with Diane Prusha , who has played over 20 seasons at Shakespeare & Company .
The highlight of Chester Theatre ’ s season is the world premiere of Unreconciled ( July 4 – 14 ) by Jay Sefton and Mark Basquill , directed by Barry . This powerful play delves into a story based on Sefton ’ s true-life experience as an adolescent actor in a play directed by a sexually abusive priest . Sefton ' s solo performance offers an unflinching portrayal of survival and reconciliation on all levels , resonating with heartfelt passion . Audience members who witnessed last year ' s midseason workshop of Unreconciled praised its power and authenticity .
" The rehearsal and workshopping process was transformative for me ," reflects Sefton , who is also a licensed mental health counselor . " Working closely with James helped me tap into the creative confidence I needed to embody the characters and tell my story ." Sefton navigates the challenges of portraying multiple characters , each with direct ties to his own traumatic experiences . " It ' s a journey of discovery ," he says . " Each character has their own voice and presence , and finding the truth in their stories is challenging and cathartic ."
Barry commends Sefton ' s remarkable dedication and emotional depth in bringing Unreconciled to life on stage . " Jay ' s commitment to authenticity and his willingness to share his story demonstrate true artistic resilience .” Reflecting on Unreconciled , Sefton says , " This play is not just about my own experiences ; it ' s about giving voice to those who have been silenced and reclaiming our narratives . It ' s about healing and empowerment , both for myself and for others who have undergone similar traumatic experiences ."
Bill Bowers will take the stage in It Goes Without Saying ( July 18 – 19 ), a captivating autobiographical tour de force . Through mime and storytelling , Bowers shares his remarkable journey from growing up as a queer young man in Montana to his adventures on Broadway and studying with Marcel Marceau . Continuing the seasonal lineup of world premieres at Chester Theatre is Will Sacrifice ( July 25 – August 4 ). Written by Julie McKee and directed by Keira Naughton , the play stars Ken Cheeseman , who has appeared in film favorites such as Shutter Island and Mystic River , and Catherine Lloyd Burns , who starred in Malcolm in the Middle and Search Party . The play centers around a woman ’ s quest for a fresh start , which leads her to the post-9 / 11 real estate boom in the Catskills . While there , she enlists the help of Mr . Sunshine to fulfill her dreams . What unfolds is a comedic exploration of marriage , ambition , and the pursuit
of happiness in a changing world .
Closing out the season is the American premiere of Tom Wells ’ Big Big Sky ( August 8 – 18 ). Directed by James Warwick and set in Kilnsea , East Yorkshire , the play follows Angie and Lauren as they navigate love , friendship , and family against the backdrop of nature ' s influence . Barry stars in this tender exploration of loss and connection , reminding audiences that even in the most remote of places , there is hope to be found .
Great Barrington Public Theater greatbarringtonpublictheater . org ; 413-717-1768
Great Barrington Public Theater ( GBPT ) is gearing up for a summer season that includes three premieres showcasing the vibrant talent of local artists while delighting audiences with fresh , compelling narratives . The season begins with Dog People ( May 31-June 16 , Liebowitz Black Box Theater , Great Barrington ), a radiant comedy penned by esteemed actor and playwright Leigh Strimbeck . Developed as part of the Berkshire Voices playwriting cohort , Dog People follows the whimsical journey of two dog enthusiasts whose four-legged friends play matchmaker in their quest for love .
Julie Bell , Wave , 2013 © Julie Bell
Holiday 2023 BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE // 39