A fun-filled, action-packed, hilarity based on the television program

The Beverly Hillbillies

By Mayanna Tomaszewski and Shaylen Mann

Year after year, the Manestage Theatre Company puts on high quality, artistic productions and this year is no different. From the star-studded cast to the seamless production crew, The Beverly Hillbillies is gearing up to be a show to remember!

When Midland Oil Company strikes rich on the soil surrounding the Clampett’s cabin, Jed Clampett, being portrayed by senior, Rayden Carter, and his family pack up their duds and head for Beverly Hills. While the spry and snippy, Granny Moses, wonderfully played by senior Shaylen Mann, gorgeous tomboy Elly May, being taken on by junior Riley Jegier and the dimwitted charmer and self proclaimed playboy, Jethro, portrayed by junior Caimen McAskill get acclimated to high society living, they have to face some novel nonsense.

From the unscrupulous banker Mr. Drysdale, played by junior Bradley Schooley, to Undercover Conwoman, Emaline Fetty, portrayed by senior Mayanna Tomaszewski, there is no end to the chaos that ensues. Jam packed with hilarious deep south slang and endless amounts of culture shock, The Beverly Hillbillies is sure to impress.

The cast and crew have been working to make this show one that is unforgettable. Plowing through any challenges faced may not be an easy feat, but those challenges have proven to strengthen the company and, in turn, the show. “The hardest part is working as a team,'' revealed junior, Riley Jegier. “Part of trust is becoming a really tight family and getting to know everyone so you know just who you can rely on.” Jegier exuded that she is most excited to see the show come together because of the people, with everyone working as a collective unit.

Despite the challenges, Manestage Theatre Company always puts one thing at the forefront of every production; having fun. “There is a distinct energy that runs through the hearts of every person in that auditorium”, senior Mayanna Tomaszewski divulged. “It’s like everyone just meshes together and that’s really evident when we perform. The audience can feel the passion and I think that’s why they keep coming back.” From the very first rehearsal to the minute the final curtain closes, that magic is withheld in castmates and audience members alike, “There’s so many different interpretations of all the characters and I really like seeing how everyone can adapt and change to fit the energy of the show,'' opined senior Rayden Carter. “I know I’m not the best, and nobody ever can be, but it's always good to see the progression of the show and all of the actors.” Carter contended that Manestage has created an atmosphere filled with this passion, with something to be engulfed in. That’s what makes theatre, and this show so magical.

The Beverly Hillbillies premieres this upcoming Thursday, October 24th. The show continues through the 26th, beginning at 6:30 each performance. Tickets are $6 for students and Senior Citizens, and $8 for adults. You can purchase them online on the Mountain Range website, find a cast member to order them from, or at the door. This is a show you won’t want to miss!