A Classic Theatre will stage its first show of 2023, “Sylvia” by A.R. Gurney, in March. And the production will double as an opportunity to learn more about a local group that rescues animals facing euthanasia.
“Sylvia” is a modern romantic comedy about a man, a woman and a Labradoodle.
It’s the story of Greg, a financial trader who hates his job and is going through a mid-life crisis — that is, until one day while at the park he encounters Sylvia, a dog of mixed breeds. Sylvia is homeless, so Greg adopts her, believing that she is the answer to his problems. The question becomes: Who rescued whom?
But this energetic, and occasionally troublesome, mutt soon becomes a major “bone of contention” between Greg and his wife, Kate, a school teacher. Kate sees Sylvia as a rival for Greg’s affection.
“Sylvia” has been called “a funny, poignant, reflective look at ourselves and the importance of the bonds that keep us grounded.”
Joseph Stearman (“August: Osage County,” “The Grapes of Wrath,” “Harvey”) of Jacksonville plays Greg. Jessica Racaniello, a recent transplant from Connecticut and local actor (“August: Osage County,” “Dial M for Murder”) plays Kate. And Cameron Maxwell (“The Tempest,” “The Revolutionists”), a recent graduate from Flagler College with a B.A. in theater arts, plays Sylvia. Rounding out the cast is singer David Abraham (“Shorts and Giggles,” “Lullaby of Broadway”), who showcases his range by playing three diverse roles: a philosophical dog-lover in the park, a former Vassar classmate of Kate's and an androgynous marriage counselor.
But “Sylvia” will be more than a stage production.
A Classic Theatre is teaming with the local rescue organization SAFE (Saving Animals from Euthanasia) to highlight the need for saving animals from dire circumstances.
SAFE will have a table at each performance to provide information, photos of pets in need of adoption and fostering and opportunities to donate. As “Sylvia” revolves around a dog rescue of sorts, Glo MacDonald, marketing director of A Classic Theatre, thought this would be a good match.
“I’m a big supporter of SAFE, and I volunteer with them all the time,” said MacDonald, who has two rescue dogs herself.
Patrons with rescue pets are encouraged to bring a photo of their pets to post on the Wall of Whiskers during performances. Alternately, photos can be mailed to The Waterworks, 184 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine, where A Classic Theatre will present “Sylvia.”
Founded in 2008, SAFE has rescued more than 27,000 pets.
“We just wanted to give them some visibility,” MacDonald said.
Interest in “Sylvia” has been high. MacDonald said a lot of people have been asking her when tickets will be available.
Performances will be 7:30 p.m. March 3, 4, 10 and 11; and 2 p.m. March 5 and 12.
The Waterworks is available through the support of the City of St. Augustine and the St. Johns Cultural Council.
For more information and to purchase tickets, go to aclassictheatre.org.
For more information on SAFE, call 904-460-0556 or go to safe-pet-rescue-fl.com.
