The 'Rumors' are spreading

The Alexandria Area Arts Association (AAAA) will present the Neil Simon farce Rumors February 8, 9, 15 and 16 at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday matinees February 10 and 17 at 2 p.m. at the AAAA Theatre, downtown Alexandria.

Directed by Ann Hermes, this comedy takes place at the townhouse of New York City deputy mayor Charles Brock and his wife, Myra. They are celebrating their 10th anniversary, but before the guests arrive, he shoots himself in the head (just a flesh wound) and she goes missing.

Charley’s attorney Ken tries a cover-up that reaches a point of mass confusion. The couples become crazed as they try to hide information from each other and, eventually, the police.

“Rumors has all the elements of great farcical comedy: confusion, deceit, slamming doors and hilarity,” said Benjamin Klipfel, AAAA executive director.

“Audiences will be treated to an intellectual work-out keeping the ever-growing cover-up stories straight,” added Hermes. “From the talented cast to the well-crafted story, this show is a delight to direct.”

Rumors opened on Broadway in 1988, won a Tony award for Best Featured Actress in a Play for Christine Baranski, and ran for 535 performances. It is one of Neil Simon’s most famous works.

Rumors is intended for a mature audience and contains strong and profane language.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for seniors and can be purchased in advance at the AAAA box office at (320) 762-8300. The production is sponsored in part by H Boyd Nelson.

CAST AND CREW

Ken Gorman - David Thompson

Chris Gorman - Nancy Klepetka

Lenny Ganz - Jon Provance

Claire Ganz - Sherry Bruckner

Ernie Cusak - Kip Sundlee

Cookie Cusak - Jamie Sandberg

Glen Cooper - Chuck Grussing

Cassie Cooper - Rachel Barduson

Officer Pudley - Deb Long

Officer Welch - Carol Wenner

Set design/construction - John Thalmann

Costume design - Nancy Berns

Prop design - Hilary Parker

Lighting design - Quincy Roers

Light/sound technician - Matthew Kriedeman

Tags: variety, entertainment, theater