Living with the Cast

The show is over, the lights go down, the audience applauds, and the actors bow, accepting their admiration. The actors go backstage and the audience goes home. Normally that's the end of the theatre-going experience, unless you're living with the cast.

If you're like me...boyishly handsome for your age, and...living with two of the five actors currently appearing in Playhouse on Park's production of "Around the World in 80 Days." The agile Aidan O'Shea, who plays Passpartout and the accent-minded Jef Canter, who plays Sir Francis Cromarty and many other characters in this zany comedy.

You're probably wondering how these two talented actors ended up sharing my townhouse condo with me, if you're not wondering that, just go with me, you'll be glad you did. I take you back to last September, Daniel Garrison, Lighting Designer for Equus was arriving a day ahead of schedule, and in need of housing. After hearing the conversation, and inquiring about Mr. Garrison, I agreed to take him in. He stayed for eight days in my basement, and we got along great. From that point on, I was on the housing list. It wasn't until recently that the latest two requests came in.

Returning to mid August of this year, we suddenly lost our donated housing to paying renters. Executive Director Tracy Flater found out on Friday, and the cast was due to arrive the following Monday and Tuesday. "I am very grateful for all the donated housing that has been offered up to our actors over the past two years. I cannot fault the companies for wanting to take in paying tenants."

Thus began Ms. Flater's monumental quest to find suitable housing for the actors. "I was overwhelmed with how I was going to solve the problem in such a short time, with no money in the budget for housing". She adds.

The next few days Ms. Flater tirelessly devoted nearly every waking minute to solving the problem. Many e-mails and texts later, the problem was solved, she single-handedly found suitable accommodations for all the actors, two of which, as you know are living with me.

Mr. O'Shea arrived first, being that he was the first request I received. He is comfortably lodged on a mattress and box spring I dragged up from the basement to my office/second bedroom. Mr. Canter followed a couple days later, after Ms. Flater asked if I'd be willing to house an additional actor in my newly painted and carpeted basement, she went so far as to promise me a bed for him. I agreed, it was getting a bit boring all by myself, and two temporary roommates sounded like an exciting change of pace.

It's extremely gratifying when you throw caution to the wind and invite a person or persons you've never met before to live in your home. The hesitation you may feel at first will quickly dissipate, and long after they are gone, you'll realize how bad you would have felt had you let the opportunity pass you by. In between, both of you will have made a new friend, learned new things and created fond memories you can reflect on long after they are gone.

The next time the opportunity to house an actor, or anyone associated with a quality Playhouse on Park production arises, take it. You will be doing yourself and the playhouse a great service. The rewards will last a lifetime.

Now aren't you glad you went with me on this feel good story. It's such a good, feel good story that I think I'll write the touching and poignant script and option to the Oprah Winfrey Network. Now, who should play me? I wonder what that handsome guy with three names from Saved by the Bell is doing?

Around the World in 80 Days also stars Veronique Hurley, Chris Mixon & Russell Garrett. This is the last week to see this critically acclaimed comedy. Call the Playhouse on Park box office at 860-523-5900 x10. Ask about our pro-rated season subscription!