NICK GOSNELL
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Stage 9’s production of Quilters by Molly Newman and Barbara Danashek will play June 8-10 at 7:30 p.m.
There will be a single weekend of performances instead of the originally planned two.
"Each little scene is introduced with the block that's part of the quilt," said Paula Rothe, who plays Sarah in the show. "It's quite different in that it's not a story that goes on and on for the hour. It's just little vignettes of different aspects in this woman's life, Sarah."
Quilters was written by two Colorado women using seven actresses to tell the stories. The stories are based on the actual experiences of pioneer women through their journals and letters as they came west to Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, etc. The show is told through the quilt blocks and quilts that brought women together then and now. This is a show for adults.
"It's more of an adult production, because of subject matter, not because of language," said director Kris Anshutz with Stage 9. "Children die in it."
Rothe and the rest of the ensemble play many parts from children to adults. The ensemble includes Piper Harding, Diana Kiuttu, Sarah Winkler, Caroline Miller, Jo Stropes and Mallory Teufel and the musical parts are challenging.
"The women in it have just done a lovely job of being able to sing in a small ensemble setting," Rothe said.
Quilters is directed by Kris Anshutz with musical direction by Bill Anshutz. Lori Henks provides the music.
The quilt blocks and Legacy Quilt is designed by Deb Nikkel with the design brought to life by Karna Lackey of Sew In 2 Quilts. The blocks are being made by various quilters in the area.
Quilters will be June 8-10 at 7:30 p.m. with the box office opening at 6:30 and seating happening at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased on the website stage9hutch.com or at the door.
Ticket prices this year have been lowered in Stage 9's Inflation Buster campaign. Adult tickets are $20, Seniors get in for $15 and students for $10.
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