MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
A marriage that appears picture-perfect takes an unexpected turn in Stage Nine's upcoming production of Grand Horizons, a comedy-drama that examines family relationships, identity and what happens when life's expectations change.
The play opens with a couple celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary before the wife, Nancy, shocks her husband by announcing she wants a divorce.
Director J.D. Bowman said the story blends humor with heartfelt moments, offering audiences both laughter and meaningful reflection.
"It's a nice comedy, kind of like a sitcom comedy, because there's a lot of jokes throughout it," Bowman said. "But then it has a nice little feel-good ending to talk about relationships, especially family relationships, and what we expect from parents and how adult children should act."
Bowman, who is from McPherson, said he was drawn to Stage Nine because of its reputation for producing thought-provoking theater rather than relying solely on musicals.
He said Grand Horizons has been a favorite of his since seeing it in an early workshop several years ago and welcomed the opportunity to bring it to Hutchinson audiences.
Jo Stropes, who portrays Nancy, said the character is searching for something missing after spending decades raising a family.
"She's lived a very full life," Stropes said. "But now that the children are gone... she's lost that connection with her husband. She really craves to have a deeper relationship with him."
Bowman said one of the play's central themes is the importance of seeing people as individuals, even after decades of marriage.
"Nancy says several times that she wants to be seen," Bowman said. "I see this relevance in wanting to stay a person and be seen by the people around her."
Although divorce serves as the catalyst for the story, Bowman said the production ultimately focuses on how families navigate change and respect one another despite differing paths.
He said audiences can expect plenty of awkward comedy alongside more emotional moments, particularly during scenes between the parents and their adult children in the second act.
Bowman credited the cast's chemistry for bringing the story to life. He said finding the right performers was his biggest challenge, but rehearsals have exceeded expectations.
"The cast that we ended up with is just amazing," Bowman said. "I'm still laughing through rehearsals because they gel really well and bring a lot of insight to their characters."
The production also features a multigenerational cast, something Bowman said reinforces one of the play's messages.
"We set up all of these things to separate us, but we're a lot more alike than we remember," he said.
Grand Horizons will be performed July 16-18 at 7:30 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on July 19 at Stage Nine in downtown Hutchinson. Tickets are available through the Stage Nine website. Admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for students.
The production contains some language and adult situations and is recommended for audiences age 16 and older.