NEWBERG, Ore. — Gather Repertory Theatre will mark its fifth year of productions with a staging of “Melancholy Play: A Contemporary Farce,” opening Feb. 26 at the Chehalem Cultural Center’s Black Box Theater.
The production, written by Sarah Ruhl and directed by JeanneAnn Faris Comiskey, runs Feb. 26–28 and March 4–8. Performances will take place at the cultural center, 415 E Sheridan St., with evening shows beginning at 7:30 p.m. and matinees at 2 p.m. on March 1 and March 8.
The Newberg-based theater company said the production reflects its continued focus on community-centered storytelling as it enters its fifth season.
According to Gather Repertory, “Melancholy Play” follows Tilly, a woman whose sadness attracts admiration from those around her. When she suddenly becomes happy, her relationships unravel, prompting a comedic exploration of identity, emotional attachment, and desire. The play blends elements of melodrama and farce, using exaggerated characters and improbable situations to examine human connection.
The production is recommended for audiences ages 13 and older due to mature themes related to romantic relationships and mental health.
Performances will be held in the cultural center’s Black Box Theater, with seating limited to 30 people per show. The theater company said the smaller capacity is intended to create an intimate audience experience and allow closer proximity between performers and attendees.
Scenic designer Julianne Bodner developed the set using detailed planning tools, including mood boards and scale models, while costume designer Abby Weinman drew inspiration from fashion spanning the 1920s through the 1970s.
The cast includes Ella Noel as Tilly, Skylar Bastedo as Frank, Kelsea Vierra Ashenbrenner as Frances, Shanon Keehn as Joan, Tony Mendez as Lorenzo the Unfeeling, and Olivia Cheser as Julian.
Tickets are available online. Patrons requiring wheelchair accessibility may contact the Chehalem Cultural Center at boxoffice@chehalemculturalcenter.org.
