Wine Country Theatre stages ‘And the Winner Is’
Local cast performs Mitch Albom comedy in Paso Robles
– Wine Country Theatre in Paso Robles presents the comedic play “And the Winner Is” April 10 through April 26 at The Encore Center, 1030 Railroad Street, Paso Robles.
The play is written by Mitch Albom, whose works include “Tuesdays with Morrie” and “The Five People You Meet in Heaven.”
The story follows Tyler Johnes, a self-obsessed movie star known for the “Chippen-Cop” franchise, who is nominated for an Academy Award but dies the night before the ceremony. Determined to find out if he wins, he ends up in a holding station between Earth and heaven that resembles an Irish bar. He bargains with the bartender, Seamus, a heavenly gatekeeper, to return to Earth for the awards. His agent, his acting rival, his girlfriend, and his ex-wife are drawn into the journey.
Six actors from San Luis Obispo County perform in the play. Greg de Martini of San Luis Obispo plays Tyler Johnes. Geoff Higgins of San Miguel plays Kyle Morgan, Tyler’s competitor who is nominated for the same award. Russ Snow of Arroyo Grande plays Seamus, the Irish bartender and heavenly gatekeeper. Edgar De La Cruz of Paso Robles portrays Tyler’s Hollywood agent. Brianna Ontiveros, also of Paso Robles, plays Serenity, Tyler’s girlfriend. Amanda Thompson of Atascadero plays Tyler’s wife.
“This comedy is like a modern-day morality tale, a fantasy told with humor and warmth,” said director Cynthia Anthony. “It will make you laugh, think, and be grateful for the special people in your life. The message to discover the things that really matter in life will resonate with everybody.”
The show runs Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through April 26. The Encore Center is a community educational and performing space operating in partnership with the SLO CTE Foundation and the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education.
For tickets and more information, visit www.winecountrytheatre.org.
