Wine County Theatre company to present ‘And the Winner Is’
Greg DeMartini as Tyler Johnes and Russel Snow as Seamus in Wine Country Theatre’s production of And The Winner Is. A play written by Mitch Albom presented at SLOCTE Encore Center in beautiful downtown Paso Robles.
Production runs Fridays, Saturdays, and Sunday matinees through April 26
– Wine Country Theatre will present the comedic play “And the Winner Is” from April 10 through April 26 at The Encore Center, 1030 Railroad St., Paso Robles.
The play, written by Mitch Albom, tells the story of Tyler Johnes, a movie star known for the “Chippen-Cop” film franchise, who receives an Academy Award nomination and dies the night before the awards ceremony. The story follows Johnes as he attempts to find out if he wins, navigating a holding station between Earth and heaven that resembles an Irish bar. The character makes a deal with a bartender, who serves as a heavenly gatekeeper, to return to Earth for the awards. The story includes Johnes’ agent, acting rival, girlfriend, and ex-wife as part of the narrative.
Six actors from San Luis Obispo County perform in the production. Greg de Martini of San Luis Obispo plays Tyler Johnes. Geoff Higgins of San Miguel portrays Kyle Morgan, a competing nominee from the same film. Russ Snow of Arroyo Grande plays the bartender and gatekeeper. Edgar De La Cruz of Paso Robles portrays the agent, while Brianna Ontiveros, also of Paso Robles, plays Serenity. Amanda Thompson of Atascadero plays Johnes’ wife.
Performances are scheduled for Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday matinees during the run.
Director Cynthia Anthony said, “This comedy is like a modern-day morality tale, a fantasy told with humor and warmth. This hilarious story of the insatiable ego of a famous actor and an unusual event that helps him to reflect upon his life 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.”
Anthony added, “It’s a spoof on Hollywood values and the very human need for approval and recognition. It’s good to look and to laugh at ourselves – that is what theatre is for.”
The Encore Center is a community educational and performing space in Paso Robles, operating in partnership with the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education and the SLO CTE Foundation.
