Neil Simon’s “Fools” opens at PJC Nov. 8
Published or Revised November 05, 2012
In “Fools,” by Neil Simon, Ukrainian villagers cursed with stupidity welcome the new schoolteacher, as played, from the left, by Justin Cox, Lucas Robertson and Leah Maxson. In this scene rehearsal, the teacher brings “whitefish,” actually flowers, that he purchased from the local fish vendor who was too stupid to tell the difference between fish and flowers.
Idiocy, romance and laughs are on tap starting Thursday evening, Nov. 8, at Paris Junior College's Ray Karrer Theater, with the opening of "Fools" by Neil Simon.
"It's a good laugh," said PJC student Justin Cox, who plays Dr. Zubritsky. "With finals coming up, this will be a good bit of R&R. I can guarantee you'll be rolling in the aisles with laughter."
The PJC Drama Department's comedy is set in a remote Ukrainian village cursed by stupidity. The arrival of a new schoolteacher sets the stage with suspense – will he be able to lift the curse and find true love?
"Our students have been working very hard on the set, costumes and rehearsals," said PJC Drama instructor and play director Alex Peevy. "We hope the community will come out and support them."
"Fools" crew consists of Stage Manager Kevin Calhoun and Assistant Stage Manager Kaytlyn Zimmer, both of Paris. Cast includes: Magistrate (time keeper) - Edward Kelley, Splendora; Slovitch (butcher) - Shayla Caldwell, Rattan, Okla.; Yenchna (vendor) - Paige Collins, Pickton; Dr. Zubritsky (Doctor) - Justin Cox, Memphis, Tenn.; Lenya Zubritsky (Wife) - Leah Maxson, Sherman; and from Paris Leon Tolchinsky (Teacher) - Lucas Robertson; Snetsky (sheep herder) - Derrick Waugh; Mishkin (postman) - Austen Naron; Sophia Zubritsky (Daughter) - Shelby Gilliam; and Gregor Yousekevitch (evil doer) - Ryan Box.
The show is Nov. 8-10 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 11 at 2 p.m. in the Ray Karrer Theater in the Administration Building on the northwest corner of campus. Tickets are $5 general admission or free with PJC ID. For more information call 903-782-0488.
