The reviews are in. This is a show you don’t want to miss.
Fairfield Area Community Theatre’s production of Catfish Moon, now headed into its closing weekend at the Walton Club in Fairfield November 21–23, is a tender and terrifically funny ensemble piece like few you’ve seen. Featuring four seasoned Fairfield performers, direction by Rachel Biggs, a stunning set by Lou Bolster, and an entertaining story that tugs at the heart, Catfish Moon makes for an intimate, rich, and truly rewarding night at the theater.
Written by Laddy Sartin, this lighthearted dramedy set in the American South follows four childhood friends as they navigate the complexities of adulthood at a nostalgic lakeside locale. When an unexpected event (or two) brings them back to one of their favorite fishing holes, they must confront their pasts, wrestle with the bonds between them, and reckon with the present—while rediscovering some of the simplest joys in life. Slowing down. Stargazing. And catching a big ol’ catfish, of course.
The production stars Andrew MacKenzie, David Patterson, Fred Hucke, and Celeste Siemsen—an experienced ensemble that brings plenty of physical comedy, fiery passion, and vulnerability to the table, giving audiences a run for their money as the story shifts seamlessly from heartache to hilarity and then back again—diving from belly laughs to the box of kleenex.
Longtime FACT Board Member Rachel Biggs is excited to be making her directorial debut with Catfish Moon. “I couldn’t decide between doing something really funny or something serious,” says Biggs, “but this play happens to have a bit of both. And I love the small-town, hometown energy it has.”
“As an actor, it’s been a fun challenge to find that balance between humor and sincerity,” adds Celeste Siemsen. “I’m not sure I’ve ever done a piece that has the dark and the light so intermingled.”
Remaining performances are November 21–23 at the Walton Club, 2265 Walton Lake Road. For Friday and Saturday shows, dessert (included) is served buffet-style at 7 p.m., and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday show is a matinee, with a 2:30 p.m. dessert and 3 p.m. curtain.
Tickets ($25 adults, $10 youth 18 and under) can be purchased at the door (cash, check, or Venmo) or in advance at Adela’s gift shop and the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce. Visit Facebook.com/FairfieldAreaCommunityTheatre.
