Interviews with the Cast of "The Princess of Rome, Ohio"

   Taking the stage this weekend at the Alban Center in St. Albans is The Princess of Rome, Ohio, a play created by local playwright Jonathan Joy.

   To learn more about the show and the actors involved, we have a series of interviews lined up with the cast.

   Let's start with Lisa Gandee, who plays the part of Alma. Here are her comments:

Q. Tell us the story behind The Princess of Rome, Ohio. 

Lisa: It's a story about a dysfunctional family and their small town friends. Any more info than that would give away too much!

Q. Tell us about the character you play. 

Lisa: I play Alma, Lulu's best friend. She's a nervous, fidgety woman whose future seems quite uncertain when the play opens. 

Q. Why did you want to be part of this show?

Lisa: When I read the script, I knew I wanted to be a part of this show! It has great characters, and the play itself is hilarious!

Q: What's the biggest challenge to this show?

Lisa: I had an accident at work a few weeks ago, which required me to undergo surgery. I lost about a weeks worth of rehearsal due to that. I think for me, personally that has been the biggest challenge. 

Q. Why would you recommend this show to our reader?

Lisa: If you want to see something that is going to make you laugh, this is the show for you. Each character has their own quirky way of dealing with life. Our cast has become a family and we gel together the way a cast should. 

   Thanks, Lisa! The performances will be June 28, 29, July 5 and 6 at 8 p.m. and June 30 and July 7 at 2 p.m. at The Alban Arts and Conference Center in St Albans.