"The Man Who Came to Dinner" - Interview #5

   For our fifth interview with the cast of The Man Who Came to Dinner, let's hear from the beautiful and talented Joanna Berner.

   She plays the part of a movie star who has no scruples, and joins "The Man" (as in the title character) in a plot to undo an unexpected romance.

   Here's Joanna:

Q: Tell us the basic story of the comedy The Man Who Came to Dinner.
Joanna: The Man Who Came To Dinner is a classic comedy set in Mesalia, Ohio, in the 1930s at Christmastime.  Famous radio personality Sheridan Whiteside falls victim to a patch of ice outside the door of the Stanley family home and is forced to stay put through the holiday. Throughout the play, Mr. Stanley becomes increasingly unhappy with his houseguest, Whiteside’s secretary falls in love, and the audience meets a cast of eccentric characters.

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Joanna: I play Lorraine Sheldon - glamorous actress and friend of Whiteside.

Q: What's your favorite part of the show?

Joanna: I can’t tell you my favorite moments in the show without spoiling the plot for you!

Q: What's your background in theatre?

Joanna: I've been involved in theatre most of my life. I started doing children's theatre with ACTC, the Backstage Players and in school. I graduated with a BFA from the University of Kentucky in 2005. I teach theatre arts workshops for the Paramount Arts Center (in addition to appearing in Paramount Players productions) and I've been involved with a number of local theatre groups since moving back to Ashland in 2008. I am currently part of the 2013 ARTS Resident Acting Company.

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

Joanna: Because I love classic comedies with big casts and witty dialogue! I wanted to work with all the talented people involved in the production - on and offstage.

Q: Why would you recommend this show to our readers?

Joanna: The Man Who Came To Dinner is incredibly well-written and full of witty dialogue. It’s also full of wonderful, eccentric characters (played by my talented castmates), wearing great costumes, and acting on a beautiful set. If none of that piques your interest, there’s also a sarcophagus.

Q: Tell us the dates, times and place for the show.

Joanna: Come join us at ARTS! Friday and Saturday night at 8 p.m., tickets are $10. If you are interested in dinner and show contact ARTS at 304-733-2787 - there are still a few spots left for Saturday’s dinner!

   Thanks, Joanna! And thanks to Stephen Vance for the photo!