The curtain went up on Sunday for the La Porte Service League’s 79th annual production of "I Wish," written and produced by Kathy Sommer. The production was a success, earning laughs from both the children and adults in the audience.
The tale follows the story a fantastical group of characters whose lives fall into disarray after the Fairy Godmother takes a vacation. Their wishes fall onto the Frog, who has developed an all too common addiction to video games. The characters learn to deal with their befuddled wishes and make the best of their situations. Audience members left the theater with three morals in mind: 1. “Works comes before play” 2. “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade” and 3. “Be careful what you wish for!”
The play blends both modern-day elements and classical fairy tale themes seamlessly. The production also is enhanced with elaborate, hand-made costumes and creative and aesthetically pleasing sets.
“It was entertaining and cute!” spectator Abbi Meinhard said.
All-female cast members Claudia Raymond, Debbie Ault, Claudia Winter, Mary Ellen McCain, Lucy Vergo, Jan Edquist, Beth Mann, Rosie Flitter, Beth LeRoy, Joanne Gorecki, Gina Ake, Ramona Komasinski and Sheryl Edwards performed with animation and enthusiasm. Cindy Berchem, Kathy Calvin, Suzanne Schafer, Kathy Sommer, Ramona Komasinski, Nanda Danitschek, Julie Pitman, Sandy Gleim, Connie Kuzydym, Carol Holcomb, Lucy Vergo, Jan Martinsen, Jan Yandt, Claudia Winter and Nancy Adkins all helped with the behind-the-scenes elements that made the play possible.
“It has been a wonderful 15 years,” Joanne Gorecki said. “I truly hope the La Porte School Corporation reconsiders allowing all grades to come to the production. Being a part of theater has changed my life and it can for the kids too.”
The production will continue for the local elementary schools Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9:30 a.m. with additional shows being offered on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1:00. All are encouraged to attend the closing performance on Saturday, Feb. 2 at 9:30 am.