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ACO selects Blithe Spirit's cast

As the kids would say, "Squeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!"

And somebody bring me some rust remover!

I have been cast as Violet Bradman in "Blithe Spirit," the next mainstage show at the Arts Center of the Ozarks! And I couldn't be more excited. And terrified. And thrilled. And did I mention terrified?

It's a compliment to Harry Blundell and everyone at the arts center that actors feel comfortable auditioning when they're new to the area -- as is John Jefferson, who is playing Charles Condomine -- and when they've been away from the stage for awhile. It might take more than one try to get cast, but every audition, Harry helps you get better -- and finally, it will be your turn.

Acting was my second love -- after archaeology, which involved too much dirt, bugs and potential ooh-ick. I dreamed of Broadway -- and then realized everybody I knew who had gone to New York worked as waiters. Instead, I switched my major to storytelling. The university called it journalism.

So even though I've done theater since I was 12 and made half a dozen movies, I haven't been on stage lately -- like since about 2005, when I appeared in "The Vagina Monologues" in Eureka Springs. It was a challenging and wonderful experience. But at least this time, I can tell my mom the name of the play! And she likely saw the movie when it came out in 1945.

In the original film, Rex Harrison was the unfortunate novelist whose plan to get ideas from a seance produces the spirit of his late wife, Elvira (played in the upcoming show by Abbey Edge). Madame Arcati (to be played by Judy Scott) conjures her accidentally -- and she has no idea how to get rid of this "Blithe Spirit." Neither does Condomine's current wife, Ruth (Staci Hammontree). And wackiness ensues, while Dr. Bradman (David Godwin), Edith the maid (Alissa Walter) and I look on.

I'm freaked out of my mind about learning lines and remembering blocking after all this time, but I'm more excited than scared. It's an honor to share any stage with a troupe of talented actors and especially to be on stage at ACO, a place I have always considered home.

Harry, hope I make you proud! Friends, stay tuned! Shows are April 4-6 and April 11-12.

Becca Martin-Brown is Features editor for NWA Media and an award-winning columnist.

NAN Profiles on 03/02/2014

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