Scheming for Laughs at Francine's Will

There’s a whole lot of scheming going on at the Ankeny Community Theatre, which audiences will be sure to enjoy come this April when they see Francine’s Will, written by Mary Datillo and published by Playscripts, Inc.

The scheming ensues after the death of Francine Faraday when she leaves her entire estate to her long-time companion H.P. Manley. Her loyal staff members must protect him when Francine’s greedy relatives learn that they can inherit the fortune for themselves if H.P. dies of “natural” causes. What follows is a comical twist of counter-plots and mixed-up romances that director Barb Wagner and cast are sure audiences are going to love.

Since February, the cast has been working together to bring the show to life.

Nicole Titus of Ankeny, who was recently in the theatre’s February production of Adam’s Eve is enjoying the task of bringing to life the character of Cecily Monroe, the bubbly, innocent maid. “I am having a really great time figuring out who Cecily is, what she sounds like, and how she moves.” Titus has also helped out with the building and painting process, completely immersing herself in every aspect of the production.

Lauren Stratton of Ankeny was intrigued by the play’s description, leading to her audition and eventual casting as Roxanne Howard, the smart, sarcastic secretary. “I read the character descriptions and that sparked my interest because they are all so different. I knew it had to be a funny show if all those different characters were thrown together on one stage,” says Stratton.

One of those very different characters include Stanley Lawson, the money-grubbing schemer whose plans never work out quite as expected, played by Shawn Pavlik of Ankeny. “In my last show at ACT, I was the ‘responsible slave’ Hysterium [in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum]. This is pretty far removed from that role. I enjoy playing diverse and comedic roles, and this will be a good challenge.” Pavlik also enjoys working with the director, Barb Wagner. “She gives us some freedom to make suggestions, and then goes with what she feels is best.”

The cast is having a wonderful time working together. As for their hopes of what the audience takes away from the performances, Stratton and Pavlik aren’t scheming here. “I just want the audience to be able to tell that we put our hearts and souls into making a good, fun production,” says Stratton. Pavlik follows up with, “I just hope they have a great time, and I think they will. We have an awesome cast, and they are well-suited to their roles.”

Other cast members include Mike Kentopp, Frances Paterik, Stacie Bendixen, Mark Tuttle, Joel Anderson, and Alexis Beyer. 

Audiences can see Francine’s Will beginning April 10 and lasting through April 26. Show times are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 PM, and Sunday matinees at 2 PM. Ticket prices are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $10 for students (K-12 or college with student ID). Reservations can be made at www.ankenycommunitytheatre.com or a message can be left at the phone number 515-964-5007.

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