Bowie Community Theatre Opens 45th Season with Language or Angels

The adventurous theatergoer will discover an unconventional drama at Bowie Playhouse in Naomi Izuka’s Language of Angels that opens on July 22 at 8 pm and continues weekends Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm through August 6 with 2 pm matinees on Sundays July 24 and 31.

Chosen to start its 45^th season, this play selected by Bowie Community Theatre resembles a series of interwoven ghost stories open to various interpretations by viewers.  Set in a cave where there are multiple levels of darkness, Language of Angels is a work that artistically challenges the cast and production staff while creating 90 continuous minutes of riveting entertainment for audiences.

Set in rural North Carolina, the story is told in recollections of friends reliving their teen pasts filled with drinking and partying that resulted in the mysterious disappearance of their friend Celie in the depths of a cave.  In flashbacks each of Celie’s friends gives a unique interpretation of what happened to her, and we discover how Celie’s friends had their lives changed by this tragedy.

In his Director’s Notes Terry Averill tells us that “the intertwining memories of the event told across decades are from characters who may or may not have died as a result of this childhood experience” and later Averill adds “those who survived seem permanently damaged as a result of these events.”  In addition to serving as director, Averill also has assumed the demanding job of set designer, where his architect background serves him well.

Crucial to the success of this production is the sensitive lighting design of Garrett Hyde that heightens both the play’s mystery and drama.  Also of major importance is the sound design by Kevin Garrett.

Among the nine actors in the cast, even those seen briefly impress us.  Samantha Alagna as Kendra who left town to create a new life conveys how she remained haunted by this tragic incident of her teen years.

In the role of Seth, Ben Brunnschweiler serves as a kind of narrator and early on sets the tone for the play, and he also interacts credibly with other cast members.

As the lost Celie, Shanice Jones is hauntingly alive and wildly free before conveying her character’s spirituality in her brief but powerful portrayal of the doomed central character.   

Chris Schenk is fascinatingly enigmatic as good-natured, non-judgmental Michael, a fearless character who reminds everyone of Tommy and may actually be an angel.

Bridget Arvidson is lovely, innocent and needy as Allison, who is mistreated by boyfriend Billy.

As troubled Billy who is often brutish, Justin Truesdale is multi-faceted conveying a distrust of Michael along with his deep friendship for Tommy, who Michael resembles.

Playing Danielle, the role with the most lines and requiring the most character growth is Kaeti Bradley who conveys every aspect of this intriguing character.

The forecast of a sweltering weekend makes a trip to cool White Marsh Park where fabulous Bowie Playhouse is hidden worthy of consideration.  Add in the excitement of discovering drama that will capture your imagination and maybe even frighten you adds up to an inviting prospect for adventurous adults.  All of this can be found at bargain prices of $17 general admission and $12 for seniors age 62 and above. 

For reservations and information BCTheatre.com or call 301-805-0219.