Celebrate Derby Day In Somers Point With Interactive 'Living Movie'

SOMERS POINT, NJ — Are you a Kentucky Derby fan? Enjoy Derby Day this Saturday in a different way - as part of an interactive "living movie."

“Derby Day” is a live production based on a film script by Cape May’s award-winning playwright Bill Sterritt. Presented by SPQR Stage Company, the rom-com is set against the backdrop of the Kentucky Derby. The performance begins at 3 p.m. May 7, Derby Day, at Studio;Space in Somers Point. It will be followed by a live viewing of the actual Kentucky Derby at 6 p.m. The event will also be streamed live behind a paywall for an additional fee.

"This ‘living movie’ of ‘Derby Day’ will have actors, costumes, props, and an exciting horse race of its own," Sterritt said in a release. He was the recipient of the Second Place award at the South Coast Repertory Play Contest and was a finalist at the Eugene O'Neill National Playwrights Conference. "As comedy, kisses and chaos ensue, and this race blends into a live viewing of the actual Kentucky Derby, guests will be treated to a few intriguing surprises."

"Derby Day" finished in the top 20 percent at the Austin Film Festival in 2021.

There will also be a step-and-repeat for guests to take selfies and post on social media with the hashtag #DerbyDaySPQRStyle. Guests are strongly encouraged to dress in their Derby Day finest – especially hats or fascinators, as there will be a "Best Hat" competition with prizes presented between the two Derbys. Mocktails will also be available on sale.

"The best way to understand what this live movie is all about is to be here on Derby Day – you won’t be disappointed," said Sterritt. "We are changing the landscape of live entertainment in South Jersey."

"Derby Day" runs 3 p.m. Saturday, May 7. The event runs through the viewing of the Kentucky Derby.

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased in advance through Eventbrite.com or at the door on the day
of. For those who can’t attend in person, the full event can be streamed for $20. For more
information and reservations, call 323-793-2153 or spqrstageco@aol.com. Studio;Space is at 112
Woodland Ave. in Somers Point, across from The Crab Trap.