Interactive 'Living Movie' Celebrates Derby Day In Somers Point

SOMERS POINT, NJ — Can't make it to King Charles III's coronation? Didn't get tickets to the Kentucky Derby? Find your most outrageous hat and head on down to studio;space in Somers Point on May 6 for the return of "Derby Day," SPQR Stage Company's Kentucky Derby-themed "living movie."

"Derby Day" returns for its second year at 3 p.m., and is followed by a live viewing of the actual Kentucky Derby at 5:51 p.m.

The show is a rom-com that revolves around a rivalry between three powerful horseracing syndicates: a female owner-and-horse team; last of the Kentucky bluegrass breeders; and the most famous trainer ever in Derby history. Audiences will laugh while learning which owner is in financial duress, which jockey has a crush on whom, and which horse will ultimately win the "Run for the Roses."

Based on a film script by Somers Point playwright Bill Sterritt, "Derby Day" includes a wide range of actors, including Strathmere's Ellen Cheney who performed in SPQR's sold-out "New Works Weekend" this winter.

"We received such wonderfully positive feedback for this unique event last year, that we're thrilled to bring 'Derby Day' back to Somers Point audiences," said Sterritt. "Get ready for some excitement on May 6th. It'll be a day for horses, His Highness, and hats."

Sterritt received the 2nd Place award at the South Coast Repertory Play Contest and was a finalist at the Eugene O'Neill National Playwrights Conference. "Derby Day" also finished in the Top 20 percent at the Austin Film Festival competition in 2021.

Aside from the living-movie of the Kentucky Derby, the event will feature a step-and-repeat selfie station for guests to post on social media with the hashtag #SPQRDerbyDa. SPQR encourages guests to dress in their Derby Day finest and be sure to BYOB.

"Derby Day" begins 3 p.m. Saturday, May 6. The event includes the viewing of the real Kentucky Derby. Snacks and refreshments be served during the race. Advanced tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite.com or at SPQR's booth at Bayfest in Somers Point on April 29 for $20, and at the door.

"Derby Day" can also be streamed for $20. For info and reservations, call 323-793- 2153 or spqrstageco@aol.com. Studio;Space is at 112 Woodland Ave., Somers Point, across from The Crab Trap.