Keizer play offers zany message about honesty

In an upcoming Keizer play, people can watch a man attempt to avoid being caught lying.

Keizer Homegrown Theatre will perform the comedy “Playing Doctor” during the last three weekends in April, opening Friday, April 10.

The play follows Rob Brewster, who used money his parents provided for medical school to become a writer. When his parents decide to visit, Rob enlists the help of actors to maintain the ruse that he is a doctor.

According to the theater’s press release, this triggers “a night of escalating misunderstandings, clever improv, and broad comic timing.”

Performances will be held Friday through Sunday each weekend at the theater, located in the Keizer Cultural Center. Shows begin at 7 p.m, and Sunday performances will begin at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $15, and can be found on the theater’s website. Those with an Oregon Trail card receive free admission.

Tavis Evans will perform as Rob. Other cast members include Thya Robinson, Nathaniel Pierce, Robert Henry, Cathy Willoughby, Andy Bednarz, Elizabeth Ming and Doug Wentz.

The play will mark the theater’s first full-production performance of the season, which began in February. Director Jeremy Clubb said rehearsals began in late February, and the actors started working with scripts last fall.

Clubb described the play as “ridiculous” and “zany” with a message of honesty.

“There may be tough conversations and truth may hurt, but in the long run it’s better for everyone,” Clubb said.

From left: Andy Bednarz, Tavis Evans and Robert Henry rehearse Keizer Homegrown Theatre’s upcoming production, “Playing Doctor.” The play follows Rob Brewster, played by Evans, who became a writer using money gifted from his parents for medical school. (Keizer Homegrown Theatre)

Robert Henry (left) and Nathaniel J. Pierce rehearse upcoming Keizer Homegrown Theatre production, “Playing Doctor.” Performances will take place during April. (Keizer Homegrown Theatre)

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