“Defying Gravity” is Jane Anderson’s 1997 comedic and heartwarming tribute to the crew of the 1986 Space Shuttle Challenger STS 51-L mission. The PCT production of “Defying Gravity” is presented through the generous sponsorship of Louise W. Hagood and through special arrangement with Samuel French Inc.
“Defying Gravity” runs January 15-17 and 21-24 at the historic Plaza Theatre in Downtown Paris. Performance times are 7:30 PM Thursday through Saturday, and 2:30 PM on Sundays.
“Defying Gravity” introduces seven vibrant characters whose stories become intertwined during the days leading up to and the years following the disastrous explosion of the Space Shuttle Challenger. The characters include the Teacher, who is the first civilian chosen to fly into space, and her daughter, Elizabeth.
Also included are Ed and Betty, a retired couple who dream of traveling to the stars and C.B. and Donna, a couple who live and work in the Kennedy Space Center area. The Impressionist painter, Monet guides the audience through the story. The play is ultimately a comedy that celebrates the spirit of exploration inside all of us.
The cast features Will Walker as Monet, Christina Paolino as The Teacher, Lisa Martin as Betty, and John Presley Wright as Ed. Newcomers to the PCT stage include Amber Nelms as Elizabeth, Dakota Caraway as C.B., and Crystal Finney as Donna.
“Defying Gravity” is directed by Robyn R. Huizinga who says, “I am thrilled to be able to bring this play to the PCT stage. It is a funny and heartwarming tribute to the Challenger Seven. For many, this is a shared American experience, and we hope younger audiences will be inspired to learn more about the Challenger. This is the perfect show for the whole family.”
Information and ticket reservations are available at (903)-784-0259 or www.brownpapertickets.com. The Box Office is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 AM-3:00 PM, and is located at 36 North Plaza in Downtown Paris.
Who: Paris Community Theatre
What: “Defying Gravity,” by Jane Anderson
Where: The Plaza Theatre at 36 North Plaza, Downtown Paris
How Much: $12 for adults; $5 for students with an ID or kids under 18
How: Call (903)-784-0259, visit www.brownpapertickets.com, or e-mail pct@1starnet.com