Uptown Greenwood

Suspense and Humor Mix on GCT Stage

November 13, 2008

By PRUDENCE TAYLOR
Special to the Index-Journal 

Greenwood, SC - This weekend theatergoers will have a wonderful opportunity to visit the sequestered glen known as Sleepy Hollow when Greenwood Community Theatre presents its second Kids 4 Kids production, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow."

Based on the short story by Washington Irving, adapted for the stage by Bruce Hurlbut, and directed by Hope Ott and Bess Park, the play remains true to the story with a winning combination of suspense and humor.
 
Ichabod Crane, the bumbling superstitious schoolmaster, is portrayed by Campbell Wiltshire.  While the villagers compare him to a scarecrow, Ichabod sees himself as a learned and talented man.  It's a role that lends itself to comedy, and Wiltshire mines it for all its worth. 

Brom Bones, played by Brock Scott, is a boastful bully with few admirable qualities.  Brom and Ichabod are complete opposites, and the rivalry between them is all the more fun to watch as they compete for the hand of the fair Katrina, played by Alexandria Cox.  It would have been easy to Miss Cox to turn in a stereotypical performance as the prettiest girl in the glen, but she brings independence and common sense to the role of Katrina and makes it fresh and lively.

The actors in 'minor' roles stand out in this production.  Jones Pendergrass, age 11, is a GCT stage veteran, and brings the part of Jacob Tabot to life with his deadpanned portrayal of the gravedigger. Kristopher Parker, the Ghost of Knickbocker, is truly frightening.  A special nod goes to Caleb Lewis who uses physical comedy effectively in his role as Roscoe, Brom's friend and partner in pranks.

The sets designed by Bess Park, the costumes created by Robin Walenchus, and the acting by a very talented cast all combine to make "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" an amazing and enjoyable theatrical experience for adults and older children.

A word of caution to parents - this play is not suitable for most children age 5 and younger.

"The Legend of Sleepy Hollow will be performed 7 pm Friday and Saturday and 2 pm Saturday and Sunday.

For information about the play or to make reservations, call GCT at 229-5704.


For more information, contact uptown@cityofgreenwoodsc.com.

Uptown Greenwood Development Corporation
P.O.Box 202
Greenwood, SC 29648
(864) 942-8448