This classic, entertaining satire, first published as a book by Ken Kesey in 1962, tells the story of an energtic con man who seeks institutionalization as a means of escaping the rigors of a prison work farm. Before long, he begins to challenge the controlling, agenda-entrenched Nurse Ratched, and irrevocably alters the destiny of those in the ward. The play attacks rules that exist without question and has a roster of complex characters. McMurphy becomes a hero but pays dearly for his individualism.

“One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest” was inspired by author Kesey's job as an orderly at a veteran's hospital and by the 1960’s counterculture movement touting such themes as freedom, rebellion and fearlessness. Dale Wasserman adapted the novel into a play in 1974, and Miles Forman directed a successful film adaptation of the novel the following year.

Directed by Joshua Theilan, G. B. Theatre’s talented cast will include Tim Dorman as “McMurphy” and Devon Shriver as “Nurse Ratched.” Also appearing will be Clay Nielsen as “Chief Bromden,” Ryan Czerwonko as “Aide Williams,” Steve Baker as “Aide Warren,” Alex VanAllen as “Nurse Flinn,” Larry Gasch as “Dale Harding and Cheswick,” Chris Nappi as Billy Bibbit,” Tom Udell as “Scanlon,” Curtiss Brown as “Martini,” Bill Baker as “Ruckly,” Mark Pendleton as “Doctor Spivey,” Ken Miller as “Mr. Turkle,” Sierra Nagy as “Candy Starr” and Leeann Taylor as “Sandra.”

A dessert bar will be held before the show on Saturday, January 13. For $3, patrons can sample as many desserts as they wish. The dessert bar includes coffee, tea and hot chocolate.

Dinner will be held before the show on January 20 for $13 plus the cost of your theater ticket. Dinner is served at 6:30 p.m. and usually includes soup or salad, entree, potato, vegetable, rolls with butter, dessert, coffee, tea and soft drinks. Dinner reservations are required by noon on Wednesday, January 17. Seating is limited and often sell out well in advance. Reservations should be made as early as possible.

For tickets or dinner reservations, phone the Arts Center at (440) 964-3396.

Tickets are on sale now!

Book by Thomas Meehan Music by Charles Strouse Lyrics by Martin Charnin

Leapin’ lizards!

The family favorite tale is back! Based upon the popular Harold Gray comic strip “Little Orphan Annie,” the original Broadway production is a seven-time Tony Award winning musical. This timeless tale of a spunky girl who dreams of a life outside the walls of the orphanage boasts one of the most treasured scores in Broadway history and includes such memorable songs as "It's the Hard Knock Life," "Easy Street," and "Tomorrow." “Annie” promises to be a delightful theatrical experience for the entire family and will give a new generation of kids the chance to experience this classic story about never giving up hope. Directed by Douglas Eric Anderson, “Annie” performances will be held at 8 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Sunday matinees will begin at 3 p.m. Get your tickets early!