The story is almost 60 years old yet the message remains relevant. And the cast and crew presenting “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?” at the Holland Theatre this weekend hope audience members will laugh a little, cry a little, and maybe even learn something about breaking through the barriers that can come between us.
You only have two opportunities to catch this memorable performance—Saturday, Sept. 14, at 7 p.m., or Sunday, Sept. 15, at 2 p.m.
Set in 1967—and based on the Sidney Poitier/Spencer Tracy/Katherine Hepburn film of the same name—the play tells the story of two diverse families drawn together when Joanna, the white daughter of Matt and Christina Drayton, becomes engaged to John Prentice, an African-American doctor.
As the story begins, Joanna brings John home to meet her wealthy liberal parents. When she then surprises them by inviting John’s mother and father for dinner, everyone must face their own struggles and prejudices.
Seth Mitchell, who plays John, appreciates the chance to be back on the stage after a six-year hiatus. Not only that, but this time he’s performing with his mom, Tracey Mitchell, and brother Tyson Collier. The two play John’s parents, John Sr. and Mary Prentice.
This isn’t a new story for Seth, as he grew up watching the movie with Tracey, who considers it one of her favorite films. But despite how long it’s been around, he still finds it relevant.
“I hope the audience sees we all come from different walks of life,” Seth said. “No matter what your color is, everyone’s story can be told differently but with the same underlying message.”
For Sheila Whetsel, who plays the Drayton’s domestic servant “Tillie,” being involved in the show was a surprise blessing. This past June, as she grieved the death of her daughter, Sheila had an unexpected encounter.
“A young lady from my church handed me this book and said, ‘This is your outlet,’” Sheila recalled. As she read it, the play took “a deep part of my heart” with its repeated theme: “Anything can happen in 10 days.”
“This show has been a positive reflection of my daughter’s life. I needed it because grief was something new to me,” Sheila concluded.
The performance encountered some adjustments at the beginning. Originally slated to run in the spring, scheduling issues led director Kris Swisher to push the play to a later date.
Because it’s a small cast of only nine and doesn’t carry the big event draw of a musical like this past summer’s “My Fair Lady,” Swisher hopes audiences will still give this newest Windmill Production a chance.
“It doesn’t get the buzz a musical does, but it’s still our community,” Swisher said. “You don’t want to miss this one.”
You can purchase tickets for “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?” online at theholland.org/box-office, by calling 937-592-9002, in person during the theatre’s regular business hours, or at the door.