ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) – Signs of dementia, along with a complicated relationship with his daughter make an annual trip to a summer home in Maine bittersweet for Norman Thayer.
Just like the film version, the play “On Golden Pond” blends heartbreak with humor.
David Walton plays Norman.
“So, it’s really a family story. Awful lot of humor in it, because often grumpy old men are funny, especially when you have a wife who’s trying to run interference with everything. But I think you’re going to see a family story with an awful lot of heart and a lot of hope, too,” says Walton.
The classic story will unfold, beginning Friday night, November 7 at The Bear Theatre in downtown Roanoke.
Vickie Haynie takes on the role of Norman’s wife, Ethel.
“She’s happy with life and she wants to much for her husband to be happy, and she’s beginning to understand that, um, there’s some trouble here,” says Haynie.
Both Haynie and Walton praised Bear Theatre for providing older, more mature performers an opportunity to shine on stage.
“A lot of plays are for young folks, and they’re driven by young folks. This play centers around two senior characters. And man, do we have the lines to prove it,” says Walton.
“Everyone has been so welcoming and patient with the little old lady here. So, it’s been a great, great experience for me, something I will always remember,” says Haynie.
Click here to purchase tickets.
For free parking options downtown, click here.
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