Theatre Artists Company to open its 2009 season
AMANA — The Iowa Theatre Artists Company opens its 2009 Season in its home in Amana on Thursday, April 16, with the one-woman show “The Lady With All The Answers.”
Based on the life and letters of Ann Landers, David Rambo’s play has been produced in cities across the countries which include Los Angeles, Chicago, Minneapolis, Pittsburgh and Cleveland. The ITAC production marks its Eastern Iowa premiere.
Originally produced by The Old Globe in San Diego, “The Lady With All The Answers” revolves around Sioux City native Eppie Lederer, born Esther Pauline Friedman, who is best known as advice columnist “Ann Landers.” On a night in late June of 1975, Ann Landers faces a looming deadline as she attempts to write “the most important column” of her career.
As she shares her struggles to complete the column, the audience learns as much about themselves as they do about the wise, funny, no-nonsense woman whose daily dialogue with America helped shape the social and sexual landscapes of the last half-century.
Due to mature content, this play is not recommended for young audiences.
Iowa actress, Meg Merckens takes on the role of Eppie/Ann Landers in this production filled with humor, reflection and the straightforward, down-to-earth approach of one of the most famous advice columnists of the 20th century. The play is directed by Rachael Lindhart of Iowa City, and the set is designed by Thomas P. Johnson of South Amana. Merckens and Johnson are co-founders and co-producers of the Iowa Theatre Artists Company, now in
its second season.
The show runs April 16 through May 10. Performances are Thursday at 1:30 p.m and 7:30 p.m; Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Tickets may be reserved in the new 102-seat theater, located in the center of Amana next to the Visitors Center and the Festhalle, by calling (319) 622-3222. A “Talk Back with the Cast and Crew” will take place
following every Thursday and Sunday matinee. For more information, visit www.iowatheatreartists.org.