"Father of the Bride" has universal themes that audiences should recognize, said show co-director Aili Smith.
"It's a dated play from the 1950s (but) an older generation might relive some moments from the past and the younger generation can certainly just find humor in all the craziness that goes on in wedding planning," Smith said.
Smith took over directing duties when co-director Conrad Davidson stepped down for health reasons.
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Terry J. Aman/MDN - - Kelly Thom as Mrs. Banks, left, confronts Ryan Haider as Mr. Banks in the title role of the Mouse River Players production of “Father of the Bride.”
The Mouse River Players will perform Caroline Francke's play at 7:30 p.m. today, Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. Sunday in the Arlene Theater in downtown Minot. Admission is free for season ticket holders or $10 at the door. Reservations can be made by calling (866) 667-1977.
Ryan Haider, who plays the title character, said parents ought to be able to identify with the emotions of his character, Stanley Banks. Mr. Banks feels insecure and is fearful of the coming changes "just knowing that his protected and very beloved daughter is going to be running off with someone he's never met before ... or that's how he feels."
Haider said the play is slightly different from the movie based upon it that many people have probably seen. The daughter, Kay Banks, comes in one day, tells her family she's getting married and introduces her father to the soon-to-be groom. The play is
about planning for the wedding, which the father has to pay for.
The cast includes Haider as Mr. Banks, Kelly Thom as Mrs. Banks, Brittany Knickerbocker as Kay Banks, Thomas Burke as Ben Banks, Alex Schoenberg-Carton as Tommy Banks, Anthony Anderson as Buckley Dunstan, the groom; John Salling as Buzz Taylor; Breanna Benson as Peggy Swift, Kena Davidson as Delilah; Sarah Thom as Miss Bellamy; C.J. Leigh as Mr. Massoula; Tim Knickerbocker as Joe; Courtney DuPona as Mrs. Pulitzki, Miles Way as Red; Danny Knickerbocker as Pete; Ceecy Nucker as Tim's assistant.