The North Coast Repertory Theatre begins its 32nd Season with the comedy Rumors by Neil Simon. The production opens at 8 p.m. on Thursday, September 17. At a large, tastefully appointed Sneden’s Landing townhouse, the Deputy Mayor of New York has just shot himself. Though only a flesh wound, four couples are about to experience a severe attack of Farce. Gathering for their tenth wedding anniversary, the host lies bleeding in the other room and his wife is nowhere in sight. His lawyer, Ken and wife Chris must get “the story” straight before the other guests arrive. As the confusions and mis-communications mount, the evening spins off into classic farcical hilarity.

The production is directed by Gene Cole. Cole has been active in theatre for forty years, twenty of those in Humboldt County as actor and director. He describes the play as “a farce.  It begins with rather simply, four couples coming to a friend’s home to celebrate an anniversary. Stir in an accidental gunshot, and the fun begins as well-meaning friends try to ‘fix’ the situation. Neil Simon reminds us of what our mothers told us: don’t tell fibs because you always get caught, jumping to conclusions only gets you in trouble.” The show is recommended for high school age and older.

The talented cast includes Matt Cole, Amada Slinkard, Arnold Waddell, Shelley Stewart, John Veit, Toodie Boll, Saul Tellez, Caroline McFarland and James Wright. Scenery design and lighting designs are by Liz Uhazy; and costume design by Laura Rhinehart. Morgan Thompson will stage-manage the production.

Rumors opens at 8 p.m. on Thursday, September 17 with an opening night gala that includes a champagne reception after the show. This performance will also serve as a benefit for the cast and crew. All seats for opening night are $16.00. The performance on Saturday, September 19 will be a benefit for the Humboldt Literacy Project; tickets are $20.00. Regular ticket prices of $16.00 for general admission and $13.00 for students and seniors begin on Friday, September 18. The run will continue Fridays and Saturdays through October 10. There will be one additional regular Thursday performance on October 8. All evening performances begin at 8 p.m. There will be two matinee performances at 2 p.m. on Sundays September 27 and October 4. NCRT is located at 300 Fifth Street, Eureka. For reservations, group rates, or more information, please call 442-NCRT (6278).