Smiles courtesy of Misfits

Everyone is invited to enjoy a performance of "A Simple I Do Will Do (or) Another Dowry, If You Please," presented by The Dayton Misfits Theater group.

This sixth-season opener features in true melodrama style, the misadventures of heroine Goody Glen, played by Amy Wachtel who finds herself married to the villain Ferule Fleetfeet, played by Steve Whiteside.

"This is an old play redone many times," said director Carol Bauer. "In traditional melodramatic fashion, the audience will be encouraged to boo and cheer; to participate in the show."

This first play of the year will be dedicated to Tony Thornburg, one of The Misfits' founding members, who recently died following a long illness.

"The show must go on," Bauer said. "And that's how Tony would want it, but certainly this will be dedicated to Tony and we'll give the best performance ever."

"A Simple I Do," opens Friday, April 9, with additional performances on April 10, 16 and 17. All shows begin at 7 p.m. and take place at Odeon Hall on Pike Street in Dayton.

The Misfits performers range in experience from beginner to professional, but all bring heart and passion to the parts they play.

Andra Woolman, who plays as Olivia Phartmoor, started with the group in 2004, with her son Jeremy, who died in 2006.

"Tony wrote the part of Jeremy Trueblue to honor him and that so endeared me that I have stayed with it," she said. "It's a lot of work, but also a lot of fun."

"We're here because we're extroverts," said Mary Wilson, who brings the role of sweet Fannie Phartmor to life. "We all enjoy this, we take it seriously and we help each other."

Mark McGyver is a professional actor of many years, who also works for Nevada Casting, the Reno-based movie casting company, and also one of The Misfits' founders.

"I'm excited about this show," said McGyver, who is usually cast in the role of villain, but for this show is hero Adonian Twoshoes.

Taking on the challenge of character development for the good guy has been a challenge, he said, but one he's enjoyed.

"I never thought I would be involved in melodrama, but I'm happy to be here," he said. "The best part is the audience, because we get to play with them, make them laugh and allow them to forget their troubles for a while and of course, we're actors so we love the instant gratification."

Wachtel started with the group last winter and is the newest member.

"I thought it was something I'd like to do and had been to many performances," she said. "As part of the audience I was very proud of these Dayton folks who were working really hard and taking their personal time to do this for their community."

The community has supported the theater group since its inception, Bauer said, adding the monies raised have supported a variety of community organizations.

"When you buy a ticket to a show, you're also helping the community," she said. "We've been able to support some very worthy groups."

Beverages will be available for purchase and tickets cost $10, available on a first-come, first-served basis, or can be reserved by calling 775-246-9622.