DEFINITELY DRAMATIC: Local community theaters release lineups for 2012-13 season

RECT 29th season reflects patrons' likes

HARRODSBURG — Listening to its patrons always has been important for the personnel at Ragged Edge Community Theatre. And the patrons’ preferences can be seen in the upcoming season at the theater.

“We’ve tried to ask our patrons what they want to see,” said Tagan Citty Cox, artistic director at Ragged Edge. And overwhelmingly, they like chestnuts such as last season’s “Bus Stop” and this season’s “Harvey.”

Parents who are patrons indicated kids are involved in a lot of activities. So, instead of doing several small kids’ productions, “we’re doing fewer children’s theater offerings, but more substantial ones,” Cox said.

“We doing things they’re going to have a great experience from,” she added.

In addition, in the months where a children’s show is not scheduled, classes will be offered for children. Potential class subject matter includes beginning theater and how to audition.

Cox said she wants theater supporters and potential contributors “to step up and make donations.”

“The money from the state and local government is not there anymore,” she indicated. “We need more support from our contributors. ... Since I’ve been here, we’ve really been listening to patrons, and we hope the patrons will return in kind.

“Ragged Edge has been a staple of the community for 29 years. ... And I¿know being involved in the arts is enriching for life. We need support to continue another 30 years.”

Here is a look at the 2012-2013 season at Ragged Edge Community Theatre:

“Swingtime Canteen,” Aug. 17-19 and 24-26: It’s World War II and five songtresses decide to take their talents overseas to entertain the troops. The music includes time-appropriate standards such as “How High the Moon” and “Sing, Sing, Sing.”

“Annie Jr.,” Sept. 28-30, Oct. 5-7: In Depression Era New York, a group of orphans is headed up by a spunky girl named Annie, a remarkable girl who is determined to find the parents who abandoned her on the steps of the orphanage. When Daddy Warbuck’s secretary comes looking for a child to share Christmas at the Warbuck mansion, Annie works it so she’s chosen.

“Harvey,” Nov. 9-11 and 16-18: “Harvey” follows the whimsical story of a local drunk’s imaginary rabbit chum — who happens to be 6 feet, 3 inches tall. The play was a smash hit on Broadway and garnered a Pulitzer Prize, as well.

 “The Rainmaker,” March 8-10 and 15-17: A confident artist makes his way through the drought-devastated Southwest, promising to bring rain for $100. When he takes up residence at the Prud’homme farm, the con man works his wiles on the ugly duckling daughter, building her self-confidence until she catches the attention of a suitor.

“Little Women,” April 19-21 and 26-28: The four Alcott sisters and their beloved Marmee struggle to stay together and make ends meet while Mr. Alcott is engaged in the Civil War.

“How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” June 7-9 and 14-16: A window-washer learns the ropes from a book — “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” — and uses what he learns to climb the corporate ladder.

“The Surprising Story of the Three Little Pigs,” July 12-14: New twists are given to classic fairy tales, and a message of empowerment targets the young performers who bring the works to stage. The road from “once upon a time” to “happily ever after” will never be the same.

West T. Hill season kicks off with Orndorff play