Kingfisher Days
by Martin Brady
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Local premieres are always a source for rejoicing in Nashville, so it's especially rare for a Music City theater company--in this case, the Tennessee Women's Theater Project--to host a United States premiere. Canadian actress/writer Susan Coyne, co-creator of the cult-hit TV series Slings and Arrows, first published her memoir Kingfisher Days in 2002. The book, adapted for the Toronto stage in 2003, garnered excellent reviews and an audience devoted to the magical story of a friendship between a lonely little girl on summer vacation and an elderly neighbor who creates for her a magical friend via letters written by a "displaced" fairy named Nootsie Tah. Coyne's story draws upon her own memories and conveys a warmth and sense of wonder that should have wide appeal across generations. In accommodating this first American production, the author has offered TWTP the benefit of additional insight into the play and production advice. She even shared family photos of the real people and places that inspired her work. Maryanna Clarke directs the strong three-person cast, which includes Holly Allen, Buddy Raper and Jennifer Richmond.
Fridays, Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2:30 p.m. Starts: Sept. 12. Continues through Sept. 28, 2008
Fridays, Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2:30 p.m. Starts: Sept. 12. Continues through Sept. 28, 2008
