BELFAST — Belfast Maskers held auditions last month for John M. Synge's celebrated play, "Playboy of the Western World." Directed by actor, director, and dialect coach Michael Toner, the renowned comic masterpiece concerns the coming of age of a young man and woman in rural Ireland around the turn of the 20th Century. The production will run from August 30 through September 8, 2024, at the Basil Burwell Community Theater, 17 Court Street in Belfast.

Toner oversaw auditions and was happy to report the turnout was good and he has assembled a great cast for the production, according to Belfast Maskers, in a news release. Greta Brown, a relative newcomer to Belfast Maskers, will play the role of Pegeen Mike Flaherty and Tyler Johnstone, a face very familiar to Midcoast audiences, will play Christy Mahon. Joining them on stage are Emily LeBlanc McConnell as The Widow Quin, Peter Conant as Old Mahon, Greg Marsanskis as Michael James Flaherty, Mark Durbin as Shawn Keogh, Tom Maycock as Philly Cullen, Tyson Hoffman as Jimmy Farrell, Ember Hoffman as Sara Tansey, Isla Hughes as Susan Brady, and Eden Hoffman as Honor Blake. Ivy Lobato is stage manager and Tom Maycock is the producer as well as playing the role of Philly.

The set was designed by celebrated scenic designer John Bielenberg, generously donating the wealth of many decades of professional, regional, and collegiate experience to Belfast's beloved community theater. Elaine Bielenberg will provide set dressing. Lighting will be designed by Zafra Whitcomb and sound design provided by Jay Rosenberg. Sandy Lehman will handle properties and Beth Zeitlin is designing costumes.

This production of "Playboy of the Western World" is poised to be a highlight of the 2024 season, offering audiences a powerful and unforgettable theater experience. Shows are nightly, Thursday through Saturday, at 7 p.m. with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.

General Admission seating is $18, with a $3 discount for students & seniors, and there is a $10 Preview Night performance on Thursday, August 29. Tickets can be purchased at http://www.belfastmaskers.com or at the door, one hour before each performance.