Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

ACT’s staging of Tennessee Williams’ Cat on a Hot Tin Roof is set to debut at The Guild in Charlottetown this month. A Pulitzer Prize-winning classic, the play delves into themes of truth, family tensions, sexual identity and human frailty against the backdrop of the 1950s American South.

This production is launching ACT’s milestone 30th anniversary season with the involvement of four of ACT’s Lifetime Members, whose contributions have been instrumental to the success of the organization’s three-decade history. Barbara Rhodenizer, cast as Big Mama, is a seasoned performer whose history with ACT spans countless productions. Terry Pratt, portraying Dr. Baugh, has worn many hats within ACT as a director, actor, benefactor and longtime member, significantly shaping the organization. Behind the scenes, Wallena Higgins is bringing her stage management talents (alongside Greg Ellard) to help the production shine. Higgins has been a cornerstone of the company’s productions, with contributions to countless shows as a stage manager, organizer and mentor to ACT members. Rounding out the Lifetime Member roster is Pam Jewell, ACT’s accomplished costumer, who is curating and crafting costumes, adding depth and authenticity to the visual storytelling of this emotionally charged drama.

The cast, which also includes Teresa Wright as Maggie, Adam Gauthier as Brick, Paul Whelan—who is also the show’s director—as Big Daddy, Mike Mallaley as Gooper, Amanda Rae Donovan as Mae and Aidan Gallant as Rev. Tooker, has spent months immersing themselves in the story’s layered dynamics. Rehearsals have provided a space to explore the tension and vulnerability that define the play, allowing the actors to build a nuanced portrayal of the Pollitt family’s struggles.

“The cast has been incredibly thoughtful in shaping these complex characters, and it’s inspiring to watch their performances evolve in rehearsals,” says Whelan. “The themes in this play are as relevant today as when Tennessee Williams wrote it.”

Performances are on January 17–19 and 23–25 at The Guild. Tickets are available at theguildpei.com. 

actpei.com