The Unexpected Company is a theater group in Laramie run entirely by people over the age of 50. This last week, on November 2, 4, and 5, they put on a production of “And Then There Was One: A Spoof.”
The play, written by playwright Michael Druce, is a comedic retelling of the Agatha Christie mystery novel “And Then There Were None”. It follows a group of people, all strangers to one another, as they are invited to a party at a mysterious and remote house on an island as they are seemingly picked off and killed.
This production was The Unexpected Company’s 29th production, after the group’s conception in 2005.
According to the show’s production manager Lorraine Van Zee, “This year’s production has been great and the response from the community has been above our expectations.”
The Saturday showing of the play boasted 82 audience members, and the Thursday night performance had 75, according to The Unexpected Company’s box office.
“There’s all kinds of roles that are available that you can help with and be part of a fantastic experience,” said Heather Earl, president of the Unexpected Company.
“We have over 50 members. Seniors do want to participate and give back to their community. Many are trying something new or fulfilling a secret dream,” Van Dee said.
All members of the “And Then There Was One: A Spoof” production team, from actors, to stage tech were over 50.
“Our goals are to have fun, keep our minds healthy and to help our community by providing community theater and financial support, mainly to the Laramie Plains Museum,” said Van Dee.
“I think it is important to work together with all Theatre groups in town and bring theatre to all ages. Theater is an activity you can do at any age, providing entertainment and fun for all,” said Van Dee.
