Hickory – Hickory Community Theatre is thrilled to announce that newcomer Cate Jo has joined the cast of The Squirrels, by Robert Askins. Performances will take place from October 18 through November 2 in the Firemen’s Kitchen.

Cate Jo, who plays Chordata, a talented new face in the local theatre scene, and brings fresh energy to the production, promising an exciting portrayal in this darkly comedic tale. Originally from Alabama, she relocated to Charlotte to be near her sister. Jo studied Theatre at Vanderbilt University and since her relocation busy in the theatre scene down in Salisbury. Her credits include Molly in And Then There Were None at Lee Street Theatre and Philomena in Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All for You with Comedy Arts Theatre of Charlotte. “Everyone at Hickory Community Theatre has been so welcoming,” she said.

 The Squirrels is a wild, boundary-pushing play that uses the metaphor of warring squirrels to explore themes of greed, power, and survival. Join us for a unique theatre experience that promises laughs, drama, and a little bit of chaos in the world of squirrels!

This production is rated R for adult language, squirrel-on-squirrel violence, and yes, contains nuts.

Admission is $18 for adults and $12 for students or youth 18 and under. Tickets are available online at hickorytheatre.org or by phone at 828-328-2283.

The Squirrels is produced by Diane’s Shelter. The 76th season at HCT is sponsored by A Cleaner World, Protection Products, Inc., Shurtape Technologies and LifeRootz. The Hickory Community Theatre is a funded affiliate of Arts Culture Catawba and receives sustaining support funding from the North Carolina Arts Council, a Division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, a state agency.

PHOTO: Cate Jo plays the role of Chordata in The Squirrels.  Photo by Eric Seale.