Hickory – In the play True West, one of the main characters is an aspiring screenwriter hoping to attract the attention of Saul Kimmer, a Hollywood producer. This role is a relatively small but pivotal one. In the upcoming production that opens on April 13th at the Hickory Community Theatre this character is being played by Nathan Crabtree, a teacher with Catawba County Schools.
Crabtree teaches music at Snow Creek Elementary where he enjoys helping children learn to sing, move, and play instruments from triangles to drums to contrabass bars. Crabtree holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in music from Appalachian State University.
When asked about being part of True West he said, “I was drawn to the show for yet another opportunity to stretch my acting ‘chops.’ As a performer who does mostly musicals, it’s a challenge and a thrill to bring Saul to life with my fellow actors. I’m learning a lot from them and from Bill Morgan, our director.”
Crabtree is no stranger to the local community theatre scene. His most recent appearances were in Sweeney Todd at The Green Room, Wonder of the World with the LRU Playmakers and Peter and the Starcatcher at HCT.
There will be a “meet the cast” dinner at 6pm on Wed., March 28th at McGuire’s Pub where cast members and the director will talk about the production and answer questions. Patrons must purchase their own meal.
Performances of True West are Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm (Apr 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 & 28); Thursdays at 7:30pm (Apr 19 & 26); and Sundays at 2:30pm (Apr 22 & 29.)
All seats are $16, seniors, students and youth 18 and under are $14. Tickets are now on sale online at hickorytheatre.org or through the Theatre box office, in person or by phone at 828-328-2283. Box office hours are 12-5 Wednesday through Friday.
HCT is a Funded Affiliate of the United Arts Council of Catawba County. The 2017-2018 Season is sponsored by Paramount Automotive and A Cleaner World. True West is produced by Robert Abbey, Inc. and Dr. George Clay, DDS.
Photo: Nathan Crabtree plays Hollywood producer Saul Kimmer in True West, opening April 13th in the Firemen’s Kitchen at the Hickory Community Theatre. Photo by John Koval.
