By Ashlee McGreevy
Circle Theatre
Circle Theatre continues its 67th Main Stage season with a production of Superior Donuts opening on Thursday, Aug. 8 at 7:30 p.m. inside the Performing Arts Center on the campus of Aquinas College.
Under the direction of Mike Hull, Superior Donuts tells the story of Arthur, a Polish – American, who owns a decrepit donut shop in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago. Franco Wicks, a black teenager who is his only employee, wants to change the shop for the better. This comedy- drama by Tony® Award and Pulitzer Prize–winning author Tracy Letts explores the challenges of embracing the past and the redemptive power of friendship.
Circle Theatre audience members can take advantage of the Lobby Bar on select nights throughout the summer, including the Aug. 9 performance of Superior Donuts. On Aug. 9, Michigan craft beer and wine as well as donuts from Marge’s Donut Den will be available starting at 7 p.m.; beverages can be enjoyed inside the theatre on that evening.
“This is a show about being stuck in life,” said Andrew Manion who portrays Kevin Magee in the Circle Theatre production. “Stuck because of past mistakes, stuck because of one’s upbringing or background, or maybe stuck because of a crippling anxiety, guilt or fear. This is a show about overcoming these paralyses in order to find freedom, even when opposed by literal violence.”
Hull said “Our show is the story of the American Dream as told by ordinary people. If you are someone who believes that America can be the best it can be for all of its people than this is a show that will hopefully inspire some questions and no small degree of hope.”
Superior Donuts will run Aug. 8 – 10, 14-17, 21 – 24 at 7:30 p.m. and Aug. 18 at 5:30 p.m. The show is rated “R” due to strong language. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the box office at 616-456-6656 or visit Circle’s website at circletheatre.org.
