Fall River's Little Theatre deals out 'The Gin Game'

Two kindred spirits develop a feisty relationship over games of gin rummy in "The Gin Game," the latest offering in the Little Theatre of Fall River's summer Firebarn series.

D.L. Coburn's touching comedy, which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1978, will be presented at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and Aug. 26 through 28, and at 7 p.m. this Sunday and next.

Directed by Little Theatre veteran Leo Stickman, "The Gin Game" will be presented at the Firebarn, Prospect Street and Highland Avenue.

"The Gin Game" is a slice of life of two people in their twilight years. Fonsia and Weller, residents of a retirement community, share the intimate details of their lives as a series of gin games unfolds. As they play, their secrets become weapons they use against each other.

The original Broadway production starred husband and wife Jessica Tandy and Hume Cronyn. The Little Theatre production showcases Don Carroll and Linda Monchik.

In his review of the original production, critic William Raidy described "The Gin Game" as "a fascinating play that will both amuse and haunt you almost at the same time. Long after you leave the theater, you will be thinking about it."

Tickets are $10 for the general public, $8 for seniors over 62 and students, and $5 for children 12 and under. Group discounts also are available.

For reservations and information, call the Little Theatre box office at (508) 675-1852.

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Photo by David W. Oliveira
Linda Monchik and Dan Collins rehearse a scene from "The Gin Game" at the Firebarn, home of the Little Theatre of Fall River.