Reflections on the Upcoming Production of "American Abbey"

This year, Sisbarro Acting Studio has joined Christmas Island Style with the production of "American Abbey". Charity starts in the home and I do consider our studio a home to our young thespians (ranging from elementary school through college) on the island. There is no better way to introduce the art of philanthropy than by having the actors take ownership in the mission by giving their talent back to the community and presenting the production "free of charge". This is what Christmas Island Style is all about - bringing the family and community together. Not only have we taken a step in performing without a fee, but we are also setting up a scholarship fund with Florida SW College Theatrical Department. So, aside from all the wonderful elements of performing on stage and what it brings to the table, the actors now can take pride in supporting their fellow classmates now and in the future with the new scholarship fund.

Now, let's get down to the story of “American Abbey.” My mom is a huge fan of Downton Abbey and never missed an episode. I didn't understand the draw until I went to an exhibit in Miami where the set, costumes and clips from the show were displayed in a magnificent tribute to the series. I was inspired and began researching the life of British servants from the early days to modern times and found the stories fascinating (not such an easy life to serve the masters and mistresses of the estates). “American Abbey” is a story of an English Ambassador, Preston Dervish, living in America who fell in love with an American girl, married and raised three children as Americans. When his wife died, he didn't fare so well in raising the children properly by himself. This job was one his wife took care of and when she passed, the family fell apart. Preston decides to resign from his position and return home to teach his children how to become a proper lady and gentlemen. This is where our story begins and where our lovable Lester Higgins enters their lives. Lester's only purpose on earth was self-serving - wine, women and song. The lifestyle of the town drunk suited him fine. His gaiety was cut short when he stumbled into the pathway of an incoming car and discovered going through the golden gates is not, as we say, "a done deal". This is not about getting wings, this is about earning entry. He is sent back down to earth to take a job as a valet for the Dervish family and put Preston's family back together. Not an easy job for someone who did not take his own life seriously.

The play is filled with laughter, zaniness and the mess that Lester creates working within the household. Does he make it before the deadline of Christmas Day to earn passageway? That's for us to know and you to enjoy!!

The cast this year is a combination of actors ranging from ages eight through early twenties. Our youngest actor is Fletcher Huey who plays spoiled brat Timothy Dervish. Our lead man, Ryan Sullivan, who plays Lester Higgins was nearly the same age when he began acting for me when I first introduced theater to our island YMCA, a zillion years ago. I see a parallel between the two actors. Just like Ryan as a tyke, Fletcher is so cooperative, so eager to learn and very expressive. Fletcher came to us two summers ago full of energy and excitement to be part of theater camp where he played "Moose" in the production of "The Lunchroom", a coming of age play about "clicks". Imagine Fletcher, nearly six, playing a high school football player! Well, he did it, mostly an improv role and wingman to Ryan and he did it well!!!  Fletcher has been addicted to acting ever since and never misses an opportunity to join our studio whether it is with our Y Theatrics program or the Y Summer Camp Theater Week. Why does Fletcher keep coming back? According to Fletcher "I love acting because you get to be someone you're not and it's fun to entertain people". You said a mouthful Fletcher and how right you are!!

When you have been directing as long as I have, you pick up the actor’s personality as well as quirks. We call Fletcher “the processor”. He is not the type that can come to a first read cold - if so, you will find his speech slow and deliberate. Almost too focused. If he has the opportunity to study prior, it allows him to process the personality and emotion of the character and he is a different actor. If I was his teacher, I would never, ever present him with a "pop quiz" - it may be a crash and burn. With advanced preparation, the next Marco Island boy genius is making his way through the hallowed halls of our school system.

Come meet Fletcher in his first main stage performance along with our veteran cast of zanies (trust me every rehearsal is a new experience), new faces and talents from the MICMS Theater Club. Remember the play is free; however, we won't stop you from making a donation to get our scholarship fund started!!! I would rate the production PG-13. Although no foul language is used, there are "implied" pieces that we need to caution parents on. See you all back in England. Cheers!!

Come see “American Abbey” at the Marco Island Charter Middle School! 

Friday, December 17 at 7:00 PM.

Saturday, December 18 at 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM.

Sunday, December 19 at 1:00 PM.