A moving performance in Tillamook

Get some life lessons this Friday, Feb. 21, when “Things My Mother Taught Me” opens at Tillamook’s Barn Community Playhouse.

Written by Katherine DiSavino and directed by Ann Harper, the play takes place in the Chicago apartment of Olivia and Gabe. The couple have moved halfway across the country to start a new life together, only to have their parents show up unexpectedly to help with the moving chores. Unfortunately, they are not in the best neighborhood according to Max and must deal with some unsavory characters and situations on the street several floors down.

The cast is a mix of familiar faces and new members of the theater. Playing Olivia Keegan is Elianna Maciel in her first role on the Barn Community Playhouse stage. Her boyfriend Gabe is played by Matthew Bergkamp. Audiences might remember Matthew from his stage appearances in the past few years. This will be Fred and Jeannie Foster’s fourth production with this theater as they perform as Gabe’s parents Wyatt and Lydia. Olivia’s parents, Carter and Karen, are portrayed by Dennis Darling and Valerie Sewell, both newcomers to the playhouse. Rounding out the cast is Mackenzie Wingate who plays Max Mirowski, the building super. Wingate has been in several productions at the theater.

The play runs through March 8, with Friday and Saturday performances at 7 pm and Sunday matinée performances at 2 pm. As always, opening night is Gala Night where each ticket holder receives one free beverage and complimentary hors d'oeuvres. A concessions counter will offer snacks, desserts, soft drinks, coffee, assorted beer and wine.

The Barn Community Playhouse is located at 1204 Ivy Avenue in Tillamook. Tickets, $15 to $20, are available at tillamooktheater.com or by calling 503-812-0275.