A production of epic proportions

Theatre West’s new show is a really big deal

It has been an epic journey for Lincoln City’s Theatre West as it finally raises the curtain on “Epic Proportions,” a play by Larry Coen and David Crane. After a few weeks of delay, the comedy, directed by Bonnie Ross, opens on Thursday, Aug 18.

The play is set in the 1930s and tells the story of two brothers: Benny Bennett, played by Lewis Smith, and Phil Bennett, played by Neal Elsey, who go to the Arizona desert to be extras in the huge biblical epic, “Exeunt Omnes.” 

Things move very quickly and before you know it, Phil is directing the movie and Benny is starring in it. To complicate matters further, they both fall in love with the assistant director in charge of the extras, Louise, played by Christina Contreras, leading to a rivalry of epic proportions. 

Along the way there are gladiator battles, sword play, slap fights and other riotous opportunities for physical comedy provided by the talented cast, which also includes Wes Ryan, Tricia Chandler, Alice Luchau, George Weber, Frank Ward, Hunter Polk, Ray Thorner, Dian Svendsen, Bryan Kirsch and Bonnie Ross.

Performances begin at 7:30 pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday through Sept. 10. There will also be two Sunday matinées at 2 pm on Aug. 21 and 28. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors 60 and students, and $12 for children 12 and under. Theatre West is located at 3536 SE Hwy. 101 in Lincoln City. For more information, go to theatrewest.com or call 541-994-5663.