Tillamook keeps it in the family

Get the family together for the Tillamook Association for the Performing Arts’ production of “A Nice Family Gathering,” a touching comedy written by Phil Olson opening this Friday, Nov. 3.

As always, opening night is Gala Night where each ticket holder receives one free beverage and complimentary hors d'oeuvres.

Ann Harper directs the story of a family celebrating its first Thanksgiving since the death of the family patriarch. Dad, played by first-time actor Fred Foster, returns as a ghost to take care of some unfinished family business, but is seen and heard only by son Carl, played by Matthew Bergkamp. Trouble ensues when Carl learns that joining the family dinner will be friend of the family Jerry, played by Steve Lewis, last on the stage in 2017’s “A Sting in the Tale.” Mom will be portrayed by TAPA veteran Karen Downs, who has been in many productions with the theater company, her last being “Arsenic & Old Lace” in 2019. A newcomer to the stage is Brice Moorman playing Michael, Carl’s brother. Audiences will recognize Sarajane Elkins from her time on stage in several plays; the most recent was portraying Chelsey in the May 2022 production of “On Golden Pond.” She is playing Michael’s wife Jill. Michael and Carl’s sister Stacy is played by newcomer Jeannie Foster.

Family dynamics and a whole lot of love take center stage in this warm, touching comedy.

“A Nice Family Gathering” runs through November 19, with performances at 7 pm every Friday and Saturday, and 2 pm matinées on Sundays. The Barn Community Playhouse is located on the corner of 12th & Ivy in Tillamook. Tickets, $15 or $10 for students, are available at tillamooktheater.com or by calling 503-812-0275.