WTC's 'Venus in Fur' cabaret style

Zip up your boots as the Whitefish Theatre Co. presents the wickedly smart drama “Venus In Fur” at the O’Shaughnessy Center. In intimate cabaret style, this intricate play opens with a sneak preview night on April 8 at 7:30 p.m. Performances continue April 9-11 and 16-18 at 7:30 p.m.

Written by American playwright David Ives, “Venus In Fur” is set in modern day New York. Thomas Novachek, a beleaguered playwright, is desperate to find an actress to play Vanda, the female lead in his adaptation of the classic sultry tale Venus in Fur.

Into his empty audition room walks a brash and equally desperate actress — oddly enough, named Vanda. Though seemingly wrong for the sophisticated part, the actress’s masterful performance flips the script on the demanding creator’s expectations and turns the session into an electrifying battle of the sexes and a hold-on-to-your-seat game of cat and mouse that blurs the lines of fantasy and reality.

“‘Venus In Fur’ is a tour de force script that will leave you electrified,” says director Jesse DeVine. “While the play explores the dynamics of power between men and women, as well as actors and directors, beneath all of the complex layers is a story about a man needing to be understood, no matter the risk. With switchback dramatic curves, this is truly a show that you can’t take your eyes off of.”

DeVine adds, “It is a sheer joy to delve into an intricate script with two extremely talented and dedicated actors. Becky Rygg, playing Vanda, and Alfred Coggins, who plays Thomas, portray five separate characters, requiring them to constantly and seamlessly transition between parts at a moment’s notice. I invite this community to witness a great piece of writing brought to life by two remarkably mesmerizing actors.”

This play is recommended for adult audiences only due to mature themes and strong language. Tickets are $20 for reserved table or mezzanine seating with food and wine available for purchase. Tickets for the sneak preview performance on April 8 are $10 sold only at the door.

Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office, 1 Central Ave., Whitefish, or by calling 862-5371. Box office hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and one hour before performance times. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.whitefishtheatreco.org. This show is sponsored by the Judy & John Melin and The Village Shop.