On Golden Pond at Marietta's Theatre in the Square

On September 10, 1982, Marietta’s Theatre in the Square opened with its first performance, On Golden Pond which, just a year earlier had been made into a movie starring Katharine Hepburn, Henry Fonda and Jane Fonda.

On August 10 of this year Palmer Wells, one of the founders along with many of the original patrons and supporters gathered in the lobby for music and a champagne reception to kick off the 30^th season with a performance of On Golden Pond.

(In photo, Mr. Wells chats with a long-time theatre patron.)

Inside the theatre, Mr. Wells  greeted the audience and spoke briefly of how he and his late partner, Michael Horne had started the theatre in an 85-seat space adjacent to Marietta Train Depot at 31 Mill Street. Later moving to a former cotton warehouse on the historic Marietta Square, The Theatre in the Square is the only professional theatre and the largest non-profit arts organization in Cobb County. As Mr. Wells recognized the board members, patrons and original supporters it was easy to see the appreciation the community has for the theatre.

On Golden Pond by Ernest Thompson, directed by Heidi Cline McKerley focuses on an aging couple, Ethel and Norman Thayer who are returning to the summer lake house as they have each year since early in their marriage. This year Norman, beautifully played by Peter Thomasson, has the aggravation of becoming increasingly forgetful thus accentuating his normally cantankerous personality. Ethel, (Judy Leavell), loves the old codger and never lets his behavior diminish her cheerful disposition. This year, for Norman’s birthday their daughter Chelsea, (Agnes Lucinda Harty) whom they haven’t seen in several years comes all the way from California to visit. Mailman Charlie Martin (Bart Handson) drops by for coffee, conversation and to see his old friend, Chelsea who is on her way to Europe with boyfriend, Bill Ray (Charles Horton.) They are easily persuaded to allow Bill Ray’s flippant 13-year-old son, Billy (Charlie Garland/ Elijah Marcano) to stay at the lake with Norman and Ethel until they return.

The audience laughed and cried watching the unfolding of this story of relationships. Of an aging couple with deep and well-seasoned love; the tension of a father and daughter who never understood each other and the quick rapport of an old guy and a kid who instantly connect.

It’s always a treat to visit The Theatre In the Square. The picturesque town square of Marietta is home to restaurants, coffee shops and stores. People stroll through the square, dine at sidewalk tables and dress for opening night at the theatre. It has a small town feel right in the metro area. Go early and take time to enjoy the ambiance.

On Golden Pond will be on the MainStage August 10^th through September 11^th.  For additional information visit Theatre in the Square.