Clague Playhouse's "Last Train To Nibroc" Is Charming Drama

When Raleigh and May meet on a cross-country train, it’s not exactly love at first sight. The story of their budding romance is a comical and touching one in “Last Train To Nibroc,” running now through Feb. 6 at Clague Playhouse.

The one-act play by Arlene Hutton follows the couple's relationship over several years, developing complex but relatable characters. May and Raleigh are the only characters on stage in the 1940s-era drama directed by Rob Gibb. The sparse plot leaves the personalities and developing relationship as the driving force of the play.

“I think that’s part of why the writing is so great,” said Jeff Bartholomew who plays Raleigh. “I think everyone has a piece of either May or Raleigh in them and to me that’s what’s most amazing. You see little things that they do and you think, ‘Oh yeah, I know that.’”

Clague Playhouse’s intimate setting also lends itself well to the small cast. The audience can easily pick up each awkward pause in the conversation or hidden smile from the actors, highlighting the realistic dialogue.

“I really enjoy doing straight plays – just being able to use facial expressions and being able to be real,” Bartholomew said. “This is such a unique space that everyone can see those facial expressions and it makes those pauses so important because you can actually interact with the audience.”

But the small space also makes it easy to notice mistakes.

“We learned from rehearsal that you have to be on your toes the whole time,” said Kristen Levy who plays May. “If you mess up one line, it’s like a train wreck.”

Playhouse board of directors member Joy Sweet said the board will take the play to the state American Association of Community Theater festival in March.

“We’re actually kind of excited about it,” she said. “We want to win.”

“Last Train To Nibroc” has show times at 8 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday through Feb. 6, with Sunday shows at 2 p.m. Reservations are highly recommended as the theater fills quickly. The Jan. 27 show is already sold out.

Adult tickets are $12 on Thursdays and $13 on the weekend. Senior and student admission is $11 on Thursdays and $12 on the weekend. To reserve a seat, call the box office at 440-331-0403 1-6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday or an hour before curtain on performance dates.