By Erin Knutson

Guests, dignitaries, friends, and the media were granted a sneak preview of Cranbrook Community Theatre’s (CCT) production of ‘The Shoplifters’ by Morris Panych Wednesday evening at the Studio Stage Door Theatre.

The heart-warming, comedic, and dramatic play filled the house with laughter as audience members applauded bold performances by actors willing to push the boundaries of the law, acceptable decorum, questionable behaviour and zany antics to meet their objectives.

An overzealous security trainee (Bradley McCue), a veteran security guard (Bob McCue), and two outrageous shoplifters, played by Emily Bohmer and Brenda Burley, steal hearts at the grocery store setting and soften the audience to the plight of the underprivileged and the rising cost of living.

Director Michelle McCue grazed on the subject of the ‘have and have nots’ in a hysterical and flamboyant manner while hitting home on a prevalent societal issue.

“We hope you come away from ‘The Shoplifters’ thinking about the less fortunate in our communities. The record cost of groceries is pushing many below the poverty line, and our food banks are having difficulty keeping up,” she said.

McCue encouraged people to donate to the Cranbrook Food Bank in the evening’s program.

The witty ensemble cast was accompanied by the talents of longtime CCT producer and set-designer Landon Elliott, who helped bring the comedy to life, with stage manager Sandy Ashby and an outstanding behind-the-scenes crew who made the sneak peek run a polished affair.

“The Shoplifters’ has been graced with a cast and crew whose theatre credit lists are long enough to fill an entire program,” said Elliott.

The actors had fun with their performances, took risks, and their kinetic energy filled the room.

At times, the audience was shocked by risky phrases and sexual overtones, which included baring one’s chest and tasering a raw steak while chasing around suspects during a prolonged interrogation period.

Overall, the effect was highly amusing, leaving the audience with jaws open, wide-eyed and waiting for the next act.

“We hope you come away with laughter, camaraderie, and a sense of community,” said the director in her final comment to guests.

The show runs April 28-29 and May 4-7, 10-13. Tickets can be purchased at cranbrookcommunitytheatre.com

Lead image: Bradley McCue (left), Emily Bohmer and Bob McCue entertain in the zany comedy ‘The Shoplifters’ at the Studio Stage Door Theatre in Cranbrook. Photos by Erin Knutson

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