The Algarveans theatre group will be breaking new ground in June, by offering a three person show in a new venue – the beautiful Convento de São José in Lagoa. And one of their newest members, Jim Landis, will be directing his first show with them.
Jim is no stranger to directing. Before retiring to the Algarve in late 2017, he was very active in theatre in Denver, Colorado. He was artistic director at one theatre, sat on the Board of Directors at two other theatres and acted and directed throughout the Denver area.
“One of the most difficult parts of our decision to move to Portugal was giving up theatre,” said Jim. “But imagine my surprise and delight to find a dynamic English-speaking theatre company in the Algarveans!” Jim immediately got involved with the drama group and was cast as David Horton in “The Vicar of Dibley”. He then appeared in the next production, “Whose Life is it Anyway?”
Now he brings his experience to directing their new production of “A Bench in the Sun” by Ron Clark. The comedy is about friendship and aging, and tells the story of Burt and Harold who spend their days chatting and bickering on a bench outside their retirement home. Their world is turned upside down when Adrienne Bliss, a fading film star, moves into the home and they become competitors for her affection.
“This will be a fun show to direct, particularly since we don’t need much of a set or many scene changes,” Jim explained. “It is a perfect show for the intimate space offered at the Convento. I get to focus more on the interaction between the characters, which makes this show so special if done right.”
Jim drives from Tavira for each rehearsal and performance. “It is a bit of a long drive,” Jim admits, “but it is worth it to be able to stay involved with something that I enjoy and which I find very fulfilling.”
Performances are at 7.45pm on June 27, 28, 29. The bar will be open from an hour before curtain-up “to enjoy a warm summer’s evening in a beautiful setting”.
Tickets at €10 are available online at www.ticketline.pt. You can also buy tickets in person at Auditório Carlos do Carmo, Convento de São José in Lagoa or Balcão Único in Lagoa. Tickets are also available from Worten and FNAC shops.
