Jan Guarino is simply in love with Oralene, the character she plays in Virginia Repertory Theatre’s production of The Silver Belles, running through December 31 at the November Theatre.
The laugh-filled play tells the story of a group of older women trying to get their annual Christmas show, which raises money for orphans to have Christmas, produced even though it director, Oralene, has passed away.
“I like to think of it as part Golden Girls, with a pinch of Blithe Spirit and a dash of Christmas Carol, all lightly fried in the best Southern tradition,” Guarino says.
Oralene is so committed to being there for her friends “that she’s even helping them from the great beyond,” says Guarino.
Guarino’s biggest challenge in playing the role of the deceased Oralene is quietly observing (in a ghost-like manner) at certain times in the production. “I’m a very animated person, so I have to be careful to remember when to be still,” she says.
The playwright, Allyson Currin, has woven a lot of humor and heart into the play.
“From the eccentricities of the characters to the various foibles we southern ladies will have no trouble recognizing… and of course, they’re trying to put on a show, which is always a stressful endeavor, and stress is usually a good accelerant for humor,” Guarino says.
Veteran Ensemble Cast Clicks in Virginia Rep’s The Silver Belles
The show’s seasoned cast works well together.
“One of the great blessings of this production is that Cathy (Shaffner), Julie (Fulcher-Davis), Robyn (O’Neill), Joe (Pabst), and I have been working together in more shows than I can count for more years than I can count,” Guarino says. “We love each other desperately and Kim (Fox Knight), whom we’d not met before, was instantly a part of things. She’s so talented and funny and good-hearted. We’re a group of old friends who made a new friend, and I think it’s very, very lucky.”
The production feels familiar even though it’s new, she adds.
“It’s got the spirit of the season and music that slips right into your ear, with novelty and excitement and, again, tons of laughs,” she says. “It’s a play about people who care about each other, and maybe that’s the message – treat each other with care and good things will happen.”
The show’s director, Susan Sanford, also loves the fact that The Silver Belles has so much heart in it.
“I feel like, especially in Richmond, that people are really going to be able to recognize themselves and recognize traditions… whether it’s for the holidays or helping people who are grieving,” she says. “I think it’s a really sweet show that everyone will be able to enjoy, especially at the holiday season.”
The Silver Belles is suited for kids nine or older and showing at Virginia Rep’s November Theatre through December 31. Read the RFM review.
