Hope
for Corky is an irreverent new comedy by PRTC Resident Artist
Randall Godwin that dares to celebrate saying goodbye to this world.
With equal parts wit and compassion, Hope for Corky lampoons
bumbling doctors, relentless media sensationalism, and judicial
indifference while maintaining a deeply humanitarian perspective
under the direction of PRTC Resident Artist Michelle Mountain.
Radio journalist Brian Blessing - who specializes in the "warm and fuzzy" side of the news - finds himself diagnosed with a serious illness while breaking a local story about a heroic lost dog named Corky. As Brian searches for solutions to his health dilemma, his journey takes alternately hilarious and poignant turns along the way.
Despite
his best efforts, his life becomes relentlessly entangled with the
never-ending search for the larger-than-life canine, Corky. With
a little help from his friends Audrey and Neva, he finally realizes
that clinging to life's little obstacles is making him miserable;
true happiness comes from having the faith to let go of his problems
and fears.
The cast of Hope for Corky included Ryan Carlson, Bess Miller, and Kate Peckham, with Teri Clark, Jim Porterfield, Elizabeth Townsend, and Tobin Hissong working together as an ensemble which moved seamlessly through a large and eclectic mix of characters.
Critics' Quotes:"Carlson is an elemental force..." Christopher Potter "... an admirable first effort by (Randall) Godwin, one of the Rose’s regular actors. You get the feeling he wrote it with actors in mind, filling it with favorite riffs and fun characters." Sonia Kovacs Purple Rose actor writes own play Terry Pow Hope for Corky light, yet serious "The play succeeds because of its fast-paced comedy routines and excellent character portrayals... It’s not so much a story as a romp to be enjoyed, and one that cleverly avoids becoming mawkish or just weird." Kent Ashton Walton "...(Randall) Godwin manages to air some pretty biting social commentary, making you wonder if your tears are from laughter or horror... The most indelible images from the play come from the Jim Porterfield characters. In his own unique way, Porterfield has embedded some larger-than-life stereotypes at the base of our brains, elevating Hope for Corky into an unforgettable realm... If you’re looking for an entertaining evening, this play will deliver." Steve Daut |
Photos by Danna Segrest
"Jeff
Daniels built a vibrant Midwestern theater company on the premise
that a gifted performer also can be a resourceful playwright.
Now comes Randall Godwin, a longtime Purple Rose Theatre Company
actor, with his own new play, Hope for Corky... here
is a writer with a comic touch that has promise for the future...
Ryan Carlson, a Purple Rose veteran, is a delightful bundle
of angst as the reporter, and is well-matched by Kate Peckham
as his girlfriend and the ever-resourceful Jim Porterfield...
Fine performances are also contributed by Bess Miller, Teri
L. Clark, Elizabeth Ann Townsend and Tobin Hissong. Michelle
Mountain makes her Purple Rose directorial debut with distinction."