Malvern-based theatre People’s Light announced an extension to the upcoming regional premiere presentation of The Porch on Windy Hill, a new play with old music by David M. Lutken, Sherry Stregack Lutken, Lisa Helmi Johanson, and Morgan Morse. The theatre has added seven performances and extends the show’s run through Oct. 20. The Porch on Windy Hill is presented on the Steinbright Stage, an intimate, flexible 140-seat theatre.
The story follows a young couple who leave their life in Brooklyn for the mountains of North Carolina in search of musical inspiration. It features live performances of a dozen traditional American roots melodies played on a mix of guitars, violins, banjos, and an erhu. Conceived and directed by Sherry Stregack Lutken, the production’s cast features audience-favorite David M. Lutken returning to the People’s Light stage with actors Rob Morrison and EJ Zimmerman.
People’s Light begins its golden anniversary season with a journey through Appalachia, where Bluegrass/Americana meets a worldly perspective on musical roots and family ties. In The Porch on Windy Hill, Mira (Zimmerman), a biracial Korean American violinist, and her boyfriend Beckett (Morrison) reconnect with her estranged grandfather Edgar (Lutken), delving into the joys and pains of the past. In the mountains of North Carolina, they discover the ability to bridge divides and heal wounds through the power of music. Set against a backdrop of authentic “old-time” and Bluegrass melodies, this heartwarming tale combines endearing characters and traditional instruments in a harmonious exploration of heritage and human connection.
The Porch on Windy Hill had a 2021 world premiere at the Ivoryton Playhouse in Connecticut and three productions in Chicago, Illinois, Lowell, Massachusetts, and Weston, Vermont.
If You Go
- Performances through Sunday, Oct. 20.
- Tickets start at $35
- Access Night performances are Tuesday, Sept. 24, at 7 p.m., or Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 2 p.m.
- Thursday Hootenannies, a post-performance BYOI (bring-your-own-instrument) musical free-for-all with the cast are available on Sept.26 and Oct. 3 and 10.
- Runtime of 2 hours with an intermission
- Recommended for audiences ages 12 or older.
- To purchase single tickets, visit peopleslight.org or call the box office at 610-644-3500.