Victorian theater to present ‘A Man for All Seasons’

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

“A Man for All Seasons” will open a two-weekend run Friday at the Victorian Players Theater.

The play, set in 16th century England, tells the story of Sir Thomas More, who as lord chancellor of England refused to support the efforts of King Henry VIII to divorce his first wife, Catherine of Aragon, in order to marry Anne Boleyn.

This decision costs More dearly, robbing him not only of his livelihood but causing those closest to him to question his motives.

The story chronicles the process through which England separated from the Catholic Church to form the Church of England with Henry as its head.

“A Man for All Seasons” premiered in London in 1960 and on Broadway in 1961. It was adapted into an Academy-Award winning movie in 1966.

Gerri Jenkins is the director. The playwright is Robert Bolt.

Sir Thomas More will be portrayed by Eric Kibler. Also in the cast are Stephen Kountz, Chris Haddock, Terri Wilkes, Jessica Joerndt, Margaret Joerndt, John Thompson, Mike Brady, Hunter Thomas, Gary Deckant, Jason Bellis (first weekend) and Jacob Henry (second weekend); William Ploskodniak, Nick Mulichak and Sarah Schut.

Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sunday, through March 20.

Tickets are $12 ($9 for seniors and students). For reservations, call 330-746-5455.