Pullman Civic Theater postpones season

Keeping their patrons healthy and sane during Covid is Pullman Civic Theatre’s (PCT) goal this fall.

In light of the ongoing challenges, the theatre group has opted to postpone the remainder of this season’s live performances, while continuing their Virtual PCT performances and adding a new offering: “Virtual Mainstage.”

The group now works to revive the first show of 2020 to fall under the shadow of Covid: “The Importance of Being Earnest” by Oscar Wilde.

Earlier this year, actors were getting off books, costumes and sets were planned, and the show was ready to go up in April. Two weeks before opening, the theatre closed to the public.

Director Sam Opdahl is now excited to bring the actors and designers back to complete the project virtually, in a way that will honor the original intent of the production, and the hard work that has gone into it.

PCT will air a staged-reading of the show this fall, complete with costumes, props, sets, lighting and sound.

The team plans for additional full stage shows later in fall and winter, coupled with their ongoing biweekly, all-original, “Virtual PCT” performances on their website (www.pullmancivictheatre.org) and YouTube channel. The episodes are approximately 15 minutes and recorded with social distancing.

“Each artist records their voice and video in the home, while I record the handmade sound effects in the theatre,” said Mike Long, PCT Producer. “Everything is then stitched together by our wonderful artistic director, Kirstin.”

According to Long, Virtual PCT was started with two goals – to give the team a continued creative outlet during Covid, and to provide safe entertainment for the community they love.

The team would also like to remind the community that the decision for the performing arts to “go dark” is having significant economic impact on PCT and all performing arts organizations.

Any financial support is greatly appreciated, and donations can be made online at the theatre’s website.