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originally published: 11/16/2023 

(PLAINFIELD, NJ) -- Five years ago, Dragonfly Multicultural Arts Center, a nonprofit community theater, moved to Plainfield and found a home at duCret Center of Art. Dragonfly was founded in 2014 and had had many homes up to that point, but none were permanent. Since moving to duCret, Dragonfly has presented 21 productions and is now the theater in residence.

Catherine LaMoreaux, Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Dragonfly says “The duCret management, especially Executive Director Tim O’Connor, has been incredibly supportive of our efforts. We feel lucky to be able to be a part of a thriving arts community in Plainfield and have the opportunity to grow there.” Because of the success of the collaboration and to demonstrate the theater company’s appreciation for duCret’s hospitality, Dragonfly will be presenting a fundraiser for duCret: a production of the celebrated two-person play Love Letters December 2nd and 3rd.

Love Letters, by A.R. Gurney, tells the story, through letters, of Andrew Makepeace Ladd III and Melissa Gardner, childhood friends whose correspondence begins with childhood birthday party thank you notes and summer camp postcards. The letters continue through their school years, romance, careers, and family problems. Throughout the ups and downs of their friendship, the letters serve as a strong connection between the two, demonstrating the depth of their long-distance relationship.

Love Letters has been performed across the country by stars including Mia Farrow, Carol Burnett, Alan Alda, Jason Robards, and many more. Dragonfly’s production will feature O’Connor and LaMoreaux, highlighting their organizations’ collaboration. O’Connor has performed in seven Dragonfly plays so was a natural choice to play Andrew Makepeace Ladd III, a privileged New England Wasp. LaMoreaux, who often directs Dragonfly plays, had no plans to perform, but when the actress who was cast as Melissa had to bow out, LaMoreaux took over. “We’re so used to working together.” O’Connor says. “So, it seemed natural.”

Tim O’Connor appeared in Dragonfly’s productions of In the Next Room, The Government Inspector, Pride and Prejudice, Certifiably Yours and others. LaMoreaux usually directs for Dragonfly but has also appeared in the web series The Year of the Phoenix and the short film In Metuchen. Dragonfly’s production of Love Letters is directed by Jada Davis, who is making her directorial debut. Davis is Dragonfly’s Production Stage Manager and has stage managed the past eight shows.

 

Advertise with New Jersey Stage for $50-$100 per month, click here for info

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There will be two performances only, Saturday, December 2 at 8:00pm and Sunday, December 3 at 3:00pm. Tickets are available for purchase online or at the door. Ticket prices are $15 for students and senior citizens and $20 for adults. A champagne reception will be included.

Dragonfly Multicultural Arts Center is dedicated to celebrating diversity through arts education, dramatic performances, and creation of new works. Dragonfly is committed to reaching all the diverse communities of Central New Jersey with classes for all ages and backgrounds; performances that enlighten, entertain, and educate; and opportunities for development of new works.

Advertise with New Jersey Stage for $50-$100 per month, click here for info

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