LEXINGTON, Va. Oct. 12, 2023 — In celebration of Family Weekend at Virginia Military Institute, the VMI Theatre will present a collection of stories and songs of the old west called, “Best of the West” on Friday, Oct. 20, Saturday, Oct. 21 at 8 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 22 at 2 p.m. in Gillis Theater.

“Best of the West” consists of three one-act plays including “The Luck of Roaring Camp” by Bret Harte, and two written by O. Henry, “Madame Bo-Peep of the Ranches” and “The Ransom of Mack.” “The Luck of Roaring Camp” cast includes cadets Denizhan Cakar ’27 as Sandy, Luke Cockerham ’26 as Kentuck, Nick Davis ’27 as Stumpy, and Colin Nicassio ’26 as Oakhurst.

The cast of “Madame Bo-Peep of the Ranches” includes cadets Nicole Samella ’26 as Octavia, Alexander Moore ’27 as Teddy, Carla Feaster ’27 as Mrs. Mac, and Community performer Shay Peters as Ellen.

Rounding out the cast in “The Ransom of Mack” are cadets Ian Coker ’27 as Andy, Javannah Negron ’27 as Miss Rebosa, and Community performer Tom Oxendine as Mack. Linda Gorman and Tim Price act as narrators, Betsey and Jess throughout the plays.

Tim Price serves as guest director under the guidance of long-time VMI Theatre director, Joellen Bland, assisted by Linda Gorman. Victoria A. (Tori) Wright ’24 is cadet in charge, Luke Cockerham ’26 is assistant cadet in charge, and Rechnna Sok ’26 is costume designer.

Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens ages 65 and over, payable by cash or check at the door. Cadets and children ages six and under are free. Reservations are not required. Gillis Theater is located in Marshall Hall on VMI post. 

- VMI -