'Fox on the Fairway' staged in perfect time for golf fans

Though Fox on the Fairway is not a musical, a terrific sense of rhythm is needed to keep this show on track.

“It’s like a symphony. In order to be funny, it has to be seamless,” said Peg Tribert, the director of Aiken Community Playhouse’s production of the show, which opens Friday, March 29. “The characters are not multi-layered. It’s more physical comedy, but people have to take their cues quickly.”

Having the right cast with comedic chemistry is integral to the success of a farce such as this golf-themed one, which is being staged in time for guests of The Masters Tournament to make it to the theater after spending a day on the course.

Carla Cloud, who plays the role of Pamela, said her castmates clicked in their roles from the first rehearsal.

“Everyone is solid in their role,” Cloud said. “It’s like each person was meant to be their role.”

Not only do the actors have to be in sync, but there’s another important element in this show that has to be on time. There are between 30 and 40 sound-effect cues.

In order to make that part of the show run smoothly, Tribert enlisted the help of David Skeen, a playhouse volunteer who worked in sound and recording for several years. He will be assisted by Adam Shults.

“I’ve surrounded myself with capable and generous people,” Tribert said. Although she’s been a volunteer with the playhouse for about two decades, she is directing only her second show there. Her only other mainstage directing opportunity was a few years ago when the youth wing presented Up The Down Staircase.

She’s been an assistant director and stage manager for numerous plays.

Fox on the Fairway will be presented at 8 p.m. March 29 and 30, April 5, 6, 10, 12 and 13 and 3 p.m. Sunday, April 7. Tickets are $20 for adults, $17 for ages 60 and older, $12 for students and $7 for ages 12 and younger.

Wednesday, April 10, is Woodside Wednesday when patrons who have attend that day’s Par-3 Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club can show their badge to receive $5 off the admission price.

For more information, call (803) 648-1438 or visit www.aikencommunityplayhouse.com.