Showing Feb. 13-23, the Broadway Tony Award musical “TOOTSIE” is hitting the Regional Theatre of the Palouse. Tickets are available online or in-person for matinees at 1:30 p.m. and evening shows at 7:30 p.m. The cost ranges from $30 to $35, with group sales and student discounts available.
The show follows the story of an actor named Michael Dorsey with a “reputation for volatility” as he attempts to disguise himself as actress Dorothy Michaels to obtain a role in a Broadway musical. However, his path to success is halted by a thrilling love story with his co-star, Julie. The musical performances “hilarious dialogue” and the reflected effort of all involved are sure to please the crowd.
The show’s director, John Rich, said, “While packed with a lot of laughs, the story has a lot of heart and an important message on walking in another’s shoes, even when they are stilettos.”
Experienced actors Andres Felipe and Becky Saunders are stepping into the roles of Dorsey and Rita Marshall, while Julie will be played by Daphne Gunn. These thespians are from all over the country and have been brought together by this performance.
“Blending national talent fosters a creative playground, a true actors paradise and helps set not only the bar but local participants’ sights higher as to what we can achieve together,” Rich said.
Saunders said, “[While] the premise of this piece is not new, it touches all people by depicting how the human spirit inspires and endures.” The passion of all involved in the project is clear, demonstrated by their excitement and endorsement.
The Regional Theatre of the Palouse is committed to keeping the arts alive and entertaining a crowd while relaying messages with depth. A triple threat, lead actor Felipe said, “One of the last safe spaces for free speech and thinking is the theater. TOOTSIE presents a storyline that balances real, timeless issues relevant today and comedy.”
Felipe hopes that his role as Dorsey will give him “the chance to entertain the audience and hopefully leave them thinking about their roles in society.” Felipe’s sentiment reflects the goal of the venue as their mission is to foster creativity, provide effort in all they do and inject the arts with livelihood.
“Telling someone’s story is an exceptionally rewarding experience, but especially so when it’s as fun, free and fabulous as TOOTSIE,” Gunn said.
If you’re looking for a local theatrical experience or a night of laughter, this upcoming play checks all the boxes.
Macy Gilbert can be reached at [email protected].