Play chronicles Middlesboros history, to be presented during April

Southeast Kentucky Community amp; Technical College in conjunction with the Middlesboro Little Theater troupe will present the play The Gatekeeper a stage production in four acts which chronicles the history and development of Middlesboro.

The play was written by Amy Oden Simpson, an associate professor of English at Southeast. The work is her first full-length play; she has previously penned three one-act plays and has also developed a childrens musical.

The Gatekeeper will be performed April 16, 17 and 18 with the Friday and Saturday shows set to commence at 8 p.m. The Sunday performance is slated to begin at 2:30 p.m. All performances will be held in the Central Auditorium located at 4402 West Cumberland Avenue.

The cast is comprised of 15 individuals which includes SKCTC faculty, staff, students and other community members. Music will be performed by Chris Ellis, Josh Good and Matt Onkst.

The play has been made possible by funding provided by the Bowling Family Gift Project which also established an endowment for scholarships at the college.

The play, according to playwright Simpson, Is a unique opportunity for people to learn more about Middlesboro from its pioneer days through the development of the city and its metamorphosis into a bustling town, full of colorful characters and rich with many poignant moments.

Members of the local historical society and genealogy group will have displays in the lobby of the theater where patrons will have the opportunity to learn more about their heritage and the development of the area, noted Simpson.

Tickets are priced at $8 for adults and $5 for students and will be available at the box office.

For additional information contact Mrs. Simpson at SKCTC Middlesboro by phoning 242-2145 extension 50484.