National Actor Terry Runnels to Appear
in The Fantasticks with Falmouth
Theatre Guild
FALMOUTH, MA:
With roots spanning Boston’s South Shore and beyond,
nationally recognized actor Terry Runnels of Plymouth promises to bring The
Falmouth Theatre Guild some unforgettable performances. Cast in the leading role
of “El Gallo” (the narrator), Runnels will perform in the Guild’s upcoming
production of The Fantasticks, composed by Harvey Schmidt, lyrics by Tom Jones,
with music and direction by Joan Baird. Performances will be held at the
Highfield Theater, 7 Highfield Drive, Falmouth on February 3, 4, 5, 10, 11 and
12. Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30 p.m., Sunday matinees are at
2:00 p.m.
The Fantasticks is the world’s longest-running musical, depicting a “Romeo and
Juliet” patterned story with a humorous twist. The ensemble show has moved
audiences to laugh and cry for over forty years. After decades in New York City,
The Fantasticks will delight Cape Cod audiences on their home turf.
A notable bass/baritone vocalist, Runnels has performed locally as a soloist
with Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra, Pilgrim Festival Chorus, Falmouth Chorale
and The Church of the Pilgrimage in Plymouth. His vast acting experience
includes the role of “Max” with the national tour of The Sound of Music”
starring Marie Osmond; three national tours of Annie as “Daddy Warbucks”; and
the Broadway production and national tour of ZORBA starring Anthony Quinn. With
experience spanning more than 100 different musicals as an actor or director,
favorite roles include “Don Quixote” in Man of La Mancha, “Papa Charlie” in
Shenandoah, “Charlemagne” in Pippin!, and “Gaylord Ravenal” in Showboat.
As a drama educator, Runnels recently retired from his full-time position at
Pembroke Community Middle School. Previously he taught at Plymouth South Middle
School, Harwich Middle School, and served as Drama Coach at Carver High School.
Performing his first musical comedy role at University of Oklahoma as “The Boy”
in The Fantasticks, this show sustains special meaning with Runnels. Since that
time, he has played several additional roles in various productions, including
“El Gallo” and “The Girl’s Father”. As a director, he’s personally seen the show
through four full productions. “It’s a classic,” says Runnels, “and one of my
absolute favorites.”
Tickets are $16 for adults, $14 for senior citizens and children under the age
of 18. Meet, Greet and Eat tickets are available for $35, $30 for senior
citizens. For tickets or more information, please visit
www.falmouththeatreguild.org or call
508-548-0400. Special reception package tickets are available for an event being
held after the Sunday, February 12 performance.
