Bill Parrish, an actor who has appeared in numerous productions in the area, is making his Hickory Community Theatre debut as Tim in the topical and humorous drama THE CAKE by Bekah Brunstetter. The play opens on Friday, May 22 and runs through May 7 in the Firemen’s Kitchen.
Parrish is a stage regular throughout the region, most recently appearing in HALLELUJAH GIRLS at The Green Room Community Theatre, Shakespeare’s MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING at Newton Southside Park, and ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST at Little Theatre of Gastonia. His recent production credits include CRIMES OF THE HEART and THE LITTLE MERMAID at The Green Room Theatre. He also supports theatre and film in benefactor and leadership roles. Originally from Pinehurst, NC he has resided in Conover, NC for the past 19 years with his wife Tanya. He holds a BSBA in finance and a Master’s in Accounting, both from Appalachian State University.
Parrish says he chose to audition for THE CAKE because, “I love the multi-level personal growth messages of understanding, acceptance, and independence. Tim is simple and straightforward, loves Della, and makes the effort to rekindle.”
Tim is husband to the main character, Della, whose North Carolina bakery is legendary. She is overjoyed when her best friend’s daughter returns from New York to get married and asks Della to make her wedding cake. Della, a sweet-natured Christian, is forced to re-examine her deeply-held beliefs and her own marriage when she realizes there is not one bride, but two. Faith, family, and frosting collide in this timely new play by Bekah Brunstetter, writer for the NBC hit “This is Us.”
Performances of THE CAKE are Fridays and Saturdays, April 22 through May 7 at 7:30 pm; Sunday, May 1 at 2:30 pm and Thursday, May 5 at 7:30 pm. Opening night, April 22, features reduced-price tickets: $12 for adults and $10 for youth & students. Tickets for all other performances are $16 for adults and $10 for youth and students.
Tickets are available online at hickorytheatre.org, or by phone at 828-328-2283. Weekday box office hours are 12-5, Wednesday through Friday, or one half-hour before any performance.
Due to the continued risk of Covid-19 in Catawba County, and in accordance with the latest guidance from the CDC, the Hickory Community encourages patrons to wear a mask or other face covering while inside the building. THE CAKE is rated R for strong adult language.
The Hickory Community’s 73rd season is sponsored by Paramount Automotive and Sunbelt Xpress. HCT is a funded affiliate of the United Arts Council of Catawba County. THE CAKE is produced by Ken Wilkinson and Allen Wood, III. Photo by John Koval