Welcome Ensemble member Ashlen Cheers to THE PIRATE QUEEN

THE PIRATE QUEEN, a rousing musical adventure based on legendary Irish pirate Grace O'Malley, comes to Hickory Community Theatre June 3rd-18th.

Making her HCT debut in this production is Ensemble member Ashlen Cheers.

A former Floridian, Cheers moved from Orlando to the Hickory area about six years ago, drawn here by the more relaxed pace of life. She works as a home health aide, and is a full-time student at Fayetteville Technical Community College.

A member of the International Thespian Society, Cheers has been active in theatre at Lenoir-Rhyne University, whether behind the scenes for THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, or on stage as Mary Sunshine in CHICAGO.

Cheers says she was attracted to THE PIRATE QUEEN because of its “historical aspect and beautiful music”, and that she "loves the atmosphere" at HCT. She describes herself as someone “willing to tackle anything”, including gardening, gaming, playing guitar and piano, and dancing.

Performances of THE PIRATE QUEEN are Fridays and Saturdays, June 3rd through June18th at 7:30 PM; Sunday, June 12th at 2:30 PM; and, Thursday, June 16th at 7:30 PM. Opening Night, June 3, features reduced-price tickets: $12 for adults, $10 for youth and students. Tickets for all other performances are $16 for adults, $10 for youth and students.

Tickets are available online at hickorytheatre.org, or by phone at 828-328-2283. The theatre box office is open from 12-5 PM Wednesday through Friday, or one half-hour before a 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 Theatre encourages patrons to wear a mask or other face covering while inside the building.

THE PIRATE QUEEN is rated PG for on-stage combat, and moments of adult language and sexual insinuation.

THE PIRATE QUEEN is produced by Dr. George Clay, III, DDS and CommScope. The Hickory Community Theatre’s 73rd season is sponsored by Paramount Automotive and Sunbelt Xpress. HCT is a funded affiliate of the United Arts Council of Catawba County.

(Photo: Hickory Community Theatre)