The Dastardly Dr. Devereaux is played by Chris Murphy, with Nurse Cratchit played by Cathy O'Connell. Sitting in amazement is Shelby Posada. Courtesy photo.

LAKEPORT – The Lake County Arts Council (LCAC) is preparing to present “The Dastardly Doctor Devereaux” at the Soper-Reese Community Theatre opening in December.

The production will begin with a 2 p.m. matinée on Saturday, Dec. 5, and an evening performance at 7 p.m., followed by a 2 p.m. performance on Sunday, Dec. 6.

Three more performances will round out the show on Friday, Dec. 11, and Saturday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m. and a 2 p.m. matinée on Sunday, Dec. 14.

This is a very entertaining musical melodrama giving the audience an opportunity to interact with the actors by hissing and booing the villain and cheering on the hero or heroine, which ever may be the case. It's a theatrical production that will put you in the holiday mood and is appropriate for the entire family.

"Although, we have produced the Winter Music Fest and the Spring Dance Festival for over 18 years, it's been some time since LCAC has been involved in a theatrical production and the first for LCAC at the Soper-Reese Community Theatre," said President Sandi Ciaradelli. "We are especially pleased to be partnering in this endeavor with Mendocino College-Lake Side by holding Acting Class 200 at the Soper-Reese and culminating with the presentation of the play."

LCAC'S Executive Director Shelby Posada emphasized the important role that the arts can play in the educational process. With LCAC taking an active role in working with the college by supporting the class and play, we are showing how two major non-profits can interact to encourage the arts, further education and, in the process, benefit the community.

The Soper-Reese Theatre provides the perfect setting for teaching an acting class on a real stage, in a real theater and thus enhancing the learning experience for the 25 students, the instructor/director, the producers and all who are involved in this "win/win" production. This is what a community theater is all about.

For more information visit the Soper-Reese's Web site at www.soperreesetheatre.com or call Jenna Radtke at 707-533-7472.