Show Time Change: 'Snake County Stories' To Be Presented In January

Well-known local play "Snake County Stories" will show in January to maximize a non-competitive social schedule.

McDonald County Historical Society president Karen Dobbs said the play will be featured this winter, with auditions set for 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 1.

The play, which hadn't been featured for about seven years, was brought back last year, Dobbs said.

Actors and actresses played out the story during Jesse James Days. Though it was met with great community support, historical society officials felt there were many activities that week that vied for audiences.

"We felt like we were competing too much," Dobbs said.

"Snake County Stories" is a light-hearted collection of McDonald County stories compiled by Meredith Ludwig and performed by local talent.

NaTasha Davies, who served as director, will head up the production again this year. She made the recommendation that the show be bumped into January when other activities are at a minimum. That way, actors -- and the audience -- could focus on the play.

Dobbs said those who audition in December will be made aware that actors will present three shows in January, with the possibility of encores. Sometimes, actors are asked to portray a scene or two at several events, she added.

This year, the play will feature the same script but will have shortened timing. The director consulted with the play's author and felt a shorter show would be better accepted and enjoyed more, Dobbs said.

The play is a way to give back to the community, Dobbs said. Actors portray life in McDonald County and the strong character of neighbors.

Admission to the shows is by donation only.

"It isn't the goal to make money on the play," Dobbs said.

While details are being finalized for play production, officials are also preparing for the quarterly membership meeting, which is open to the public. The meeting will be at 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 16, at the Pineville Community Center.

Author Judy Haas Smith of Neosho, who has worked for Life magazine, will be the featured speaker. She is the author of "Larger Than Life: The Legacy of Daniel and Mary Longwell."

Smith will speak about how the magazine impacted the lives of Americans during World War II.

"Life magazine was the lifeline," Dobbs said. "The meeting should be very interesting."

Door prizes will be awarded and refreshments will be served.

General News on 09/06/2018