Sunday, April 13, 2025
39.0°F

The Paradise Players return with the comedy 'Deer Camp'

by TRACY SCOTT Valley Press
| April 9, 2025 12:00 AM

The Paradise Players are back with their upcoming production of the hilarious comedy "Deer Camp." Written by Michigan native Lisa MacDonald, the play is set in the remote white pine forests of northern Michigan. It follows Hildy, a grieving widow played by Rashell Jones, and her sometimes contentious friends, as they gather in a secluded cabin.

The group’s mission is to prepare the cabin for an imminent sale. However, their plans take an unexpected turn due to an overabundance of alcohol, a surprise blizzard, and the discovery of a personal diary belonging to Hildy’s late husband. The mystery deepens as the diary reveals a long-hidden secret: a relationship with someone named Cupcake. 

"Deer Camp" was written in 2021 and has been adapted for the Paradise Players by Kathleen Kubka. The cast began rehearsals for the production four weeks ago, and the performance promises to be a memorable one. The cast includes: 

Rashell Jones as Hildy, the grieving widow; Deborah Davis as Bev, a close friend; Tracy Clarke as Jo, Bev’s sister-in-law; Kathleen Hubka as Natalie, a random friend; David Proctor as Gary, Bev’s husband; Don Mogstad, making his debut with the Paradise Players, as Mr. Johnson, the possible buyer of the cabin; Gary Sanks as Bud.

Please note that Deer Camp includes some adult humor and language. Performances will take place on Friday at 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 PM. Refreshments will be available during the event.