(l to r) From left to right: Marie Burchi-Skipinski as “Lt. Cmdr. Joanne Galloway,” Chris Stepnitz as “Col. Nathan Jessep,” and Joe Danz as “Lt. Daniel Kaffee.”
Photo Credit: Bryan Clifford
Avon Players Presents Military Legal Drama
A Few Good Men
The play that inspired the popular feature film will dare audiences to see the truth
ROCHESTER HILLS, MI, October 18, 2022 – Secrets will be uncovered in a contest of wills penned by a master of sharp dialogue as Avon Players presents A Few Good Men running November 11-26.
A Few Good Men tells the story of naval officer and JAG attorney Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee (Joe Danz). When two Marines face court-martial for their complicity in the death of a fellow serviceman at Guantanamo Bay, Kaffee is appointed to defend them. A callow and unmotivated lawyer, Kaffee initially tries the easiest route, seeking a plea bargain with the shortest possible sentence. After initially butting heads with another member of the defense team, Lieutenant Commander Joanne Galloway (Marie Burchi Skipinski), Kaffee begins to recognize a high-level conspiracy at work. However, uncovering the truth is difficult in the face of a climate of secrecy and strict adherence to orders lorded over by powerful figures such as the immovable Colonel Jessup (Chris Stepnitz). Ultimately Kaffee’s vigorous defense of his clients puts the military mentality and the Marine code of honor itself on trial. A Few Good Men will keep audiences rapt until its final thrilling moments.
(l to r) Joe Danz as “Lt. Daniel Kaffee,” and Marie Burchi-Skipinski as “Lt. Cmdr. Joanne Galloway.”
Photo Credit: Bryan Clifford
A Few Good Men was the Broadway debut of playwright Aaron Sorkin, whose later works include television’s The West Wing and the screenplay for The Social Network for which Sorkin won an Oscar. The 1989 play was adapted by Sorkin for the hit film version with an ensemble cast led by Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, and Demi Moore.
Director Patrick Daniels was drawn to the show for its emotional tension that underlies Sorkin’s signature fast-paced dialogue: “The show moves quickly, but when it takes time to slow down, the real emotion shines through.” Though the play was penned more than thirty years ago, the themes resonate through all time periods. “There is a theme to this work that explores the question of what exactly makes a patriot. Is it strength and unflinching loyalty or is it the courage to improve things through questioning, having empathy, and respecting the rule of law?” Daniels said.
Tickets for all shows are $25. Call 248.608.9077 for tickets or order online at www.avonplayers.org. Discounts on matinee tickets are available for seniors and students; call the box office for details. Additionally, group rates are available by calling the box office. “Like” Avon Players Theatre on Facebook for special offers on tickets. All major credit cards are accepted. All seats are reserved. Show dates and times follow:
8 Total Performances
Friday, Nov 11
8pm
Saturday, Nov 12
8pm
Sunday, Nov 13
2pm
Friday, Nov 18
8pm
Saturday, Nov 19
8pm
Sunday, Nov 20
2pm
Friday, Nov 25
8pm
Saturday, Nov 26
8pm
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About Avon Players
Avon Players is celebrating its 76th year of bringing quality entertainment to its community. Founded in 1947, Avon Players is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit community theatre located along the winding banks of Stoney Creek in the quaint Historic District of Rochester Hills, only about two miles from the heart of downtown Rochester. Avon Players has been performing shows in its unique A-frame theater since 1965. With ticket prices set at a fraction of those at professional theatre (plus free parking and concessions offered on a donation-only basis) a family of four can experience a sensational live theatrical event for about the cost of one ticket at a "downtown" venue. And for regular theatre-goers, an affordable outing can be an even better bargain by taking advantage of Avon Players’ season ticket packages, which yield discounts of up to 20% per ticket. Additionally, season ticket holders enjoy priority seating selection and voting privileges in Avon’s annual “Stoney Awards.” Additional information regarding tickets and productions is available by calling the Avon Players box office at 248.608.9077 or by visiting the website: www.avonplayers.org.
Cast and Production Staff by Community:
Clarkston
Dan Romzek (Sound Design)
Clawson
Chris Stepnitz (“Colonel Jessup”)
Clinton Township
Patrick Daniels (Director)
Patty Hagel (Properties Design/Set Dress)
Farmington Hills
Nick Frederick (Lighting Design)
Franklin
Eddie Saenz (“Captain Whitaker”)
Garden City
Kirsten Renas (Make Up Design)
Macomb Township
Jonathan Farrell (“Lieutenant Kendrick”)
Oxford
Marie Burchi Skipinski (“Lieutenant Commander Galloway”)
Pontiac
Sean Allen (“Captain Randolf”)
Rochester
Aaron Barnes (“Lieutenant Weinberg”)
Joe Danz (“Lieutenant Kaffee”)
Mark Misch (Producer)
Rochester Hills
John (JD) Deierlein (Set Design)
Ryan Donnellon (“Captain Ross”)
Louise Holoday (Hair Design)
Romeo
Jacob Rayl (“Private First Class Downey”)
Shelby Township
Mark Palmer (“Commander Stone”)
Lori Smith (Costume Design)
Sterling Heights
Kyle Keisler (“Private First Class Santiago”)
Washington Township
Matt Druminski (“Lance Corporal Dawson”)
Waterford
Jeff Stillman (“Captain Markinson”)
Top Photo
(l to r) From left to right: Marie Burchi-Skipinski as “Lt. Cmdr. Joanne Galloway,” Chris Stepnitz as “Col. Nathan Jessep,” and Joe Danz as “Lt. Daniel Kaffee.”
Photo Credit: Bryan Clifford
October 20, 2022, Avon Players and Rochester.Life Staff