Lights, camera, action: New play to debut at Freeport's Winneshiek Playhouse

Jena Kleindl
·2 min read
The lobby of the Winneshiek Playhouse is seen in Freeport.
The lobby of the Winneshiek Playhouse is seen in Freeport.

A new play is opening soon at the Winneshiek Playhouse.

Here’s what you need to know before opening night.

What is Tuesdays with Morrie about?

Tuesdays with Morrie is based on Mitch Albom’s book of the same name about Albom’s visits with his college professor, Morrie Schwartz, who was recently diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS. The play follows their weekly Tuesday meetings as Morrie shares his wisdom and life experiences with his former student.

Who’s in the cast?

Paul Vehmeier stars at Morrie. This is only Vehmeier’s second time on stage since the 1980s. You can typically find Vehmeier working backstage to keep Winneshiek’s shows running smoothly.

“It’s a different challenge on stage,” Vehmeier said.

Nick Janssen stars as Mitch. Tuesdays with Morris is Janssen’s second show on stage.

What makes this show special?

“I have my own mentors and to see that portrayed on stage is really healing and beautiful,” Katie Mitchell, who is making her directorial debut at Winneshiek, said. “I still talk to my own teacher from high school and she inspires me during this show. Teachers make the world go ‘round.”

“Everybody has a Morrie,” Vehmeier said. “There is somebody that we have all learned from that is dear and special to them. Everybody has a Mitch. There is somebody that we’re all teaching."

Katie Mitchell, who is making her directorial debut at the Winneshiek Playhouse, is seen in this undated photo.
Katie Mitchell, who is making her directorial debut at the Winneshiek Playhouse, is seen in this undated photo.

I heard the show was delayed. What happened?

Tuesdays with Morrie was supposed to run at the beginning of March, but injuries and illness forced the show to be pushed back. Mitchell said it was a blessing in disguise.

“The extra time has allowed us to really work the show and make it better,” Mitchell said. “It’s given us the 6 to 8 weeks that this show really needs.”

When does it run?

The show runs for two weekends and opens at 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Winneshiek Playhouse in Freeport. Tuesdays with Morrie also runs Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., April 7 at 7:30 p.m. and April 8 at 2 p.m.

Anyone who can’t make the show in-person can also stream the show. You’ll still need to purchase a ticket and then you’ll receive a link to watch from the comfort of your own home.

How can I get tickets?

Tickets are available in advance by calling the Winneshiek Playhouse box office at 815-232-7023 or by visiting winneshiekplayers.org. Tickets will also be available to purchase at the door.

Jena Kleindl is a freelance correspondent.

This article originally appeared on Journal Standard: Tuesdays with Morrie debuting at Freeport's Winneshiek Playhouse