Press Releases

November 1, 2002
The Southampton Players Visit Middle Earth, Present "The Hobbit"

The Southampton Players kick off their 2002-2003 Season with a stage adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's, "The Hobbit." With over 40 delightfully diverse roles, this play with incidental music is the highly acclaimed prequel to "The Fellowship of the Ring."

While Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" has been made into three feature films, "The Hobbit" has only been seen as an animated feature. "This is a rare opportunity for Tolkien fans to view a stage presentation of the prequel," said theater director Michael Disher, "and we're faithfully following the heart and essence of this wonderful book."

The plot involves the adventure of Bilbo Baggins (Bobby Shortle), who journeys with Gandalf the Wizard (community actor Chris Linn) and a band of 13 dwarves through many perilous episodes to reclaim the dwarf treasure stolen by the dragon, Smaug - whose voice will be performed by acclaimed film director Anthony Harvey ("The Lion in Winter"). Harvey is a friend of the Players and will be teaching a film-acting workshop at Southampton College soon.

Best known for their rollicking musicals with large casts and elaborate sets, the ever- evolving Players have become one of Eastern Long Island's most popular presentational venues in recent years. The Players attract many of the area's skilled performers who share the Avram stage with Disher's wealth of student talent.

Disher stated, "This is an ambitious project. Faithful followers of Tolkien's magic will be pleasantly surprised by the utter joy of this cast of otherworldly creatures. Their performances are filled with imagination, animation and a very large dose of innocence." Performance dates are November 8-10, 15-17 and 22-24. Fridays and Saturdays at 8; Sunday matinees are at 5 p.m. Ticket prices are $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. For reservations and group rates call (631) 287-8480.