A classic Hollywood comedy will be transported to the Aberdeen stage today in a live theatrical performance of Harvey.
Mary Chase’s Pulitzer Prize-winning 1944 play, which hopped to stardom in the 1950 James Stewart film, follows the story of Elwood P. Dowd and his unseen friend, Harvey – a rabbit which is over 6ft tall.
Finding his eccentric behaviour embarrassing, Dowd’s social-climbing sister Veta approaches a sanatorium to have her brother committed.
A comedy of errors soon ensues when the anxious Veta is mistakenly committed, leading to Elwood slipping out of the hospital.
Confusion and chaos comes to town as friends, family and staff set about trying to catch this unassuming man and his invisible rabbit.
“Although it’s 70 years old, the messages are timeless,” said local actor Sandy Nicol (pictured), who plays the role of Elwood in Studio Theatre Group’s production this week.
“Ultimately, it’s about a family trying to resolve issues that threaten to pull them apart. Alongside that, it’s a story of friendship and having the courage of your convictions.
“Elwood teaches us to be ourselves, even in the face of ridicule, and that’s a great message to bring to the stage.”
Studio Theatre Group’s production of Harvey runs at Arts Centre Theatre, Aberdeen, from today until Saturday, May 31, at 7.30pm. Tickets are available from www.aberdeenperformingarts.com or by calling 01224 641122.