FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Shirley Luna – Feb. 20, 2003

SFA Theatre Alumnus Returns as Guest Artist

When the Stephen F. Austin State University Department of Theatre's production of George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart's "The Man Who Came to Dinner" opens at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, many cast members will be making their debut on the W.M. Turner Auditorium stage. However, David S. Raine, who plays the lead role, will be coming home after 12 years away from the venue.

Raine, who received his bachelor's and master's in theatre from SFA, said he's comfortable being back in the venue where he performed "Hair," "Major Barbara," "Once Upon a Mattress" and "A Man for all Seasons." He also is thrilled to be working once again with Allen Oster, SFA professor of theatre and director of the play.

         Raine and his wife returned to Nacogdoches three years ago, but he hadn’t yet gotten involved in any local theatre.

         "When Allen called me, though, it didn't take me long to say 'Yes,'" Raine commented. "I have missed the relationship with the audience and am looking forward to seeing them have as much fun with the show as the cast has had for the past month."

         "The Man Who Came to Dinner" is one of eight plays on which Kaufman and
Hart collaborated. Writing it at the request of radio personality Alexander Woolcott, the duo poked fun at their mutual friend as they created Raine's character, Sheridan Whiteside.

         The plot centers around Whiteside having to remain in the home of near strangers while recuperating from a broken hip. His domineering and egocentric personality, coupled with his steady stream of eccentric visitors, creates a classic comedy suitable for the entire family, said Raine.

         The play, which will run through Saturday, Feb. 28, is a joint presentation of the SFA College of Fine Arts, the University Series and the Department of Theatre.

         Prior to Tuesday's opening, the College of Fine Arts will host a 6:45 p.m. reception to honor the show's corporate sponsor, Tipton Ford, in Griffith Gallery. At 7 p.m., Oster will give an informative talk on the play. Both events are open to the public.

         Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and $5 for students. For more information, please call (936) 468-6407 or 1-888-240-ARTS or log on to www.finearts.sfasu.edu.

-30-