March 6, 2025
By Rachel Scofield
Photos provided by Ohio U. L.
This weekend, catch the Ohio University Lancaster Theatre production of Leading Ladies by Ken Ludwig – a classic sketch comedy in the style of The Carol Burnett Show mixed with the disguise-driven fun of films like Mrs. Doubtfire, Tootsie and Some Like It Hot.
“If you love mistaken identities, unexpected romance and over-the-top hilarity, this show delivers,” director Victor Jones said. “Big laughs. Bigger disguises.”
Jones said he was drawn to the show because of Ludwig’s writing style.
“I love doing Ken Ludwig plays. There’s just something about his writing that works with my directing,” he said.
The production features a highly collaborative group of performers who also work behind the scenes.
“We have an incredible cast and crew,” Jones said. “The cast is also the crew. They built the set and collaborated with me on many aspects of the show. This is one of the most talented casts I have ever worked with, and there’s something special about how they all work together toward a common goal.”
Audiences can expect a lively and fast-paced comedy filled with memorable characters.
“This over-the-top comedy is packed with hilarious moments and unforgettable characters that will keep you laughing from start to finish,” Jones said. “We had so much fun in rehearsals, and we can’t wait for you to see the show on stage.”
Remaining performances are March 5–7 at the OUL Wagner Theatre, 1570 Granville Pike. Shows begin at 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, with 2 p.m. matinees on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $18 and can be purchased online through the Lancaster Campus Theatre page. The show is rated PG-13.
Upcoming Shows at OUL
Following Leading Ladies, the same cast will present a special free staged reading of Right Before I Go, written and directed by Stan Zimmerman, whose television credits include The Golden Girls, Roseanne and Gilmore Girls.
“This powerful and deeply moving play shines a light on a topic that touches countless lives yet is too often left unspoken,” Jones said.
In Right Before I Go, Zimmerman brings to the stage the real last words and letters written by individuals lost to suicide, including veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, those who faced bullying, individuals battling depression and even well-known public figures. Interwoven with the voices of survivors, the play offers an honest, heartfelt and ultimately hopeful message about understanding, compassion and the vital importance of mental health awareness.
Since its premiere at the Hollywood Fringe Festival in 2015, Right Before I Go has traveled across the country, inspiring dialogue and promoting suicide prevention efforts in communities nationwide.
The staged reading will take place March 23–25 at 7 p.m. at Wagner Theatre. The performance runs about 75 minutes and will include a discussion afterward.
The production is presented in partnership with the Fairfield County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Board (ADAMH), whose staff will be present to offer resources and support. Admission is free, with donations appreciated.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — free, confidential and available 24 hours a day.
On a much lighter note, OUL Theatre will hold auditions for Disney’s Frozen on March 20 and 21, with performances scheduled the weekends of July 17 and July 25. For more information, visit the Lancaster Campus Theatre page.
