Up next at Players by the Sea, the Jacksonville Beach community theater will present A Seat at the Table, a world premiere production by local playwright James F. Webb III, opening June 1.
For Webb, having his original play developed and produced by Players is a dream come true.
“I’m really happy with the play, and I’m excited to see it open,” said Webb, who has previously produced shows on his own. “The support that I have had working with Players is the difference.”
Webb was selected for Players’ New Voices play development program. Playwrights selected have the opportunity to develop their original scripts, culminating in a fully mounted production of their new play.
“I’ve been immersed in Players and in the rhythm of Players,” Webb said. “Through this process, I have a greater understanding of Players and I feel welcome here as a ‘family’ member, too.”
Webb, who played the role of Seymour in Players’ production of Little Shop of Horrors earlier this season hadn’t planned on submitting a script to New Voices, but was encouraged to do so.
“When I submitted the script, I wasn’t thinking ‘this is going to win,’” Webb said. “I wasn’t expecting to get selected.”
The review panel liked what they saw and selected Webb. Part of the process was workshopping and fine tuning the play to where it is today.
“The mentors really helped me a lot,” Webb said. “Their love for the script and the potential that it had helped me hone in the story. I’ve very happy with where the script is now. It represents who I am and my creative voice.”
A Seat at the Table is a two-act play that revolves around the Churchill family and conflicts surrounding the family business and sibling rivalry. Webb hopes audiences seeing the show leave with an appreciation for family.
“I hope they think about living ever day like it’s their last,” he said. “I hope they remember to love one another and always value each other.”
The cast features Kemust Sims Sr., Regina Torres, Marcus Smothers, Rashaud Sessoms, Michael G. Robinson Jr., Ron Veasey, Arden Trusty, Zachary Stone, Francis Scoblick and Ashley Harris.
“The cast has been a tremendous help in developing this story,” Webb said. “I really appreciate this cast. There have been many joyful moments.”
Performances of A Seat at the Table are offered June 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, and 10
Tickets are $23, $20 seniors, students and military. Thursday is student night with half price tickets for students.
For tickets, https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/970414
For more information, visit www.playersbythesea.org.
