Choosing shows for a theatre season can be challenging.  Budget, technical elements, and audience are just a few of the things that are considered.  For Stoneham Theatre’s Producing Artistic Director Weylin Symes, the upcoming Distant Music was a no-brainer.  “Distant Music was an easy choice for us.  It’s by a local playwright, takes place in Cambridge, and is full of local flavor.” 

Distant Music, by James McLindon, tells the story of Dev, an Irish barkeeper, and two patrons on a snowy Day of Epiphany.  Like most Irish barkeeps, Dev is an avid eavesdropper with a gift of gab.  As he listens, Dev gives inspiration and guidance to his two patrons and gains some insight on his own life as well.  “I couldn’t resist the humor and humanity of the relationships among these three unique characters,” Symes shared.  “I love plays which focus on friendship.  I cared about these people, and I knew our audiences would too.” 

Distant Music, directed by Symes, features Stoneham Theatre alums Michael Ryan Buckley (My Fair Lady) as Dev, Thomas Kee (Of Mice and Men) as Connor, and Sarah Newhouse (Picnic) as Maeve.  With a distinct sprinkling of Irish humor, Distant Music will prove to be an unforgettable evening of theatre.