Beginning March 4, Evergreen Family Theatre (EFT) will prove love can overcome anything, even stupidity.

For its seventh main stage production, the theater, which is located at RedWood Family Church, 11500 Redmond-Woodinville Rd, is taking on Neil Simon’s romantic comedy, “Fools,” a romantic comedy set in Kulyenchikov, Ukraine during the late 19th century. The play is the story of schoolteacher Leon Tolchinsky, who comes into town to teach the local doctor’s daughter and falls in love with her, only to learn that all of Kulyenchikov is the victim of a 200-year-old curse of stupidity.

“This (play is) a lot of fun,” said director Marsha Stueckle. “This one is totally goofy … a goofy, whimsical show.”

Stueckle, who is also the artistic director for EFT, added that in rehearsing the show, she and the cast, which includes actors from Redmond as well as individuals from Everett, Burien and Kent, had a blast because everyone gets along with each other really well.

While this is the first time EFT has done “Fools,” this is Tony Onorati’s second time in the show, although he is playing a different role this time. Onorati, who plays Leon the schoolteacher lives in Kent, but he said he doesn’t mind the long commute to and from rehearsals because, like Stueckle, he has been having a lot of fun.

“It’s worth it, well worth it. Extremely worth it,” Onorati said.

While it is important for everyone to enjoy rehearsals and have a good time, stage manager Christina Rupley said it can also be a challenge. Watching the cast rehearse the comedic play and try different things with their characters can be very entertaining but sometimes makes it feel like there are 20 actors instead of 10 because the process is slowed down by all the laughing, Rubley explained.

She quickly added that this isn’t necessarily a bad challenge because the interaction during the rehearsals have been her favorite part of being involved in “Fools.”

EFT began three years ago in 2008 as a way to bring more community theater to Redmond. In addition to its main stage shows, the theater produces youth shows and offers classes and programs for youngsters interested in drama.

Stueckle said theater arts offer kids and teens who don’t want to participate in athletics another option of interest to pursue. She said this is important because not every kid wants to play sports — sometimes their passions lay elsewhere.

“(Theater) teaches the same skills (as athletics): teamwork, accountability,” Stueckle said.
All the shows EFT produces — youth and main stage — are open to all ages and family friendly. “Fools” is no different.

“Fools” will be playing at the Evergreen Family Theatre at the RedWood Family Church March 4-5, 10-12 and 17-19 at 7:30 p.m. with a 3 p.m. show on  March 19 as well. Tickets are $14 general admission and $12 for seniors and students. To purchase tickets, click here or call 1-800-838-3006.