Sidesplitting comedy ready for NW
by Michael Kraft, entertainment editor

    Audiences will be treated to a sidesplitting good time as NW Campus puts on The Nerd by Larry Shue.

    The play focuses on the life of architect Willum Cubbert (Andy Baldwin).

    Willum is being pulled in many different directions by his current employer, his controlling girlfriend, his friend Axel and Rick Steadman, a man who saved his life in Vietnam.

    “I was in Born on a Sunday, the last show here, and this a different experience,” Baldwin said. “It’s more light, more comedic.”

    Willum’s employer is Warnock “Tiki” Waldgrave (Kevin Hewett). Waldgrave is an hotelier who is having Willum design a new hotel for him.

    “Tiki knows what he wants and is going to get it. He wants Willum to design something traditional and classical, but Willum just wants to be a lot more creative,” Hewett said.

    This is a larger role for Hewett, who made his TCC debut in Born on a Sunday.

    Paula Adams plays Willum’s girlfriend, Tansy. She also performed in Born and says that this show is a refreshing change.

“Working with Brent has just been so cool, and this show has been fun. It’s so real,” she said.

    Tansy loves Willum, but is moving to Washington for a career change. That planned move is straining their relationship.

Director Brent Alford says that the show is great and a welcome refuge from the world.

    “It’s a farcical comedy and people can come escape for a few hours and just laugh,” he said. “It’s perfect for the holidays and is just good mindless entertainment.”

    The cast’s experience has made Alford’s life easier.

    Other cast members include Kevin Haberer, Jenny Liang, David Ludwig and Cody Lovas.

    The show runs Thursday-Sunday, Dec. 6-9, at 8 p.m. with a 2 p.m. matinee Saturday and closing with Sunday’s 2 p.m. matinee. Call 817-515-7724 for tickets.