Celebrating Theater At The Abbey

BETHLEHEM — On Sunday, March 26, the actor James Douglas will host the opening of “Bridges: The History of the Theater at the Abbey,” a presentation of theatrical art and artifacts at The Monastic Art Shop of the Abbey of Regina Laudis. The show will present a visual tour of more than 20 productions performed at the Abbey, including several in which Mr Douglas has acted or directed.

Theatrical productions at the Abbey have included famous names such as the Oscar-winner Patricia Neal (who played opposite Mr Douglas last summer in Love Letters by A.R Gurney), actress-singer Gloria DeHaven, opera star Veronica Taylor, actor George Grizzard, film critic Rex Reed, blues musician Tom Pomposello (who produced the Abbey’s CD Women in Chant), as well as young professionals and amateurs, some taking their first steps onto the stage.

The Abbey draws this range of talent and experience because of dedicated professionals like James Douglas, who offer their talents and expertise to support quality theater there year after year. Mr Douglas and his wife Dawn first came to Bethlehem because of their long-standing friendship with Dolores Hart, who was once a successful actress of both Broadway and motion pictures (she co-starred with Elvis Presley, Montgomery Clift, Stephen Boyd).

Miss Hart is now a consecrated member of the Abbey’s community of contemplative nuns. In response to Mother Dolores’ commitment in prayer for members of the theater profession, the Douglases formed The Act Association, which ensures ongoing theater at the Abbey.

The productions offered at The Gary-The Olivia Theater on the grounds of the Abbey have ranged from Shakespeare to Sartre, from Moss Hart to Mississippi Blues.

“Bridges: The History of Theater at the Abbey,” will open Sunday, March 26, from 10 am to noon, at The Monastic Art Shop on Flanders Road in Bethlehem. It will run until September. For information, call 203/266-7637.