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Andrew Torkelson and Kristine Iverson, playing the parts of Robbie Hart and Julia in the play "The Wedding Singer," rehearse a scene Tuesday night at Frank W. Bridges Theatre.

The 80s are back at Riverland Theatre

'Wedding Singer' to debut Friday

By Katie Johnson (Contact) | Austin Daily Herald

Published Wednesday, September 30, 2009

It’s 1985, and Robbie Hart is singing the blues.

After splitting with his fiancee, Hart tries to mend his broken heart and finds true love in “The Wedding Singer,” a musical-comedy debuting Friday at Riverland Community College.

Based on the 1998 film of the same name, the play follows the New Jersey musician as he is left at the altar and reminded of his grief at each wedding performance.

“It’s about a wedding singer who has made his fame in life singing at weddings,” director Jerry Girton said. “At his own wedding, his fiancee doesn’t show up. The rest of the play is about him getting back in the world. Lots of funny 80s stuff.”

Girton said this season features American-themed productions, including “Death of a Salesman” and “Take Me Out.”

“When ‘The Wedding Singer’ became available it seemed to be a perfect fit,” Girton said.

The theater presents one contemporary and one traditional musical each season. The other musical this year is “Oklahoma!”

A cast of about 25 will perform, including Andrew Torkelson as Robbie Hart; Kristine Iverson as Julia; Emma Langemo as Holly; and Andrew Conway as Sammy.

“The Wedding Singer” debuts at 7:30 p.m. Friday, with evening shows Saturday and Oct. 7-10, and a matinee at 2 p.m. Sunday in the Frank W. Bridges Theatre, Riverland Community College.

Tickets are $14 and available in advance at Coffee House on Main and the Riverland Box Office, 433-0595.

This play is rated PG, for ages 14 and up.

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