SVC Theatre’s production of “Biloxi Blues” to raise money for veterans group

Just in time for Veterans Day, Southern Valley Community (SVC) Theatre is putting on a production of "Biloxi Blues," the semi-autobiographical tale of playwright Neil Simon.

"We wanted to do something related to veterans around Veterans Day to show our support," said Trish Wade, founder of SVC Theatre.

The production shadows 20-year-old Eugene Morris Jerome, who was drafted into the U.S. Army during World War II. Both humorous and heartfelt, the story shows the character going through boot camp in Biloxi, Miss.

"Biloxi Blues" is scheduled for 7 p.m. Nov. 9 and at 2 and 7 p.m. Nov. 10 at the Henderson Convention Center, 200 S. Water St.

Tickets are $12 or $10 for military personnel. A portion of the proceeds is expected to go to the Southern Nevada Blinded Veterans Association.

The production is open to all ages, but it is recommended for those 16 or older because of adult language and situations.

Andrew Wright is directing SVC Theatre's production.

"When reading the script, I really felt that a man needed to direct it," Wade said. "Not that I wouldn't have loved to do it. I just felt the characters were going though problems other men could relate to."

Wright described it as the ultimate locker room talk. He said he has loved the script since he read it when he was younger.

"I enjoyed the movie character, too, with Matthew Broderick," Wright said. "The character is intriguing."

To make sure he captures the essence of what it's like to be a veteran, Wright has been asking people in the military about their experiences in going through boot camp or returning home.

"We want to stay true to that life style," he said.

Wright said he also has reached out to other friends to make sure he does his best to portray some of the raw, intense moments of the play.

In addition to having the expertise of Wright, who runs RagTag Entertainment , Wade thinks it's good that theater groups around town are starting to connect and help each other .

Wade said that in the past, there had been a disconnect with some groups.

"But that has been changing," she said. "Groups realize they need each other. They are more willing to reach out and say if they need something."

Wade said the production is expected to have a preshow with music and dancing from the '40s. Doors open at 6 p.m. for the evening shows and 1 p.m. for the afternoon show.

"I think having it at the convention center is perfect for that," Wade said.

Along with monetary donations, she hopes to give to the veterans organization in other ways.

Because some of the actors have to have their heads shaved to look the part of privates in the military, Wade is trying to set up an event where members of the Southern Nevada Blinded Veterans Association can get hair cuts along side the actors. Wade said that is still in the works.

After the production, Wade plans to donate many of the costumes to people in the veterans group.

"Their costumes are mostly nice khakis and shirts," Wade said.

SVC Theatre began in 2010 seeking to provide Henderson and Las Vegas residents a chance to take part in community theater . It started out more youth-oriented with the goal of expanding.

It became a nonprofit in 2011 and received a grant that has aided in its expansion. The grant also helped the group afford a better sound system.

"Biloxi Blues" is its first non-youth production.

"With this grant, we hope to have four to six shows a season," Wade said.

For more information, visit svctheatre.webs.com.

Contact Henderson/Anthem View reporter Michael Lyle at mlyle@viewnews.com or 702-387-5201.