Staring at dying can inspire living. It did for Keith Alessi. Contemplating a deadly diagnosis led him to playing a new tune with what was left of his life, which turned out to be substantial. When you do what you love, swim with the flow of your passions, it’s amazing how far you can go.
This week he plunges into the spotlight at the Sunset Theatre in Wells to perform his dramatized biography-inspired play Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life. There will be one actor (Alessi), four strings, a bowl of tomatoes and a barrel of laughs.
Alessi is a certified public accountant with an MBA. He was a CEO and professor. He was a successful businessman with a collection of more than 50 banjos, because he loved them. But he couldn’t play.
When he was told he likely had only a short time to live due to oesophageal cancer, he dropped the job, dove into lessons, and devoted his remaining days to making the most of that banjo love. Many years have now gone by, and he travels with his music and his story, scripted into a hilarious slice of life.
“This intimate experience is one sure to leave you feeling empowered, inspired, and ready to dust off your own long forgotten dreams,” said Sunset Theatre director of presentations Julia Mackey. “Told through authentic storytelling, heartfelt humour and music, this highly awarded, internationally toured show is an uplifting story of challenge, triumph, and the power of positivity.”
Alessi has performed the show hundreds of times, now, and donates his artist fees to charities. He and the play’s director, Erika Conway, will be up the road in Wells for three performances only: July 6, 7, 8.
Tickets are $20. To pre-purchase, call the Sunset Theatre box office at 250-994-3400 or email sunsettheatre@gmail.com. You can order online at www.sunset-theatre.com/tickets or get them at the door while supplies last.
Coming up soon at the Sunset Theatre
July 15…solo drama Jake’s Gift starring Julia Mackey
July 21-22…concert by Little Fox featuring Alison Jenkins
July 28-29…documentary film screening and music by synth-duo Half/Asian + Amy The Coda
Aug. 3…Cabaret show with a mix of performances
Aug. 4-5…hilarious play Field Zoology 101 With Bradly Q. Gooseberry
Aug. 4-5…concert by Madeline Tasquin
Aug. 11…concert by The Fugitives
And more on the Sunset Theatre website
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