Synopsis

The play is set in Kansas during the 1950's. Is a small, dingy bus-stop cafe called Grace's Diner. The bus to Topeka is snowed in at Grace's during a blizzard. On the bus, driven by Carl (a man of unknown marital status), is a motley collection of passengers including a chanteuse named Cherie and her fiancée Bo, a cowboy with a few rough edges. Bo's faithful old sidekick, Virge is with him. Also on the bus is a Harvard Graduate with a PHD, a drinking problem and a dubious past.

The locals include Grace (who is well known to the bus drivers on route) and her young assistant Elma, who serves coffee and lends a sympathetic ear. Add the local keeper of the peace - Sheiff Will Masters, you you get food, flights, romance and even a floor show.

Written by Tony Strutton

Directed by Marilyn Cook

Musical Director - John Penberthy

 

Cast

Elma Duckworth (waitress) - Susan Oldknow

Grace Hoyland (Restaurant Owner) - Vi Rowe

Will Masters (Sheriff) - Phil Craig

Cherie (Chanteuse) - Morag Cook

Dr Gerald Lyman (a former college professor) - Bill Hastings

Carl (Bus Driver) - Terry Griffin

Virgil Blessing (Ranch Hand) - Thomas Anderson

Bo Decker (A cowboy) - Mark Hallam

The Singers

Sally Potter

Billy- Jo Cook

Susan Oldknow

Ruth Wilson