‘Love Letters’ onstage for Valentine’s Day

Playhouse Merced is scheduled to present a one-night performance of the acclaimed play “Love Letters” at 7:30 p.m. Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14.

The play, which is about first love and second chances, will feature actors and longtime Playhouse supporters David and Holly Zacharias in the roles of Andrew Makepeace Ladd and Melissa Channing Gardner, according to a press release.

The play chronicles the relationship between Melissa, who is a rich girl, and Andy, a “liberal Republican.” They meet in the second grade and start a correspondence that lasts for 50 years. The story of their bittersweet relationship gradually unfolds from what is written, versus what’s left unsaid in their letters. Through personal triumphs, despair, war, marriage, children and careers they pour out the secrets of their hearts to each other, according to the release.

The pair defy a fate that schemes to keep them apart. Through their writings, the pair keep alive the most meaningful thing in their lives – their love for one another.

Written by A.R. Gurney, “Love Letters” was originally performed on Broadway in 1989 and has been a hit throughout the country since. Gurney’s other plays include “The Dining Room,” “The Cocktail Hour” and “Sylvia.”

The production at Playhouse Merced is directed by California State University, Stanislaus, professor John Mayer. According to the release, it was Mayer’s idea to offer the single performance as a special fundraiser to support Playhouse Merced.

Tickets are $25 each and include champagne or sparkling cider, along with desserts. For tickets call Playhouse Merced at (209) 725-8587 or visit the box office at 452 W. Main St. 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Tickets are also available at UBS Financial Services, 860 W. Olive Ave. in Merced, or call (209) 723-3911.

This story was originally published January 29, 2015 at 10:00 AM with the headline "‘Love Letters’ onstage for Valentine’s Day."