Knoxville's newest theatre -- Flying Anvil Theatre - opens May 5

KNOXVILLE -- A new professional non-profit theatre, Flying Anvil Theatre, will present "Pardon Me For Living: A Biting Comedy" for two performances on Saturday, May 5 and Sunday, May 6, 2012 in Knoxville. The theatre was founded by Jayne Morgan and Staci Swedeen.

In 2003, Swedeen was coming home from running errands when she was bitten by a rabid raccoon in front of her Sleepy Hollow New York home. She captures the event and its aftermath with comedic flair in "Pardon Me for Living," her one-woman show on stage for two special performances.

The comedy was written by Swedeen. She jokes "It's my version of 'Alice in Wonderland,' but instead of 'through the rabbit hole,' it's 'through the rabid raccoon hole,'".

"Pardon Me For Living" replaces Flying Anvil Theatre's initial choice for the opening show, The Agony And Ecstasy of Steve Jobs, which recently caused national controversy when it was revealed that the playwright and performer, Mike Daisey, fictionalized parts of what he presented as a true story. Flying Anvil Artistic Director, Jayne Morgan says that the news came as a shock.

"We had already done some publicity and fundraising when the story hit. It was clear that we couldn't do The Agony and Ecstasy without major changes that would gut the play." Morgan says. "Fortunately, we had another one-person show ready to go. It's ironic - Staci once studied with Mike Daisey. But I can vouch that her play is absolutely true!"

Tickets are now on sale for both performances. The Saturday performance is a fundraiser for the theatre at the East Tennessee Historical Society, 601 Gay Street. The show starts at 7:30, with a gala reception to follow. Tickets for this special benefit performance are $35.00. The Sunday matinee starts at 2:00 at the Knoxville Museum of Art and tickets are $22.00. Tickets may be purchased by calling 865-523-7521 or going to KnoxTIX.com.

Flying Anvil Theatre's mission is to present provocative theatre of the highest professional quality by staging plays that entertain, inspire, and engage the audience. For more information go to www.flyinganviltheatre.com.

Published March 31, 2012