When asked, “Karl, why Backstage?” He quickly replies, “Because Backstage is where the real show happens! If you only knew what goes on in the back stage of a theatre, you’d maybe want to watch the show from there instead. Serious!”

Karl Hart is the founder of The Pantry Playhouse, which celebrates its 10th year in May 2010. To mark its celebration, Karl embarks on his fourth theatrical offering, “BACKSTAGE”. The play opens on May 7 at the playhouse.

Karl’s other stage pieces written and produced in the last 10 years include: “Dem Good Ole Days”, “Ban Yuh Belly & Laugh” and “Secrets”. All three productions were well received by appreciative audiences, and all boasted Actor Boy nominations and two awards.

BACKSTAGE is about a show in rehearsal that experiences some challenges during its six weeks of preparation for the upcoming show. The style is not the typical format; and yes, it is played by actors who play the characters of The Producer, The Director, The Stage Manager and two Stage Actors, who are all seen playing on and off stage during this presentation.

In BACKSTAGE, Hart plans to enlighten and entertain patrons, showcasing the various attitudes, egos, jealousies and even short flings which are sometimes fueled by unborn stars who come to productions seeking recognition – which they sometimes achieve, but for what is thought of as the wrong reasons.

The complexities are endless, but regardless of the obstacles, the strong will come out fulfilling their objectives. No matter what, the show MUST go on!

BACKSTAGE promises to provide wholesome entertainment for the entire family. It is directed by Nicole Williams, with lead actors – Peter Heslop, Gracia Thompson, Brian Johnson, Nyanda Cammock and Chris Taylor. Backstage premieres Friday, May 7, 2010 at 8:30 p.m. A gala cocktail event will precede at 6:30 p.m.

Now, Roach has unveiled yet another hit, Ras Genie, which opened on Friday June 12 at the Pantry Playhouse. Roach always pulls on the familiar in his work, and this time around, Hitchin Street in Allman Town becomes the background for this interesting tale spun around extremely colourful characters. Veterans Peter Heslop, Dean Martin and Rowan Byfield are experts at delivering comedy and so guarantee that audiences will get a bellyful each night while relative newcomers Carlene Taylor and Natalee Cole bring the flair and drama which locks audiences into their story … additionally, Jenice Jackson and Uri Stewart alternate in respective roles.