A funny fundraiser aimed at purchasing new equipment for the Four Counties hospital in Newbury is on tap for Thamesville.
“Hotbed Hotel, “a hilarious American dinner theatre production telling the story of a couple desperately trying to sell a one-star hotel with questionable guests, takes place at the Thamesville United Church this month.
The show is a collaboration between the Four Counties Health Services Foundation and the Crossroads Community Players. All proceeds will go towards purchasing a new portable ultrasound machine for the hospital’s emergency department, allowing for around-the-clock diagnostic imaging.
The play will be led by director Janice Sellen and will consist of cast and crew from across Chatham-Kent. Community theatre veterans who will perform include Al Lozon, Ed and Maureen McLachlin, Linda Schinkel, Jen McMonnies, Rena Parkhouse, Jason Moninger and newcomers Jen Goodal and Dan Bonner.
The province does not pay for equipment in Ontario hospitals, necessitating community fundraising. At 45 per cent, Chatham-Kent residents make up the largest segment of patients accessing health care at Four Counties.
Evening performances of the comedy include a beef dinner while Sunday matinees are the show only.
Tickets are available at Boothill General Store in Bothwell, MacTavish Pharmacy in Dresden, Ridgetown Independent News, Thamesville Home Hardware and the FCHS Foundation in Newbury at 519-784-4307.
An auction including a donated original stained-glass window from the Thamesville United Church is being held in conjunction with Hotbed Hotel.
On Nov. 15 and 16, the show begins at 7:30 p.m., with dinner at 6 p.m. A matinee (no dinner) is slated for Nov. 17 at 1:30 p.m.
On Nov. 22 and 23, production starts at 7:30 p.m., preceded by dinner at 6 p.m. A matinee will be held Nov. 24 at 1:30 p.m. without dinner.
