OREM — Curt Doussett's first encounter with the 1940s mystery-comedy "See How They Run" wasn't positive.
In fact, he abandoned his intention of auditioning for a part after he got so nervous he became ill.
Hale Theater co-owner Anne Swenson had to talk him into coming back and then persuade him to accept a role.
"This was the first acting part I ever got," Doussett said. "It terrified me. The others who were auditioning were so good that I went home."
Even after Doussett was cast he had trouble relaxing. But he stuck it out for all 26 shows.
"The secret was to focus intensely on my part and the cast around me," Doussett said.
Today, he's directing the show, plus he has a blossoming career in theater.
"This is a really popular play with the audience," he said. "I'm trying to given them a familiar comedy in a fresh way. I'm bringing in new people and I've chosen cast members for their comedic timing. I want to avoid a cartoon approach. I want it to be real."
Cast members for the play include: Mike Gray is Bishop of Lax, Brett Merritt and Doussett double as Col. Clive Winton, Joel Dehlin and Mitch Hall play the Rev. Lionel Toop, Jake Suazo and Mike Robinson play the Russian intruder, Jeffrey Blake and Jaren Hinckley share the role of the Rev. Arthur Humphrey, April Follen is Miss Skillon, Tonia Freeman Doussett and Hailey Smith play Penelope Toop, Stephanie Gray and Page Petruka play Ida.
"This is an absolute favorite of our patrons. It's a funny show," Swenson said.
Swenson said it makes sense to have Doussett come full circle by directing the play that set his acting life into motion.
If you go
What: "See How They Run"
Where: Hale Center Theater, 225 W. 400 North, Orem
When: 7:30 p.m. Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays July 22-Aug. 4, nightly except Sunday through Sept. 3. Matinees at 3:30 Aug. 20, 27, and Sept. 3
How much: $10.50-$14.50
Phone: 226-8600
Web: www.haletheater.com
E-mail: haddoc@desnews.com