The Moncla Community Theatre, which has not staged a production in some time, is happy to announce that it is “back in operation.” On July 9th – 11th and 15th – 18th, the theatre will present an exciting original musical by Nettie Chenevert of Evergreen, entitled “Dear Enemy”. This is the dramatic true story of an incident that might have changed the course of the American Revolution, and thus of our nation’s history.          

When General Benedict Arnold defected to the British cause in the fall of 1780, he planned to hand over the vital fortress of West Point, a coup which would have given a tremendous strategic advantage to the Crown. Luckily for America, the plot was discovered before the planned transfer could be accomplished, and Arnold made a hairsbreadth escape to the English side; but his British contact, the personable young Major John Andre’, was captured. Although guilty of nothing but serving his own country’s cause, he was tried, condemned, and executed as a spy.

Andre’, a handsome and gallant young man of considerable personal charm, made many friends among the young American officers during the brief period of his captivity, and the untimely death which he met so courageously was mourned by both armies. The story is, therefore, a sad one; but it has much to say about patriotism, loyalty and the value of true friendship. The play incorporates scenes from Andre’s earlier life in the form of flashbacks, and the music combines a martial flavor with elements of drama, romance, gaiety and pathos.

The cast and production staff will be drawn from a wide area of Avoyelles and Rapides Parishes and as far away as Shreveport. Performances will begin at 7:00pm Friday and Saturday, July 9th and 10th and Thursday through Saturday, July 15th, 16th and 17th, with a matinee slated for 2:00pm Sundays, July 11th and July 18th. Tickets are $10.00. Call (318) 253-7847 for reservations.