While CAST is technically a local theater, its product is as high quality as some I've ever seen. My first experience was their performance of "Frost/Nixon," a play about the series of televised interviews that former U.S. President Richard Nixon granted broadcaster David Frost in 1977 about his administration, including his role in the Watergate scandal. While history isn't necessarily my favorite thing ever, I was transported by the caliber of acting and mastery of the performance. After Frost/Nixon, I saw "The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Diety" and "How We Got On" in quick succession, and topped off my CAST introduction with this weekend's performance of "Proof," the 2001 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Play about "a brilliant mathematician whose descent into madness leaves his daughter wondering if she has inherited both his talent and his instability."
CAST doesn't shy away from heavy themes, and they succeed in presenting ballsy performances in structured, honest formats. While small, their set design rivals that of Broadway shows, and the acting is consistently some of the best I've seen in Charlotte. But where CAST truly succeeds in the "community" context is in how they treat their theatergoers. Every Friday night is "FUEL Friday Nights," with free pizza available for the hour before showtime, and each show's opening night also offers free homemade food & Amelie's treats. There's also a cash bar with beer and wine from around the neighborhood. Walking into the theater imparts the feeling of being a valued friend, and you are warmly greeted when handed your tickets.
I continue to be impressed with CAST, and I look forward to many more great shows!