July 19, 2011 > Theatre Review: Harvey is coming Theatre Review: Harvey is coming Submitted By Suzan Lorraine Harvey, by Mary Coyle Chase, has been an American favorite since it was first brought to the Broadway stage in 1944. The play was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for drama and its initial run lasted for four years-1,775 performances. Adapted to film in 1950, starring Hollywood legend James Stewart, Harvey has become one of Stewart's best-loved films. Harvey continues to be a favorite of community theater-goers and Chanticleers is proud to present it during our 2011 season. The story is about Elwood P. Dowd, a good-natured, mild-mannered eccentric, known in all of the local eateries and saloons in his small town. Elwood is polite, cheerful and always friendly toward any strangers he might encounter. Elwood has just one problematic character trait: his best friend is an invisible six-foot-tall pooka rabbit named Harvey. Wherever he goes, Elwood carries an extra hat and coat for Harvey. He buys theater tickets and railroad tickets in twos so they can go everywhere together. A touching and hilarious comedy of errors ensues when Elwood's sister and her daughter decide to have Elwood committed to the local sanitarium. The behavior of the psychologist and his staff raise the penetrating question of who is actually more dangerous to society: The easy-going dreamer with a vivid imagination or the people who want him to conform so they won't be embarrassed. Harvey, directed by Eric Hayes, Artistic Director for Danville's Role Players Ensemble Theatre and performed by a seasoned cast will begin July 22 and continue through August 14 at Chanticleers Theatre in Castro Valley. Group discount tickets are available. Harvey Friday, July 22 - August 14 8 p.m. (Sundays: 6 p.m.) Chanticleers Theatre 3683 Quail Avenue, Castro Valley (510) 733-5438 reservations@chanticleers.org General admission: $18 Seniors/Students/Military - $15