SR Theatre presents ‘Tiny Beautiful Things’
By Jill Alexander
They say great things come in small packages. Scripps Ranch Theatre will soon demonstrate this sentiment as it performs “Tiny Beautiful Things,” based on the book by Cheryl Strayed; with Kym Pappas directing.
The play was adapted for the stage by Nia Vardalos, known for “My Big Fat Greek Wedding.” The Scripps Ranch Theatre performance will run from Nov. 15 to Dec. 8, and is expected to be a popular show.
“(Advice) columnist Sugar exemplifies the lost art of listening and healing. ‘Tiny Beautiful Things’ opens our eyes to the tiny moments when the world surprises us with care,” according to a description of the plot on the theater’s website.
Pappas, who has long been a fan of Strayed’s work, agreed.
“I’ve been gifting Cheryl’s book for about 10 years,” she said. “This is my first time directing at Scripps, and I’m really excited. I’ve been directing in San Diego for about 20 years.”
The director said Strayed’s column (Dear Sugar) first appeared in the online literary magazine The Rumpus.
“For years, nobody knew who Sugar was,” she said. “When Cheryl revealed her identity (as Sugar), the letters were taken off the site, leading to the creation of the book, and eventually this play.”
In addition to “Tiny Beautiful Things,” Strayed also wrote “Wild,” which was made into a film starring act-
ress Reese Witherspoon.
“When I was asked to direct this play, it was an immediate yes,” Pappas said. “I’ve been a fan of Dear Sugar for years and have gifted the book to everyone, from high school graduates to those going through life’s tough moments. I’ve seen the play twice already at The Grove and the Pasadena Playhouse.”
Pappas noted “Tiny Beautiful Things” is for audiences 15 and up.
“We’re living in a time of deep divisiveness. This play focuses on what connects us as humans – how we listen and how we get through tough times together. It’s about truly hearing one another,” she said.
The 90-minute play, without intermission, features local talent Jyl Kaneshiro, Michelle Marie Trester, Lisette Velandia and Max Macke. It does contain strong language and adult themes, so there’s a content advisory.
“There’s humor, but it deals with heavy moments in people’s lives,” Pappas said. “It might be too much for younger audiences.”
Show dates are as follows: Nov. 15-Dec. 8; Preview Night, Nov. 15; Opening Night, Nov. 16.
The production will be held on the campus of Alliant International University, 9783 Avenue of Nations. Contact the Scripps Ranch Theatre box office for prices, seating and more information at scrippsranchtheatre.org. Or contact patron services at (858) 395-0573.