Stage set for `Down the Road' with Dave Allen at Theatre in The Wings

Dave Allen, president and CEO of the YMCA of Central East Ontario, is taking to the stage once again to pursue his love for all things Thespian.

In his off hours, Allen is wellknown for his work on the stage as an actor who often plays the part of the frazzled but lovable husband, a working stiff, the guy next door.

However, it got to the point where Allen began to feel typecast so he went looking for a darker, more sinister character to portray.

He came across Lee Blessing's play “Down the Road” and the role of convicted serial killer, William Reach. Meanwhile, his daughter Teresa Allen was looking for a play to direct at Theatre in The Wings in downtown Belleville.

“Down the Road” seemed perfect. Auditions were held in December and Allen came prepared to show a creepy side. He was immediately cast as Bill Reach.

In Blessing 's play, Reach is being interviewed in prison for a tell-all book by two journalists – Iris and Dan Henniman – who are also husband and wife. It's a complex, riveting psychological drama that goes beyond the typical thriller, as Blessing turns a mirror on society's obsession with serial killers, while often ignoring their victims.

As Iris and Dan scrutinize Reach, Reach seems to be scrutinizing them…and Blessing seems to be scrutinizing us. The production is masterfully played by Allen as Reach, along with Serafima Ostrovskaya who plays Dan and Jocelyn LoSole who plays Iris.

Under the direction of Teresa Marie Allen, the intensity starts high and continues building throughout. The play will have broad appeal to those who are curious about how criminal minds work.

“Down the Road” runs at Theatre in The Wings at 30 Bridge Street East in Belleville with evening shows at 7:30 p.m. on March 23-25 and March 30-April 1, and matinee shows at 2 p.m. on March 26 and April 2.

Tickets are $20 each and available online through Eventbrite. ca or by calling (613) 403-7329 to reserve.