Potter's annual Melodrama – Jack and the Frankenbeanstalk

Practicing their comedy skills, actors gathered to rehearse for Potter's upcoming "non-traditional" melodrama Monday.

This year, participants choose a different route from the traditional western melodrama they have done in the past. The cast will be portraying characters from the comedy, Jack and the Frakenbeanstalk.

A mash-up the stories of "Frankenstein" and "Jack and the Beanstalk," creates a fun and witty play.

Dr. Frankenbean, played by Kristin Kasten and Ogre (Drew Enevoldsen), have worked for 20 years to create genetically-modified beans. Some of their fellow villagers however, disapprove, the village people, a trio fashioned after the popular music group, is comprised of an Indian (Alisha Juelfs) a cowboy (Chad Steele) and a construction worker (Donica Enevoldsen.) The village people think genetically-engineered beans are a crime against nature, and they pursue the evil doctor.

Three of these beans are acquired by a young man named Jack (Barry Gaston), but instead of turning into a large beanstalk, they become the Bean Brothers, Favo (Alex Adden), Pinto (Jennifer Provance), and Garbanzo (Erika Revord), who are very reminiscent of the Marx Brothers.

"The beans are my favorite part," said Sierra Wheelock, who plays Jack's mom in the play, "with the excessive punning and constant fighting it's hilarious."

The beans help Jack make his way to the castle in the clouds and deal with the giant, played by Jacoby Bowels, while they are pursued by Dr. Frankenbean and the Ogre, who are in turn pursued by the village people.

Also in cast is Moo Moo the cow, played by Rose Nelson,The Harp, Kayle Adden and Officer Friendly played by Sidney Police officer, Cory Lenstorm.

Lenstorm said the most important part the community should know about the play, is that "it's a good time."

Drew Enevoldsen, melodrama director, said the production is the main fundraiser for the historic Legion Hall in Potter.

"The fundraising that the melodrama brings in helps us sustain the hall all year," said Envoldsen.

Hotdogs and hamburgers will be available to purchase before and during the show.

Jack and the Frankenbeanstalk will kick off Potter's Car Bowl that will be held in Potter June 25 beginning at 9 a.m. The Car Bowl will include, a car show, miniature bull riding, and a duck pin bowling tournament.

Potter's Melodrama will be held at Legion Hall in Potter, June 23, 24, and 25 with doors opening at 6 p.m.