CAST MEMBERS rehearse Sue Hanson’s musical Sugar’s Folly which opens this weekend at the Northport Community Arts Center. Proceeds raised through ticket sales will help fund the Northport Area Museum. Sue Hanson’s rewritten musical Sugar’s Folly will take the stage this weekend and next at the Northport Community Arts Center (NCAC).

Hanson has added new characters and writtten all new music for the script. The reworked musical features 15 songs and according to Hanson, plenty of intrigue, mystery and love.

With only a few short days before opening night, Hanson is confident and excited, something she attributes to her cast.

“I’m so pleased with the group of actors I have,” Hanson said. “They’re a really cohesive group.

“They interact well together and have even become friends outside of rehearsals.”

Portraying the title character, Sugar, is Kristin Thomas Frank who returns to the NCAC stage after her performance in last year’s The Promise Kept. Frank’s character moves to Northport in hope of turning an old house she purchased into a bed and breakfast.

While Gomer, the local handyman is busy working on the B&B, Sugar takes a job at Barb’s Bakery where most of the play’s action takes place.

Opposite Frank is Dan Bruining, who is also making a return appearance to the NCAC stage. Bruining portrays the play’s romantic lead and Hanson is excited about the pair's chemistry on stage.

“It’s a pleasure to watch them,” she said. “They’re really almost pros, they’re so good.”

The cast took the stage for the first time in a rehearsal last week, giving them the opportunity to finally see their sets.

“Everything is just great,” Hanson added. “I couldn’t expect more. Sharon Hall did an excellent job with everything.”

Showtimes for this Saturday and next Saturday are 8 p.m. while the Sunday shows are at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under and can be purchased at the Northport Area Museum, from any Northport Area Heritage Association board member or at the door. Play proceeds go to the Northport Area Heritage Association (NAHA) to help fund museum operations.

Hanson and those involved with the play have worked hard at getting the word out and she foresees a good turnout for her 9th play in the area.

“I expect to fill the place!” she said with a faux airiness. “This play is a good way to get your mind off of the things going on in the world and just have a little fun.

“We hope everyone can come out.”