Coming off the resounding success of the group’s first production of 2025, the Highlands Cashiers Players are set to present “Social Security,” a heartwarming comedy by Andrew Bergman, from May 15 – 18 and May 22 – 25 at the Martin Lipscomb Theater within the Highlands Performing Arts Center.
The Players kicked off the season with several packed shows for “The Outsider” and the new production of “Social Security” is sure to build on that momentum.
The production is directed by Donna Cochran, with Cathy Myers serving as the stage manager and Jayne Pleasants as the line coach.
Social Security tells the story of Barbara and David Kahn, sophisticated art gallery owners in Manhattan, whose orderly lives are disrupted when Barbara’s suburban sister, Trudy, and her husband, Martin, bring their eccentric and aging mother, Sophie, to live with them.
This arrangement allows Trudy and Martin to address issues with their rebellious daughter. As Sophie acclimates to the Kahn’s upscale lifestyle, she undergoes a surprising transformation after meeting an elderly artist. The play poignantly explores themes of aging, family dynamics, and unexpected romance in later life, illustrating how even the most structured lives can be profoundly impacted — and enriched — by family and love.
The cast features April Getz, recently seen as Paige in “The Outsider,” portraying Barbara Kahn, alongside Ricky Siegel, who played Hector in “Squabbles” as David Kahn. Lorine Spencer, known for her role as Libby Ruth in “Always a Bridesmaid,” takes on the character of Trudy. Veteran actor David Spivey portrays Trudy’s accountant husband, Martin, while Emily Wright plays Sophie Greengrass, the mother of Barbara and Trudy. Spivey and Wright recently performed together in HCP’s Valentine’s Dinner Theatre.
Rounding out the cast is Matthew Eberz, who, despite his extensive acting experience, is making his debut on the HCP stage as artist Maurice Koenig.
Performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday will take place at 7 p.m. with Sunday matinees going curtains up at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at highlandscashiersplayers.com or by calling 828-526-9047. The Highlands Performing Arts Center is located at 507 Chestnut Street.