Preparations for “Welcome to the Monkey House,” a play based on the works of Kurt Vonnegut, are under way at the Butler Little Theatre.

The show, which opens Jan. 23, is a compilation of 25 short stories written by the American author between 1950 and 1969.

“The play takes four of those stories and places them in the context of an amateur theater group making them part of their season,” said director Phil Ball.

The four stories in this production are “Harrison Bergeron,” “Who Am I This Time,” which inspired the context of the play, “The Euphio Question,” and “The Kid Nobody Could Handle.” The works presented are a combination of science fiction and social commentary.

Amy Cannard of Chicora has the roles of Hazel and Grace. Her patience is what she brings to the characters to make them a success.

“A lot of life's lessons can be used in acting, but it's surprising how much of acting can be used in your life,” said Cannard, who auditioned for the challenge of it.

“I've always enjoyed science fiction and knew who Vonnegut was. When I read the script, it sounded like a good, fun test for me,” she said.

One of her tests is that of posture.

“My parents taught me good posture, but I need to be a little frumpy for one of my roles,” she said.

Cannard said she is enjoying this role. A lesson for her is not to be afraid to try something new. “There are laughs and there are tears which result in a little different way of looking at life,” she said.

The character of theater owner Doris Sawyer is played by Sue Switzer of Center Township.

“Due to a family illness, I hand over the directing reins to a door and window salesman, but I remain engaged in the auditions and the aftermath. Since there are several small plays within the play, I also briefly play a dedicated English teacher, Mrs. Crane, who is distraught when her office is trashed by a vandal,” Switzer said.

Connecting with the audience is the biggest goal. “When you work with a very simple set such as we are in this show, you really have to get your audience engaged through the characters' interactions and delivery,” Switzer said.

Another local woman who dons multiple hats for the show is Samantha Drohan of Butler, who will be sharing the stage with her daughter Olivia.

“I play Nancy who plays Susan and also Margie,” said Drohan who notes the story is a play within a play.

She said the play carries a message.

“I personally feel a common theme woven between the various plays within the show: how society shapes us for better or worse. Sometimes society can be downright judgmental or even oppressive. And other times we are presented rare opportunities to rise above circumstances and better ourselves,” she said.

The characters George and Bert are played by Gregg Crawford of Chicora.

“This show in particular is showing me how it's possible for many, many pieces to be woven together into an entertaining tapestry,” he said, noting it's a bit of a departure for him.

“This is a very interesting show. It's more toward drama on the spectrum than my usual comedic roles,” he said, adding, “I hope to keep stretching in that direction as an actor.”

Crawford last appeared as Sir Basil in the summer production of the original play by Kevin Lukacs, “The Stone House,” which was staged at the Old Stone House in Brady Township.

This show also features Olivia Cox, Shannon Donovan, Stephen Fogle, Danielle Jacobson, David Lynch, Dan McCarty and Dennis Whalen.

WHO: Butler Little TheatreWHAT: “Welcome to the Monkey House,” based on the works of Kurt VonnegutWHEN: Jan. 23 to 31, at 8:15 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and 2:30 SundayWHERE: One Howard St.TICKETS: $12, to reserve, call 724-287-6781 between 7 and 9 p.m. Mondays through FridaysINFO: www.bltgroup.org