'Deer Camp' will provide laughs at County Seat

Fans of musical theater and deer hunting may be able to agree on one thing: “Deer Camp” is a hoot. Next weekend, the County Seat Theater Company will debut its production of “Deer Camp,” a musical comedy written by Gene Jurek and music by Doug Spartz.

Four buddies are enjoying their annual deer hunting trip, but this year is different. After 15 years of them coming home with nothing but a hangover, their wives have given them an ultimatum: bag a deer or your deer camp days are over. Only one hurdle stands in their way — none of them know how to hunt. Do they buy one? Steal one? Could they possibly try to … shoot one?

The story begins as Doogski (played by Bard Day), Diesel (Sean Biskey) and Moose (Gregg Campbell), along with their mortician pal, Digger (Justin Dinger), are slowly waking up on the last day of their annual week at the shack and are about to go through the most unforgettable day of their lives.

Starting with a slightly fuzzy recollection of the night before, Doogski and Digger break into an off-key version of “We Sang Too Much Again,” which provides a great clue as to how these self-named mighty hunters solve all their problems.

With this wacky troupe, it seems the only ones safe in the woods are the deer, but with song and dance, a bit of chance and some audience interaction, their prayers are answered just as they run out of beer.

The County Seat Theater Company will present local performances of “Deer Camp” at the Encore Performing Arts Center in Cloquet at 7 p.m. Sept. 29 and 30 and Oct. 5 and 6, and at 2 p.m. Oct. 1, 7 and 8. Tickets can be reserved by calling the box office at 218-878-0071 or online at http://www.countyseattheater.com.

Prior to the show, audience members can stroll through the art gallery and view art from local artists. This production has featured works of art by Karen Anderson, who has been painting watercolors for over 30 years.

“I seek to capture and express the beauty of the North Shore landscape, often focusing on light and reflections,” Anderson said. “The dear and interesting friends I meet along the way are the best thing about my art experience.” There will be an art opening 6-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28 at the Encore.