Production History

Craig Lucas’s Prelude to a Kiss opened CST’s 10th anniversary season (1993–1994). The romantic fantasy follows Peter and Rita, whose wedding is interrupted by an elderly stranger’s kiss. An extraordinary exchange forces Peter to reconsider what it means to recognize and love another person.

CST Connections

This was Rhonda Clark’s fourth consecutive fall season opener, following Nebraska (1990), Steel Magnolias (1991), and Rumors (1992).
James Driskill later played Vito Antonucci in P.S. Your Cat Is Dead! during the same season. Marilyn Ragan played Kate Hough, while Joe Daleo served as co-set designer and technical director.
Jaymee Phillips, Regina Brinlee, and Patrick Isaac appeared in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1992). Phillips also assisted with direction, and Isaac subsequently played John Arscott in Our Country’s Good (1993).
Jody McCoy played Dabby Bryant in Our Country’s Good, with Rhonda Clark as Mary Brenham and Marilyn Ragan operating sound.
Kenneth Benton’s CST directing credits include Luv (1990), Little Footsteps (Season 7), and Love Letters (Season 9).
Suzanne Charney previously played Ethel Thayer in On Golden Pond (1988). Nick Backes later made his directing debut with Pack of Lies (1997).

Press and Photography

“‘Prelude to a Kiss’ to Open Carpenter Square’s Season” — The Oklahoman, August 27, 1993, production preview.
“‘Prelude’ Falls Short of Demands” — The Oklahoman, September 10, 1993, attributed to Franci Hart in the supplied research.

The original CST photograph identifies Kenneth Benton, Debi Hall, Julia Self, and James Driskill. Publicity photography is credited to Elaine Warner.

Special Thanks

Keith Hadlock; Seabrooks Formal Wear / Pauli Cox; Gloria Wimer and BJ Tips; Elegant Attire Rentals & Sales; Kamber’s at Penn Square Mall; Flowers By Pat; Fina’s Boot & Shoe Repair; St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Norman; Lilli Bassett; Sound Warehouse; Richard Corner / SOUNDWERKS Audio/Visual; Kelly Morris; Pons Management Group; Gary Moore and CST Volunteer Bar Staff; Magda Mashburn; Renee Preftakes; Suzanne Charney; Ron Martin; Betsy Allie; Kenny Walker; Richard Ingham.

Licensing

Produced by arrangement with Broadway Play Publishing Inc.

THEATRE UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Elaine Warner