Jake Holliday Purcell, Blackfriars Theatre, and Million Dollar Quartet

Jake Holliday Purcel

Photo credit: Christie Spring

Join host Robert Hammond as he talks to Jake Holliday Purcell about his starring role in the Blackfriars Theatre production ofThe Mystery of Irma Vep.  Playing at Blackfriars Theatre from October 22^nd through November 11^th, The Mystery of Irma Vep is a definitive spoof of Gothic melodramas; a quick change marathon in which two actors play all the roles, including a sympathetic werewolf, a vampire, and an Egyptian princess brought to life when her tomb is opened. Written by the late Charles Ludlam, the production is directed by Danny Hoskins and also stars Ed Popil.  

Jake Holliday Purcell The Mystery of Irma Vep is Purcell’s debut on the Blackfriars stage. Although a Rochester native, he is a graduate from Montana State University (Bozeman) with a degree in film/television production.  As a theater minor, he has been featured in productions of Biloxi Blues, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, as well as directing The Real Inspector Hound. Local credits include: Once Upon a Mattress (Sir Harry), Hair (Berger), Beauty and the Beast (Gaston), The Fantasticks (Henry "the actor"), Evita, and West Side Story (Dance Corps).

Blackfriars, in their 60^th season, is proud to invite you to their new theater located in Rochester's "theatre row" along Main Street. Each year, they produce six shows, including one musical.  They are a committed group of performers, technicians, and volunteers who are proud to bring live entertainment to Rochester. 

Inspired by the true story of the famed recording session that brought together Rock-n-Roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins for the first and only time, Million Dollar Quartet will be in Rochester from October 25^th through the 30^th.  Derek Keeling, in the role of Johnny Cash, and Lee Ferris, in the role of Carl Perkins, will be on the program to discuss the smash hit Broadway musical.