Understudy crams to fill role for final performance

McCOOK, Nebraska -- More than 1,000 people attended the five performances of "South Pacific."

However, Sunday's final show by Southwest Nebraska Community Theatre was the most dramatic and heart-warming for the audience. The major performer, Greg Hepp, suffered a stroke about 1 a.m., Sunday and now is at Community hospital. At 6:30 a.m., Doug Ohlson was asked to perform the role of the French planter, Emile.

The final performance took place at 2 p.m. Sunday at the McCook High School Auditorium with more than 200 in the audience. Director Don Harpst explained the situation to them. The show opened and what followed was an overwhelming and emotional expression of appreciation for how well Ohlson performed. Music director Christy Stevens and Harpst worked with him beginning at 8:15 a.m. and he was joined by the female lead of Nellie, Barbara Leising, to acquaint him with stage action until 11:15. In three hours he had to cram in three months of energy to perform, sing and dance. New costumes were found by Janet Kool.

Greg Hepp had already thrilled four audiences with outstanding performances and in the words of the directors, "It was as if the role was written just for him."

Sunday afternoon, Doug Ohlson performed under tremendous pressure, book in hand, but with amazing talent.

"It was a special moment for the actors and audience to experience heart-warming appreciation for someone that stepped up and carried the load," Harpst said. He added, "Our prayers go out to Greg and Janet Hepp." Janet was also the show's assistant director, props manager, back stage helper and in charge of publicity.

"All of the actors performed at their highest level and honored their missing friends."