Over the past three years, Arts of the Pamlico has broadened and increased its collaborations with East Carolina University degree programs to increase access to a vibrant menu of live theatre productions, from “Alice in Wonderland” for kids to opera theater for adults, to haunted tales like “Turn of the Screw” onstage this weekend at the historic Turnage Theatre. This weekend on the Turnage stage, “Turn of the Screw” tells the story of how the young governess is hired by a man who has become responsible for his young nephew and niece after the deaths of their parents.

ECU School of Theatre and Dance presents this haunting tale with students Kelly Clare Toland portraying the Governess and Connor Gerney starring as The Man. The production is directed by Gregory Furano of ECU. Funaro has worked professionally as an actor in New York City and all over the U.S. in regional theater, summer stock and national tours. He holds a BA in Theatre from the University of New Hampshire, a master’s degree in Theatre History from Brown University, an MFA in acting from the FSU/Asolo Conservatory and is a graduate of the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre. His acting credits are both impressive and extensive.

Costumer and AOP Artistic Director Jeffery Phipps worked with the cast at both the ECU and Turnage locations to support bringing the show to life on the Turnage Theatre stage. Phipps is a costume designer and costume historian who has been practicing his trade since the mid-1970s. After studying at Berea College and The University of Texas at Austin, he began his professional career at the University of Miami in Miami, Florida. He has worked professionally in Florida, Texas, Kentucky, Connecticut, New York, Ohio, Virginia, Delaware and Pennsylvania. He has worked in live theater, film, dance, television and opera. As a costume historian, Phipps has lectured for organizations all along the East Coast. His amazing collection of historic and theatrical garments will be on exhibit in AOP’s new Costume Museum on a rotating basis. AOP’s new exhibit museum currently features gowns and accessories from well-known films and TV programs. Phipps was involved in restoration of the Turnage Theatre and led the design of the backstage area in support of the performing arts, which are taking place on the Turnage stage almost every month thanks in large part to his passion and support of the arts in Beaufort County and at ECU. Phipps leads the AOP Theatre Task Group and has served on the AOP Board of Directors for several terms.

“Turn of the Screw” opens Friday at 7:30 p.m. and will have repeat performances Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $9 cash or $11 with a credit card. To purchase tickets or learn more about the show, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org or call 252-946-2504. AOP is located in the Turnage Theatre at 150 W. Main St., Washington.

Art Beat shares information about programs and efforts of your regional arts council, Arts of the Pamlico, and arts events at the historic Turnage Theatre and across the county. AOP presents and supports the provision of arts programming for the community and region. AOP also partners with area organizations and groups to leverage the arts to share information and learn about opportunities.

Debra Torrence is the executive director of Arts of the Pamlico.