Did you grow up watching the TV show “Happy Days?”

Then you’ll remember the wistful and naturally comedic Donny Most, one of Hollywood’s most cherished television actors due to his memorable role as funny-guy Ralph Malph.

Drayton Entertainment has announced that Most will play Serge in the upcoming production of the hit play “ART” at the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse from October 2 to October 20.

“Happy Days” was a defining sitcom of the ’70s and ’80s, airing 255 half-hour episodes. The show made stars out of its young cast and remains one of the highest-rated American TV series of all time.

Most’s lovable, wise-cracking character Ralph Malph was an instant audience favourite. But did you know that Most started out as a guest star and as a testament to his talent he was promoted to a series regular in the second season.

Most’s love for acting developed in third grade, after watching the “Al Jolson Story.” Later he would drop out of college in his senior year to pursue his dream.

An avid stage performer, Most has appeared in many plays and musicals including the National Tour of “Damn Yankees” with Dick Van Dyke, the west coast premiere of “Strike Up The Band” and “Barefoot in the Park” with Maureen O’Sullivan to name a few.

In “ART,” Most will play Serge, who all of a sudden becomes a modern art collector. Much to his friends’ dismay, he purchases a large, expensive, painting. The abstract painting sparks a fierce debate about the value of art, and the three friends square off, testing the limits of their friendship.

In addition to Most, the cast for “ART” will also include Broadway performer Lee MacDougall as Marc, Serge’s opinionated friend who is appalled by his extravagant purchase. A veteran actor, MacDougall originated the role of Nick in the acclaimed Canadian musical “Come From Away,” playing the role in the initial Toronto production and for two years on Broadway. Among his many credits with Drayton Entertainment, MacDougall appeared as Mickey in the Canadian premiere of “Rocky: The Musical” earlier this season.

Accomplished actor Jeffrey Wetsch will take on the role of Serge and Marc’s more level-headed friend Yvan who repeatedly gets caught in the middle of their heated dispute. Among his other stage credits, Wetsch has appeared in a number of Drayton Entertainment productions including”Tuesdays with Morrie,” “Twelve Angry Men” and “Death of a Salesman.”

This trifecta of actors will be led by Director Max Reimer.

Says Alex Mustakas, artistic director of Drayton Entertainment, “Based on the incredible response when George Wendt was in St. Jacobs in 2017, I recommend that patrons buy tickets as soon as possible.”

Touted as one of the most successful plays ever, “ART” is a serious comedy that explores the dynamics of male friendship and the perceived worth of art.

The three roles in the show are all considered coveted parts for actors, and as such, productions of the show often attract celebrity talent. Previous productions have included well-known actors such as Albert Finney, Alan Alda, Rufus Sewell, Victor Garber, and Alfred Molina.

Details, Details:
ART
October 2 to October 20
Get details and tickets online
Call the Box Office at (519) 747-7788 or toll free at 1-855-372-9866