Theatergoers checking out Kirk Ward
’s one-man show, “3 Stories Tall,” this weekend will experience
a tale of hope, dreams and a man being chased with scissors by his
grandma. They’ll also hear a tale of this same man one day finding
himself in the middle of the Nevada desert face-to-face with his
estranged father and a killer
on the run named Troy.
Theatergoers checking out Kirk Ward’s one-man show, “3 Stories Tall,” this weekend will experience a tale of hope, dreams and a man being chased with scissors by his grandma.
They’ll also hear a tale of this same man one day finding himself in the middle of the Nevada desert face-to-face with his estranged father and a killer on the run named Troy.
The best part about Ward’s crazy tales? They’re all true.
“I love telling stories,” Ward said. “It’s really great to be able to take the crazy things that happen to you on a daily basis and express them in this way. I admire the art form so much.”
Back in 1989, Kirk Ward was an athletic, popular San Benito High School student. He reigned over campus as student body president, captain of the varsity football team and captain of the varsity wrestling team.
Upon graduation, he left his days of hanging out in the Nob Hill parking lot and Quien Sabe water tower and headed for the Big City.
Not long after, he flunked out of junior college and ended up selling shoes.
“3 Stories Tall,” which he wrote and performs, is a comedy about the crazy adventures his life has taken him on. Although a couple of the off-the-wall tales take place elsewhere, Ward said “3 Stories Tall” is completely based on his time in Hollister.
Originally performed in Los Angeles, Ward has returned to San Benito County to tell it like it is.
Ward said Hollister has given him a lot of material over the years.
“I think small towns are just right for finding original characters,” he said. “You know, when I was growing up here, Hollister was just my hometown, but it wasn’t until I left and came back that I saw how much character this town has.”
Ward will perform at El Teatro Campesino, which he praised as one of the most highly-respected theaters in the country.
“I brought this show to the area because I had the time and because I was going to be able to perform at this theater,” he said.
“I really want
people to see this show because it is like no other and to support this great theater.”
While back home, Ward said he will catch up with some old friends, but he plans to spend most of his time concentrating on the show.
“I’ve had lunch at Doña Esther’s and a sandwich at the Bistro, but most of my time will be spent working on the show,” he said. “It takes a lot of energy out of me.”
“3 Stories Tall” opened April 22 and runs through Sunday.
Due to adult language and subject matter, the theater suggests the show is not appropriate for children under 13.
“3 Stories Tall” will be showing at El Teatro Campesino Playhouse, at 705 Fourth St. in San Juan Bautista through Sunday. Showtimes are 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, 3 p.m. on Sunday, and 8 p.m. tonight. Tickets are $15 for adults and $13 for students and seniors. For reservations or more information, call (831) 623-2444.
