Hollister native Kirk Ward’s one-man show opens tonight
Theatergoers checking out Kirk Ward’s one-man show, “3 Stories Tall,” this weekend will experience a tale of hope, dreams, being chased with scissors by his grandma and 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 his 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 life. Not long after, he flunked out of junior college and ended up selling shoes.
“Three Stories Tall,” which he wrote and performs, is a comedy about the crazy adventures his life has taken him on. Despite off-the-wall tales of working for a lamp maker who was inspired by channeled aliens, or his time living in a tool shed in the Mission district of San Francisco, Ward said “3 Stories Tall” is completely based on his time in Hollister. Originally performed at Comedy Central Theater, Galaza Theater and the Lillian Theater in Los Angeles, Ward has returned to San Benito County 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 spend most of his time concentrating on the show.
“I’ve had lunch at Dona 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.”
“Three Stories Tall” opens April 22 and runs until May 2. There will be only one Thursday performance on April 22 and performances the week after will start Friday, April 30 and end May 2. Saturday matinees are at 2 p.m. and Sunday matinee performances are at 3 p.m. All evening performances start at 8 p.m.
Ticket prices are $15 for adults and $13 for students and seniors.
El Teatro Campesino is located at 705 Fourth Street in San Juan Bautista. Our box office is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Group rates are available.
Due to adult language and subject matter, El Teatro Campesino Theater suggests this production is not appropriate for children under 13.
