Written by Del Shores and directed by Jeffrey L. Merriman, this funny yet touching play follows a dysfunctional Southern family as they squabble among themselves over the family fortune. Daddy (Steve Lassiter), the patriarch of a large family in the deep South, is reaching the end of life’s journey as his health and energy slip away. Under the watchful eye of Grandmother Mama Wheelis (Julie Owen), Daddy’s children return to the family home, ostensibly to show their support in their father’s final hours, but mainly because they’re eager to know how Daddy’s estate will be divided. Sara Lee (Cassie Wright) is the “old maid” daughter who has stayed at the family home as Daddy’s long-time caregiver. Evalita (Hayley Beiermeister), the high-spirited “black sheep” of the family, also has her new beau in tow, a musician and “hippie” named Harmony (Maverick King). Orville (Lanier Young), the only male sibling, has brought along his wife, the patient and long-suffering Marlene (Heidi Scherer). And Lurlene (Heather Atkins) is a minister’s wife who isn’t shy about expressing her views on sin and salvation. As the siblings and their companions bicker, Daddy announces he can’t remember where he put his will, leading to a frantic search.

“As a director, I was attracted to this play because of its humorous look at family dysfunction, love, culture, and ultimately understanding,” says Merriman. “The show has many touching and often painfully accurate moments that I was excited about trying to portray and bring to The Pearl’s stage.”

Online tickets

Tickets for Daddy’s Dyin’… Who’s Got the Will? are available now at the Pearl Theater box office and online at pearl-theater.com. The show runs for three weekends, from March 20 through April 5. Friday and Saturday night performances start at 8 p.m., and Sunday matinees start at 3 p.m.. There is also a special buy-one-get-one-free night on Thursday, March 26, at 7:30 p.m.. And there is a talkback with the cast and director on Sunday, March 22, immediately after the show.

This project is presented through a special arrangement with Samuel French. This project is supported by a City of Pearland Cultural Arts Grant program from the City of Pearland Convention & Visitors Bureau.