Hank & Jesus

A drama-comedy by Janet Preus
with songs by Janet Preus and Bryan Cumming

Set in rural Minnesota in the 1990s, this alternative holiday play celebrates simple miracles: recovery, reuniting with family, friendship, and writing a great country tune. “Hank & Jesús” (Spanish pronunciation) is about redemption in the face of failure; the importance of family, even when relationships have eroded; and the value of hanging on to our dreams. Both poignant and funny, this play celebrates regular folks overcoming challenges and creating a hopeful future.

The Prairie Wind Players cast includes Daniel Olson, Fergus Falls, as “Hank” and Steven Collazos, Barrett, as “Jesús.” Melanie Courrier, Kensington; Annie Wehrly, Elbow Lake; David Ehlers, Elbow Lake; Kayleigh Odegaard, Barrett; Chloe Woida, Alexandria; and Tim Ray, Barrett complete the cast. Emily Courrier, Kensington, serves as production assistant and stage manager.

Written by Janet Preus, with songs by Preus and Byan Cumming, Nashville, Preus also directs. She is a native of Fergus Falls and was a teacher and drama director at Minnesota State Community and Technical College (Fergus Falls) for many years. She now lives near Laporte, Minn.

Comments from a Minnesota Fringe Festival production:

“Lovely, funny, and sharp. Janet Preus’ cast puts just the right spin on these mostly-Minnesota characters who orbit the world of Hank, aka Trevor, a regular guy who’s just trying to make his way in the world by way of songwriting, staying sober, and regular employment. It never gets preachy or 12-steppy but keeps the tone light while asking us some surprisingly deep questions. You’ll find yourself singing along at the end, even though it’s a song you’ve never heard before.”

“A dash of “Christmas in July” for Fringe viewers featuring a Northern MN family we all probably recognize. and original Country songs that are bad when they need to be funny and good when they need to be good.”

“A very clever twist on the holiday play.”

“Everyone needs a personal Hay-Soos”