First-time playwright Linda James Hein has crafted a semi-autobiographical play entitled The Ox Herder, which opens with its World Premiere at The Sutter Creek Theatre on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 7:30 PM.  The GalaHerder is inspired by Linda’s life as a court reporter during the time she reported Calaveras County’s Charles Ng criminal case in the early 1990s.  The Ng case is only a strong thread in the fabric that has been woven into a play which brings two people together in an atmosphere of life, death, and rebirth.

Playing Gerald is local talent, Steve Cannon, who won the “Best Actor” award for his performance in Volcano Theatre’s Shadowlands. Playing Laura is Sarah C. Broyles, who is a recent Theatre Arts graduate of Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. The Ox Herder is directed by Monica MacLean, Artistic Director for The Sutter Creek Theatre.  Monica has been involved in theatre arts as a professional actor and director for over 30 years. Friday will mark the Gala Opening supporting the Award given for best original play at the Mother Lode Drama Festival, April 2008. The Gala performance will be followed by a reception with local wines, champagne, and cheese. For more information, go to www.suttercreektheatre.com. Opening/Fundraiser this night will kick off a four-weekend run with 13 performances, including matinees. The Ox