Villain in "Tuck" is Really One of the Good Guys

Photo: Virgil Hobbs of Anderson in "Tuck Everlasting". Photo courtesy of Electric City Playhouse.

At Electric City Playhouse (ECP) in Anderson, people may not see Virgil Hobbs going about his volunteer work, yet everybody passing the theatre can view the results. Known around the Playhouse as the "Marquee Man", Virgil visits the theatre before and after every production to change the lettering on the theatre's marquee.

Virgil jokes that his behind-the-scenes visits are not always stealthy since he frequently trips the theatre’s security alarm. Virgil has been (somewhat) quietly updating the marquee for at least three years. In speaking of his dedication to keeping ECP's "face" current, ECP President Sharon Schultz commented that it feels like Virgil has "always been here".

As a person who "does more than climb ladders", Virgil is a former ECP Board Member and enjoys performing. He has appeared in roles at ECP, Clemson Little Theatre, Greenwood Community Theatre, Hart County Community Theatre, and Savannah River Productions.

Currently, Virgil can be seen as the delightfully villainous "Man in the Yellow Suit" in ECP's production of "Tuck Everlasting". The show is experiencing sell-out houses, thanks in part to Virgil's sales efforts. As of last count, he has sold seventy tickets to his fellow members of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. Virgil may also hold the record for a fan visiting from the greatest distance, with his dad coming from Maryland to see "Tuck".

Virgil notes in his "Tuck" bio that, “Villains are, without question or debate, the most fun roles of any thespian pursuit." While he may have a penchant for treachery on stage, this U.S. Navy Veteran and generous volunteer is a true friend of the theatre.

Audiences can see Virgil in "Tuck Everlasting" through Sunday, February 3 at ECP. Tickets and information at https://ecplayhouse.com.