‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ to open in Milford Feb. 7

Second Street Players will present “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” from Friday to Sunday, Feb. 7 to 9, and Feb. 14 to 16, at the Riverfront Theater, 2 S. Walnut St., Milford.

Based on the celebrated novel by Ken Kesey, the stage adaptation by Dale Wasserman explores the brutality of life in a mental institution with humor, candor and unforgettable characters.

Directed by Marge Ventura with Assistant Director Ann Nichols, Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7 p.m., and Sunday shows begin at 2 p.m.

After being convicted of a petty crime, a charming, rebellious rogue named McMurphy contrives to serve his sentence in a mental institution rather than a prison. However, he soon realizes his mistake through clashes with the authoritarian head nurse. Despite Nurse Ratched's strict reign, McMurphy attempts to do away with the restrictive routines and lead patients out of their insecurities. He ultimately stages a revolt, bringing a small ray of hope to the other patients, but his insubordination has its consequences.

McMurphy is portrayed by Scott Hammer and Nurse Ratched by Susannah Griffin. Rounding out the cast are Lauren David, Greg Ellis, Jakob Faulkner, David Hall, Billy Horwitz, Jay Jimenez, Elida Knoll, Alan Lane, Donnie Lonski, Michaela Naulty, Arthur Paul, Michael Schmiedlin, Zachary Shamblin, Morgan Shank and Luke Rowan Stutzman. Patrons are advised that this show is suited for mature audiences and contains strong language.

For more information, go to secondstreetplayers.com.