9-Ball
May 18, 2026
A friend of a friend suggested I see a play written by Art Devine and performed at the Cape Repertory Theatre in Brewster. Forty-something years ago Art and I were in training to become nursing home administrators. I ran that race for twenty years; Art ventured down a different path.
9-Ball is the saga of two men who exchange identities and face the consequences. It takes place during Vietnam, when one man goes off to war and the other to prison. It’s a powerful piece, based on a true story. This is the 25th anniversary of its original release on the Cape in 2001.
I chose to go to the show yesterday. And I’m glad I did.
Yesterday, May 17, 2026, marked the hundredth production of the play. Obviously, it resonates. It is powerful, but not so tragic as it is realistic. There are glimpses of humor. The story moves quickly. The cast is agile and able; the play is filled with action. It holds you.
After yesterday’s performance there was a q & a with Art center stage, surrounded by the cast, ten young men in their early twenties.
I don’t like to speak in public, unless it’s a planned event. Yesterday, after a dozen or so people offered their solace and memories of Vietnam, I raised my hand. I noted when the lights went up, I could see how young the cast was. I appreciated the humor. And I congratulated Art on a job well done, very well done.
I kept speaking, now addressing the audience.
I said that at the intermission, as I meandered out of the theatre, with my back to the crowd, arms suddenly reached around me and Art was right there, hugging me. He recognized me 45 years after working with me in 1980. That kind of reception was unexpected and greatly appreciated.
I wrapped my comments apologizing for having to leave the party early; I live on the Vineyard and have to catch the boat home for dinner. Then I went up to shake Art’s hand; he hugged me again, and the crowd applauded.
9-Ball is at the Cape Repertory Theatre through May 31. Don’t wait until the 50th anniversary to see it.
Tom Dresser
