'Evening with Jimmy Stewart' slated at Imagination Theatre

Professional actor Steve Nevil will present his funny and touching tribute to the legendary actor Jimmy Stewart on Sept. 16 and 17 at 7:30 p.m. at Imagination Theater in Placerville.Nevil, a veteran of stage and screen, has appeared on "Lou Grant," "Cheers," "Murder She Wrote," "Moonlighting" and "Quantum Leap." He was also able to work with Stewart, his boyhood idol in 1989.In the performance, Nevil lovingly and respectfully transforms himself into the legendary star, as he reminisces about his journey from small-town kid to World War II fighter pilot to lanky Hollywood actor and loveable movie legend.The living room set is carefully and accurately designed and decorated with authentic furniture and memorabilia from Stewart's life and times. Some items were given to Nevil by the Stewart family.A copy of a painting of Gloria Stewart, Jimmy's beloved wife, hangs over the mantle. The original was painted by actress Claudette Colbert.Nevil conceived this journey through the beloved actor's wonderful life and adapted it with longtime friend, Ted Snyder, who also directed the tribute. The show has been presented in Los Angeles, New York and recently played at the Sierra Repertory Theatre's Fallon House in Columbia.The play was approved by Stewart's children, Michael, Judy and Kelly. After seeing a matinee, Kelly Stewart wrote to Nevil, saying, "You were wonderful. It's a touching, lovely performance, the set is perfect, and you deserve congratulations."Imagination Theater is located on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. Ticket prices are $15 for all seats. For more information or reservations, call the Imagination Theater box office at (530) 642-0404 or visit www.imagination-theater.org.