Perfect time to catch ‘HAY FEVER!’ at Human Race.

Dayton’s beloved Human Race Theatre Company is continuing its fantastic season with Noel Coward’s ‘Hay Fever!’ I had the pleasure of asking the Artistic Director, Emily Wells, all about it!

EW: Bob Hetherington was one of the resident directors of The Human Race for the first 10 years of the company, and he’s also my directing mentor. We knew we wanted to have him back to direct this season all about family.  When it came time to select a work together, we were dishing about the theme and classic titles that might be exciting for our audience to see our spin. Noël Coward’s HAY FEVER, with its family behaving badly, seemed like just the right fit!

EW: Hoping for a quiet weekend in the country with some guests, Judith and David Bliss find peace to be impossible when their children, Simon and Sorel, appear with guests of their own. A houseful of misunderstandings, games, and irrational tempers ensues as the quiet weekend comes to a hilarious and exhausting end.

EW: I hope we’re all aware of how our words and actions affect those around us, but if we’re not, we’ll definitely sympathize with the guests who are treated badly by their hosts.  You may see how Mr. Coward’s work has influenced modern comedies like “Modern Family” and “Schitt’s Creek” among others.

EW: This script is over 100 years old, but it feels as fresh as yesterday. Bob was able to flip the gender of a key character, adding a flair that I think would delight Mr. Coward. For a script like this, we also looked for great physical comedy skills, and timing, timing, timing!

EW: Giddy, laughing, and just maybe a slightly better host for their next party.

EW: We want to see folks turn out for our 40th birthday party on the 28th – Certified Human Night. Come as you are with a dash of 80’s fashion, and help us celebrate turning 40! Then, in June, The Hot Wing King by Katori Hall is going to be HOT! Gorgeous cast, a little spicy romance, and family drama – it’s the show everyone will be talking about into summer.

D9: Wishing you so much success with the rest of your season. Any thoughts for your audiences?                                                         EW: Audiences are our special sauce, so if you’ve not been to see us in a while – come see us!  We’ve got pricing for every budget, and Parent’s Day Out for families.  Next season will be announced very soon and we can’t wait to share what we’re cooking up for you.

D9: Thank you, Emily. Hay Fever is playing at the Loft Theatre April 8 – 19, 2026. For ticket info visit: https://www.daytonlive.org/