Mixed offerings on tap for Iowa Theatre Artists Company

AMANA - Since Tom Johnson and Meg Merckens haven't found a buyer yet for their Iowa Theatre Artists Company home, the couple won't have to take their shows on the road as previously planned.

Instead of the full season they have been mounting since 2009 in the Barn Restaurant at 4709 220th Trail, they will stage a mix of productions. On the docket are two full shows - 'Dates with a Nut” and 'Outside Mullingar” - two book-in-hand productions - 'The War of the Worlds” and 'The Great Tennessee Monkey Trial" - and comedy and musical performances from guests artists.

'Until it sells, the ITAC building provides a great venue for that while generating some income to pay the bills,” Johnson said in a statement to patrons.

'Dates with a Nut,” starring Merckens and Tom Milligan, runs Fridays through Sundays, July 24 to Aug. 9 and Aug. 21 to 30, with a twist. ITAC is teaming up with the Ox Yoke Inn to offer a $45 'Dinner plus Theatre” package for all performances. Patrons will dine at the Ox Yoke, then go to the theater for the performance and dessert. A $25 theater-only option is available for Sunday matinees. Reservations are required at (319) 622-3441.