WAKEFIELD – Have you heard the rumors? This August the Contemporary Theater Company arrives in Wakefield with knee-slapping comedy “Rumors” and an arts festival fun for everyone.

The company presented “Rumors” in 2005 as its inaugural show. An instant fan favorite, this classic comedy by Neil Simon proved so popular that it’s coming back, this year under a tent at Saugatucket Park.

What starts as a mundane dinner party hosted by the deputy mayor of New York City quickly takes a turn for the worse when one man turns up dead and the guests take concealing the affair into their own hands. Be prepared to laugh as these dinner guests from the upper echelon of society struggle to hide the situation from the police and media.

The dynamic cast includes Stephanie Roger, Terrence Simpson and Stephen Strenio of Kingston; Grace Danna, Patrick Hayes, Laura Kennedy and Ashley Macamaux of Wakefield; Calvin Campany of North Kingstown; Kaitlyn Vollucci of Providence and Nevan Richard of Cheshire, Conn. Company Artistic Director Christopher J. Simpson, of Kingston, directs.

“This play started it all and we are thrilled to present ‘Rumors’ again,” Simpson said. “We are particularly excited that the performance will anchor a larger arts festival in partnership with the Wakefield Downtown Merchants Association and South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce.”

A variety of activities will start before audience members take their seats for “Rumors.” Activities outside the tent are slated to include face painting, yoga, karate demonstrations, music and more. Admission to these events is free.

“Rumors” will show Aug. 12, Aug. 13 and Aug. 14 at 7 p.m. A matinee performance will take place Sunday, Aug. 15 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15. Saugatucket Park is located at 99 High St. in Wakefield, R.I. in front of Wakefield Elementary School, and is handicapped accessible. For tickets or more information visit www.TheContemporaryTheater.com or call (401) 228-5175.

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