The Willow Glen­based troupe officially formed three years ago; Rumors is its first major production.

"We have a 12-member artistic council and have produced a series of original staged adaptations, improv nights and other small productions," says Susan Overland, co-founder of Center Stage Productions. "We are thrilled to bring this caliber of play to the San Jose community, specifically Willow Glen."

Like most successful endeavors, Center Stage Productions started with a dream and a vision. In this case, it was co-founder Topher Busenburg's desire to turn an unused stage into a platform for creative expression.

"Four years ago, I was visiting the Center for Spiritual Living when I noticed a stage covered with boxes," says Topher Busenburg, who previously worked in Los Angeles as a set designer for television, film and trade-show productions. "I thought, 'Why not clear it and use it?' From this point on, everything started falling into place."

Busenburg says he was pleased, but not surprised, when lights, sound equipment and other production necessities were donated to get Center State Productions off the ground.

"That is what happens when you have a dream," he says.

Center Stage Productions operates with a strictly all-volunteer staff including sound and light engineers, actors, directors and stage manager.

"We encourage members of our community to get involved in whatever capacity they are comfortable," Overland says. "Because of this, we've empowered people to try different things and discovered we have a huge well of talent to draw from."

For some, Rumors is their first experience on the stage.

"I did a staged reading and took an acting class taught by Susan here at the center and discovered I really liked acting," amateur actor Pat Duran says. "I took a chance and auditioned and got the part of Cookie Cusack. I am nervous but very excited."

For others it is the rediscovery of a lost passion.

"I acted in high school and did some in college, but thanks to my experiences with Center Stage Productions, I decided that I want to pursue acting as a career," Abigail Schairer says.

For Bryan Freeman, directing Rumors brings him full circle.

"Rumors was the first show I ever acted in," says Freeman, who recently honed his directing skills with the staff at Foothill Theatre Conservatory. "Just reading it makes me laugh out loud. The play is a sophisticated farce rich with some of Simon's wittiest dialogue. It is a challenge as a director to get the timing right."

Freeman is also proud to be working with assistant director Drew Campbell and stage manager Victoria Ann Spencer. Usually on stage performing, Spencer, a student at Westmont High School, is enjoying her first experience behind the scenes.

"As a stage manager, I am the go-between for the actors and the director," she says. "I've learned a lot. I still prefer acting but value this experience, because it gives me a greater respect for stage managers and what they do."

Overland hopes everyone will have a chance to catch one of the six performances.

"We've got a great director, fantastic actors, wonderful stage crew and a script that is hilarious," she says.

The special night is scheduled for Aug. 26. It is being dubbed Pay What You Can Night. Show-goers are encouraged to make whatever contribution they can.

"We want everyone to be able to see the performance," Busenburg says. "Pay What You Can Night is our gift to the community and provides that opportunity."

"Rumors" runs Aug. 20­28. There will be a champagne gala opening on Aug. 20, which includes champagne, hors d'oeuvres, dessert and a chance to mingle with the cast and crew after the show.

Tickets can be purchased by calling 408.294.1828, ext. 116, or in person at the Center for Spiritual Living. Prices are $15 for adults and $12 for seniors 65 and older and students with valid ID. Gala night tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. More information can be found by visiting www.sanjosecenter.org/ center_stage_productions.htm.