The unapologetic, outrageous, and utterly hysterical “The Great American Trailer Park Musical” is pulling into the Playhouse on August 21. With music and lyrics by David Niehls and book by Betsy Kelso, this Off-Broadway sensation turns everyday neighborhood gossip into a high-energy theatrical spectacle. Leave your expectations at the door, and get ready for a wild ride through Armadillo Acres.

The residents of this tin-can township in Starke County, Florida, aren’t just characters: they’re the narrators of their own wild lives. Norbert and Jeannie, a couple whose marriage has stalled due to Jeannie’s twenty-year bout of agoraphobia, find their routine upended when stripper on the run Pippi moves in and begins a scandalous affair with Norbert. The trailer park also plays home to a Greek-chorus-like trio of women Betty, Linoleum, and Pickles–each dysfunctional in her own right.

The arrival of Pippi’s obsessive, magic-marker-sniffing ex-boyfriend, Duke, threatens to tear the park apart. The resulting chaos eventually forces Jeannie to step outside her trailer, leading to a hilarious and heartfelt resolution about love, risk, and forgiveness. Featuring bad choices, good music, and unforgettable characters, this satirical masterpiece serves up a perfect blend of rock-and-roll energy and laugh-out-loud comedy.

“’The Great American Trailer Park Musical’ reminds us all not to take ourselves too seriously,” commented Director Oscar Pollock. “You’ll see laughter and tears. Anger and heartache. These ludicrous characters remind us that we have all fallen short at one time or another, but it’s how we choose to pick ourselves up and press on that matter most!”

Please note that this production contains adult themes, electric blue humor, and a fair amount of trashy fun. It may not be suitable for children under 16. Parental discretion is advised.

“One of my favorite things about music directing “The Great American Trailer Park Musical” has been discovering just how much heart lives beneath its comedy,” added Abby Lambert. “The score is infectious, the harmonies are surprisingly rich, and every song helps tell the story of this wonderfully eccentric community. Our cast has worked incredibly hard to bring both the humor and humanity of these characters to life, and I think audiences will find themselves laughing one moment and genuinely moved the next.”

The residents of Armadillo Acres include high school sweethearts Jeannie and Norbert Garstecki (Tara Lee Donahue and Clay Glenny) and nosey neighbors Betty, Linoleum, and Pickles (Jen Powell, Kylee Roles, and Jennifer Beaver). Rounding out the trailer-park tempest are Pippi (Ashley Stuber), a runaway dancer looking to escape away from her past, and Duke (Will Renninger), her redneck ex who’s armed, dangerous, and completely off his rocker. This is Stuber’s first production with The Playhouse.

“If you love dirty humor, you will be laughing so hard!” said cast member Beaver. This show has so many unexpected twists and turns. The music is definitely unique, sweet, and goofy! Audiences won’t be disappointed!”

The creative team includes Pollock (Director), Lambert (Musical Director), Caleb Donahue (Stage Manager), Keith Sutton (Lights), Rick Brown (Sound).

“The Great American Trailer Park Musical” takes the stage August 21-23 and August 28-30. Evening performances on Friday and Saturday will be at 7:30 pm with Sunday matinees at 2:00 pm.

Tickets for the standard performances can be purchased online via our secure LUDUS site: mcconnellstownplayhouse.ludus.com. Reservations can also be made over the phone by calling the Box Office at 814.627.0311. Ticket prices are $18 for regular admission and $16 for seniors (ages 60 and older), students (ages 6 and older), and military personnel. Payment options include cash, check, debit, or credit card. 

For more information about “The Great American Trailer Park Musical” and other upcoming productions at The Playhouse at McConnellstown, please visit www.littletheater.com or follow us on Facebook.

Get ready for an afternoon of show-stopping tunes as members of The Playhouse at McConnellstown take the stage at the Huntingdon County Fair on Saturday, August 15 at 2:00 PM.

Presenting a special showcase titled “A Celebration of the American Musical,” this family-friendly performance features a talented lineup of local performers sharing beloved hits from On and Off-Broadway shows. Whether you are a lifelong theater lover or looking for great entertainment between fair rides and food stands, this delightful revue offers something for everyone.

Musical numbers include songs from classic musicals like “Paint Your Wagon,” “1776,” “Newsies,” and “Big River” as well as contemporary productions including “American Idiot” and “Fun Home.” The cast of the upcoming Playhouse production of “The Great American Trailer Park Musical” will also perform ahead of the production run August 21-30 onstage at The Playhouse at McConnellstown.

“We are thrilled to bring a slice of the theatre to the Huntingdon County Fair,” said Meghan Whitesel, Playhouse Marketing Director. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the rich history and tradition of American musical theatre right here in our community while giving fairgoers a preview of the talent showcased at the Playhouse year-round.”

Don’t miss this one-time-only performance on the midway stage. Entrance to the show is included with general fair admission.

The Playhouse at McConnellstown has officially announced the launch of its “Raise the Roof” Capital Campaign, a targeted fundraising effort aimed at securing $30,000 for vital structural repairs. The campaign will directly fund a complete overhaul of the historic theater’s aging roof and gutter system, ensuring that Huntingdon County’s Little Theater remains protected from environmental deterioration.

As an intimate, 85-seat staple of the Central Pennsylvania cultural landscape for over forty years, The Playhouse has long served as a vital incubator for local performing arts. However, continuous wear has left the building vulnerable, prompting the organization’s leadership to begin fundraising efforts.

Jen Powell, Board Vice President of The Playhouse, emphasized the profound community infrastructure that relies on the venue’s physical preservation:

“As a nonprofit community theater, everything we do depends on the support of our audience, volunteers, donors, and community partners. Every person who walks through our doors has a different connection to The Playhouse, some met lifelong friends here, some discovered a love of performing, and some simply enjoy spending an evening with their neighbors. Our theater has been sustained by people who believe local arts matter, and we’re grateful to everyone who helps ensure it remains part of our community for years to come.”

The $30,000 campaign is structured to accept contributions of all sizes from private individuals, local business owners, and regional philanthropic groups. The Playhouse operates as a registered nonprofit entity; every dollar donated will go directly toward the brick-and-mortar capital expenses of the roofing project.

Donations are currently being accepted through multiple secure channels. Secure digital contributions can be made directly via the LUDUS ticketing platform. Patrons attending the upcoming productions of “Muffed” (June 19-21) and “The Great American Trailer Park Musical” (August 21-30) can donate in person at the box office and concession counter during any scheduled performance. Direct mail contributions can be made payable to Go West Productions and mailed to Go West Productions, PO Box 115, McConnellstown, PA 16660.

The Playhouse at McConnellstown (operating under Go West Productions) is a non-profit community theater dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality live theatrical entertainment to the residents of Huntingdon County and the surrounding Central Pennsylvania region. Run by volunteers, the theater produces a diverse annual slate of comedies, dramas, and musicals. The organization also partners with local school districts and other organizations to provide access to performing arts and arts education in Central Pennsylvania.

The Playhouse at McConnellstown is excited to announce two upcoming Teen Acting Workshops designed for aspiring thespians ages 14 and up. Whether you are just stepping onto the stage for the first time or looking to sharpen your storytelling skills, we have a session for you!

The program kicks off with Introduction to Stagecraft on June 13 from 1 PM to 4 PM. This 3-hour session is designed specifically for beginner-level thespians and covers the fundamental building blocks of theater, including basic stage directions, character roles, and blocking.

For those ready to take their skills to the next level, The Show Must Go On will be held on June 20 from 1 PM to 4 PM. This advanced workshop shifts the focus toward storytelling, scene development, and improvisation. Please note that attendees for this session must have either completed the “Intro” workshop or have previous acting experience.

Registration Details

• Registration for this event is now closed.

Questions? Reach out to the team at mail@littletheater.com for more information.

The Playhouse at McConnellstown is seeking partnerships with Huntingdon County food and beverage (F&B) establishments for its “Toast the Show: Themed Libations and Local Bites” events happening throughout the 2026 Season.

Local restaurants and bars are invited to participate in “Toast the Show” by creating themed food and/or drinks inspired by each play this season. The feature is anticipated to run for approximately 3 weeks – the week before and the 2 weeks of the performances

The Playhouse will promote businesses and features for each show on its website and social media channels, in its e-newsletter, on its digital signage. Each business will be provided with a digital copy of the production poster to display during the promotional period.

“We are very excited to continue the ‘Toast the Show’ partnership,” said Meghan Whitesel, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for The Playhouse at McConnellstown. “Last year’s inaugural run allowed us to solidify partnerships with several great establishments. We hope to add to the list this season.”

“Toast the Show” partnerships are designed to encourage patronage for the restaurants and the theater. The Playhouse will not ask any participating business to donate a portion of their sales to the theater organization. Contribution information will be provided information to establishments in case patrons want to donate to The Playhouse.

“This venture is a fun way to create unique, themed experiences that promote local businesses and increase awareness of the performing arts within the area,” added Whitesel.

The 2026 Playhouse Season and Show Information is below. Interested vendors can sign up here.

“Muffed” or The Meaningful Action Theatre Company Presents a Workshop Reading of “Muffed: A Recounting of Farmington, Maine’s 43rd Annual Chester Greenwood Day Devised by the Members of The Meaningful Action Theatre Company.”

Written by Zack Peercy,  June 12-26 (Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 pm, Sunday matinees at 2 pm)

This clever, mockumentary-style production follows an ensemble of actors as they stage the chaotic lead-up to Farmington’s eccentric celebration of Chester Greenwood, the inventor of earmuffs. The Meaningful Action Theatre Company may be fictitious, but Chester Greenwood Day is a real community celebration that happens every December in Farmington, Maine. As the performers portray a whirlwind of local residents, they uncover a web of intrigue including a bitter rivalry between the Rotary Club and the Chamber of Commerce, a rumored town curse, and a haunting by a ghostly opera singer. Equal parts comedic and heartfelt, the play explores how quirky local traditions can be the very glue that binds a community—and a theater company—together.

“The Great American Trailer Park Musical”

Music and Lyrics by David Nehls with Book by Betsy Kelso, August 21-30 (Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 pm, Sunday matinees at 2 pm)

Set in the Armadillo Acres trailer park, the story centers on Norbert and Jeannie, a couple whose marriage has stalled due to Jeannie’s twenty-year bout of agoraphobia. Their routine is upended when Pippi, a stripper on the run, moves in and begins a scandalous affair with Norbert. As a trio of resident busybodies acts as a Greek chorus, the arrival of Pippi’s obsessive, magic-marker-sniffing ex-boyfriend, Duke, threatens to tear the park apart. The resulting chaos eventually forces Jeannie to step outside her trailer, leading to a hilarious and heartfelt resolution about love, risk, and forgiveness.

“A Christmas Carol”

November 20-29 (Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 pm, Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2 pm)

The story follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a bitter and miserly old man who views Christmas as a humbug and disdains the plight of the poor. On Christmas Eve, he is visited by the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley, who warns him to change his ways or face eternal torment. Scrooge is then led on a supernatural journey by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come, who reveal the joy he has lost and the dark future that awaits him. After witnessing the impact of his cruelty, Scrooge awakens with a transformed heart, dedicated to honoring the spirit of Christmas through generosity and kindness. This timeless tale remains the definitive story of redemption and the importance of human connection.

Thank you to our generous donors for making our 2025 Season possible! We extend our heartfelt thanks to the following individuals and organizations for their commitment to The Playhouse at McConnellstown. Thank you to our generous donors for making our 2025 Season possible!

Forget the shopping lists and stocking stuffers. This November, The Playhouse at McConnellstown invites audiences to unwrap something special with “An Orphan’s Light,” on stage November 21 through November 30.

Set in December 1897 at the Juniper Home for Children in Juniper, Ohio, this touching play by Huntingdon County native Emmie White explores enduring themes of love, redemption, and the unbreakable spirit of community when facing uncertainty.

The Juniper Home for Children is in jeopardy: Thomas Jones plans to close the orphanage to save his family’s candle factory, which is struggling against the rise of Edison’s electric light bulb. In addition, Thomas chooses to cancel the home’s annual Christmas Eve festivities—an event that the children look forward to every holiday season.

The integrity and compassion of the orphanage staff including Headmistress Elsa, Governess Nellie, and Groundskeeper Levi challenge Thomas’s resolve. Elsa works to find placements for the children while Nellie and Levi plan a secret holiday feast.

Teenagers at the orphanage unite to create their own holiday joy, determined to keep the spirit of Christmas alive for the smaller children. Meanwhile, the workers at the Jones Candle Company step forward to offer support, proving that the home means more to the town than just brick and mortar.

As the staff and adolescents work to keep the spirit of Christmas alive, this powerful production builds to a truly joyous and unforgettable holiday celebration. Audiences won’t want to miss this heartwarming experience that captures the true meaning of the season.

The cast for this production includes Andrew Schall as Thomas Jones, Anita Bowers as Headmistress Elsa, Meg Whitesel as Governess Nellie, and Kevin Donahue as Groundskeeper Levi. The kitchen girls include Natalie Thomas as Martha, Elsie Weld as Rose, Gracelynn Grove as Helen, Lydia Thompson as Virginia, and Claire Brown as Rachel. The grounds crew include Gabriel Donahue as James, Shane King as George, Linus Donahue as Frank, and Dorian Loner as Louis.

Orphans in the production include Timmy Canner as Samuel, Bram Evans as Walter, Thelma Evans as Caroline, Everett Lattimer as Cloyd, Garrett Pollock as Albert, Paige Pollock as Alice, and Jax McCartney as Charles. The ensemble of prospective parents, factory workers, and carolers includes Colin Brislawn as Harold, Jake Cooper as Peter, Tara Lee Donahue as Susan, Alex Evans as the Stranger, Ben Lattimer as Robert, Oscar Pollock as Lela and Pearl, Kylee Roles as Verna and Mary, and Dan Weston as William and Cornelious.

“This show is really meaningful and well-written,” commented E. Lattimer. “The characters have a lot of personality.”

“This show is a heartwarming tale that will remind us all of the importance of faith and hope in the midst of harsh circumstances,” remarked K. Donahue.

The creative team for this production includes Jeanne Nagurny (director, costumes, and props), Keith Sutton (lighting design), Rick Brown (sound design), and Don Dietz (set design) with technical assistance by Barb Hughes and original music arrangement by Gabriel Donahue.

“I was honored when The Playhouse Board of Directors selected this script as part of its 2025 Season,” said White. “It’s been a wonderful experience working with the creative team to ensure that every person regardless of age was provided with an opportunity to speak and shine onstage.”

“We don’t usually have the chance to work directly with playwrights as part of our creative process,” added Playhouse Artistic Director Dan Weston. “Collaborating with the author has allowed us to develop this work to accommodate our specific needs, which makes the experience fun for everyone and helps improve the quality of the production for the cast, crew, and our audiences.”

The Playhouse at McConnellstown is also delighted to present its Toast the Show partnership features for “An Orphan’s Light,” to highlight local culinary and beverage excellence. Three Twelve Kitchen offers a sophisticated Deconstructed Shepard’s Pie, featuring lamb lollipops served alongside whipped potatoes, snap peas, carrots, with a gastrique. For a seasonal libation, they provide the Holiday Old Fashioned, a mix of Michters bourbon with cranberry orange simple syrup.

From Juniata Brewing Company, patrons can enjoy the Cozy Cabin Porter, brewed with whole vanilla beans and roasted caramel malts for a rich, smooth taste. This porter boasts a 6.6% ABV and 15 IBUs. Finally, Taste of Home Bakery will present Christmas Cake, a gingerbread confection sure to compliment any holiday experience.

“An Orphan’s Light” opens November 21 and continues its run November 22, 28, and 29 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinees are November 22, 23, 29, and 30 at 2 p.m. Tickets for “An Orphan’s Light” can be purchased online via our secure LUDUS site: mcconnellstownplayhouse.ludus.com. Reservations can also be made by contacting the Playhouse Box Office at 814.627.0311. 

Ticket prices are $18 for regular admission and $16 for seniors (age 60 and older), students (age 6 and older), and military personnel. Payment options include cash, check, debit, or credit card. For more information about “An Orphan’s Light” and other upcoming productions at The Playhouse at McConnellstown, please visit www.littletheater.com or follow us on Facebook.

Check out this production’s digital program here.

The Playhouse at McConnellstown is set to deliver a much-needed dose of laughter with its production of Michael Parker’s hilarious political farce, “The Sensuous Senator.”

In this uproarious comedy, we meet Senator Harry Douglas, a politician running for president on a strict “morality” platform. When his long-suffering wife, Lois, leaves for a conference, the Senator invites his stunning secretary and lover, Veronica, to his Washington townhouse.

When Veronica can’t make it, Douglas calls an escort agency. The agency sends over Fiona, a high-class call girl who specializes in members of Congress. The evening spirals into complete chaos as another congressman, an elderly neighbor, and a persistent investigative reporter from “The National Intruder!” all drop in. The mayhem peaks when Lois unexpectedly returns home after her flight is canceled and finds her house filled with politicians, scantily clad women, security police, and a reporter.

A talented cast brings this madcap bedlam to life. Joe Soloski as Senator Harry Douglas, the suave politician whose libido constantly gets him into trouble. The Senator’s blissfully unaware wife Lois Douglas is played by Shelby Metz. Will Renninger is Congressman Jack Maguire, the young and naive first-term congressman; and Bill Daup is Congressman Clyde Salt, an elderly cynic with a sharp wit. Fiona, the high-class call girl, is played by Oscar Pollock.

Deb Shank is Miss Morrison, a very serious investigative reporter with a camera always ready to capture a scandalous photo. Harry’s voluptuous secretary Veronica is played by Tara Lee Donahue. Abby Lambert plays the police officer who appearing at the most inappropriate times.

“This show is nothing but laughs, laughs, and more laughs,” commented Daup.

“This is one of those shows in which every scene is hilarious,” added Renninger. “For me, personally, I get to make a fool of myself—I appear in questionable attire, and I get to throw myself around like a ragdoll.”

Crafting the political mayhem on stage is a top-tier creative team. Director Clay Glenny is at the helm, orchestrating the rapid-fire comedy and chaos. Don Dietz designed a set that is as visually engaging as a breaking news scandal. Jeanne Nagurny’s costume design ensures every character is perfectly dressed for their political—and personal—machinations.

The atmosphere is set by Keith Sutton’s lighting design while Rick Brown manages the crucial soundscape, ensuring every cue lands with a powerful impact. Barb Hughes provides technical assistance, keeping the entire operation running smoothly.

“The Sensuous Senator” opens on September 19 and continues its run September 20, 26, and 27 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinee showings are September 21 and 28 p.m. Tickets for “The Sensuous Senator” can be purchased online via our secure LUDUS site. Reservations can also be made by contacting the Playhouse Box Office at 814.627.0311. Ticket prices are $18 for regular admission and $16 for seniors (age 60 and older), students (age 6 and older), and military personnel. Payment options include cash, check, debit, or credit card. 

Congratulations to the cast of our upcoming production, “The Sensuous Senator.”

Tickets for “The Sensuous Senator” can be purchased online via our secure LUDUS site: mcconnellstownplayhouse.ludus.com. Reservations can also be made by contacting the Playhouse Box Office at 814.627.0311. Ticket prices are $18 for regular admission and $16 for seniors (age 60 and older), students (age 6 and older), and military personnel. Payment options include cash, check, debit, or credit card. 

Unlock your potential at our Teen Acting Workshop with The Playhouse at McConnellstown! This 3-night workshop, from July 22nd to 24th (6 pm – 9 pm), is designed for teens aged 15-18 to build foundational acting skills, focusing on character development, stage presence, and audition preparation.

Ready to take the stage? Click here to fill out the registration form.

Deadline to register is June 30, 2025.

Registration fee: $25 per student.

Have questions? Email us at camps@littletheater.com