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 Fee: $20 per student per class, or save $5 by booking both sessions for $35.
• Deadline: Register by May 29, 2026.
• Click here to fill out the registration form.

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

View this show’s digital program here.

Get ready for an evening of laughter and suspense. The Playhouse at McConnellstown is delighted to announce its upcoming production of John Bishop’s uproarious play, “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940.” This delightful blend of comedy and mystery is set to captivate audiences June 6 through June 15. 

Step back in time to December 1940. An eccentric theatre financier has gathered a creative team at her lavish New York mansion. Initially invited for a backer’s audition for a new musical, the group soon finds themselves entangled in a web of intrigue, secrets, and murder. The lingering terror of the infamous “Stage Door Slasher,” who struck during a previous ill-fated production, adds to the tension and hilarity as the guests try to navigate the treacherous circumstances.

“The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” promises a delightful evening of theatrical fun, filled with witty dialogue, eccentric characters, and unexpected twists. This production, brought to life by the talented cast and crew of The Playhouse at McConnellstown, is sure to leave audiences entertained and guessing until the very end.

“It’s a funny and entertaining mystery with a terrific cast,” commented Dan Weston, the show’s director. 

The Playhouse at McConnellstown’s production of “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” features a stellar cast, with each actor embodying their character with energy and flair. Get ready to be charmed and challenged by Oscar Pollock’s portrayal of Helsa Wenzel, a maid with hidden depths. Anita Bowers embodies the eccentric arts patron, Elsa Von Grossenkneten. Colin Brislawn will keep you guessing as the determined undercover cop, Michael Kelly, while Clay Glenny juggles accents and intrigue as actor Patrick O’Reilly. 

Tate Pollock delivers the delightful arrogance of director Ken De La Maize, and Abby Lambert captivates as Nikki Crandall, the chorus girl with more on her mind than just Broadway dreams. Elias Powell provides the comic relief as Eddie McCuen, the lovable, struggling comedian. Newcomer Elizabeth “Betsy” Happeny brings down the house as the boisterous producer, Marjorie Baverstock. Adding to the mix are Karen Kuntz as the sarcastic composer, Regina Hopewell, and Jen Powell as Bernice Roth, the lyricist whose creativity is matched only by her emotional volatility. This is a cast you won’t soon forget!

“This is a fun twist on a murder mystery that will have folks second guessing and laughing hysterically the whole time,” added cast member Powell.

Behind the scenes, a talented creative team has worked diligently to bring the zany world of “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” to life on the Playhouse stage. The vision of Director Dan Weston, alongside Co-Director Kylee Roles, guides this madcap mystery. The visually engaging set design comes from the collaborative efforts of Don Dietz and Dan Weston. Jeanne Nagurny lends her artistic touch to the costumes, ensuring each character is dressed to impress (or perhaps deceive!). Lighting Designer Keith Sutton crafts the perfect atmosphere, and Rick Brown manages the crucial sound design. Providing technical assistance for the production is Barb Hughes. 

The Playhouse, in partnership with several local food establishments, is excited to introduce Toast the Show: Themed Libations and Local Bites. This new collaboration provides a fun way for local food and beverage establishments to offer exciting new features during a Playhouse production run. For “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940,” patrons can expect exciting creations from Three Twelve Kitchen and Cocktails, Juniata Brewing Company, and Tastes of Home LLC. 

Enhance your theatrical experience with special offerings from Three Twelve Kitchen and Cocktails. For the entree feature, they present “A Murder Most Fowl.” Indulge in a delectable prosciutto-wrapped duck breast, expertly stuffed with ricotta, mushroom duxelle, and mozzarella, artfully presented on a crimson cherry splatter and accompanied by classic potatoes dauphinoise. It’s a truly killer meal! 

To complement your dish, savor Three Twelve’s cocktail feature: “The Casablanca” – a sophisticated blend of cognac and cardamom-orange simple syrup, served on the rocks with a twist of orange. A refined libation for the discerning theatre-goer.

Quench your thirst and sharpen your detective’s senses with a Raspberry Wheat seasonal beer from Juniata Brewing Company. It’s lightly tart and slightly sweet—the perfect combination for cracking the case wide open! This refreshing brew is the perfect summertime companion. It’s currently on tap and will be for the season.

Indulge your sweet tooth with “The Crime Scene At the White House” from Tastes of Home LLC Bakery. This delectable creation features a creamy, no-bake cheesecake nestled in a sweet graham cracker crust, finished with a vibrant cherry topping. Treat yourself to a delicious piece of the mystery between May 30 and June 15!

“The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” opens on June 6 and continues June 7,13, and 14 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinee showings are June 8 and 15 at 2:30 p.m. A special performance in partnership with the Huntingdon County Chamber of Commerce will be held June 20 at 7:30 pm. 

Tickets for the standard performances of “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” (June 6-15) 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. 

Reservations for the Huntingdon County Chamber of Commerce performance on June 20 at 7:30 can be made by contacting MacKenzie Huntsman the Chamber via phone at 814.643.1110 or via email at mhuntsman@huntingdonchamber.com.

For more information about “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” and other upcoming productions at The Playhouse at McConnellstown, please visit www.littletheater.com or follow us on Facebook.

Season ticket sales are back for the 2025 Season. Patrons can purchase season tickets for $16 per ticket per show. Season tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at 814.627.0311.

Please leave a voice mail with our Box Office with your name and phone number. Our staff will contact you at their earliest convenience to discuss seat reservations and payment.

Season tickets must be purchased no later than May 16, 2025.