The Playhouse at McConnellstown will hold auditions for Fruitcakes on September 8 at 2 pm in its building located at 11680 Raystown Road, Huntingdon, PA in the village of McConnellstown.

The show performance dates are November 22, 23, 29, and 30 at 7:30 p.m. Matinees are November 23, 24, and 30 and December 1 at 2:30 p.m. Additional performances may be added if required. Please bring your calendar with all conflicts between September 8 and December 1.

All actors will be required to attend all scheduled rehearsals during the final week before the show opens. Evening and weekend rehearsals as well as children’s workshops are anticipated for this production. Dates and times will be at the director’s discretion. Guardians are expected to attend all rehearsals and workshops, and chaperone signups are required during the production run. 

Parents and adult cast members (ages 16 and up) are strongly encouraged to attend workday sessions held on Saturdays or Sundays between September 16th and November 11th. Assistance is required to construct the set, perform building maintenance and decorate for the holiday season.

Fruitcakes is a heartwarming adventure that’s part comedy, part drama, and all festive fun! Stir in a delightful mix of fruitcakes, a dazzling display of 10,000 outdoor lights, a pinch of chicken pox. Toss in two southern spinsters, an estranged old man, a mischievous lost cat named Tutti Frutti, and a Christmas hog named Buster, and voila! You’ve got the perfect recipe for an evening of holiday cheer. Jamie, a runaway kid, finds himself in this quirky town with its eccentric residents. Initially thinking they’re “nuttier than fruitcakes,” Jamie soon discovers the true magic of this festive community. Join us for a moving story that serves up a generous helping of the Christmas spirit!

The cast breakdown is as follows:

Mack Morgan (50s+): A local who makes whirligigs for a living and sells Christmas trees during the holiday season.

Beebo Dantzler (30s-40s): The town’s only police officer with a penchant for exterior illumination.

Betty Jane Dantzler (30s-40s): Beebo’s wife who directs the annual Christmas pageant.

Miss Sarah (60s+): A grouchy spinster who make hundreds of fruitcakes each Christmas with her sister, Alice.

Miss Alice (60s+): Miss Sarah’s younger and gentler sister.

Skeeter (20s+): A local fisherman and lover of poetry

Mattie Sue (30s+): A simple yet absent-minded woman who has been married six times

Rick Morgan (20s-40s): Mack’s son.

Jamie (12-16): A runaway boy from a nearby city.

Little Beebo (10-14): Beebo and Betty Jane’s son.

Sally (8-12): Beebo and Betty Jane’s daughter.

James (8-12): Rick’s son

Meredith, Sammy, Laura, Amy, Marybeth, Joanie, Francis, Little Skeeter, Little Larry, and Little Billy (8-14): Children who play various roles in the Christmas pageant.

All casting decisions are at the discretion of the show’s director. We encourage all thespians to audition regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, etc. In addition to actors and actresses for the production, we are also looking for volunteers. We are seeking production assistants, stage managers, stage crew, concessions, front of house staff and parking assistance. Anyone who would like to volunteer should email Dan Weston, Artistic Director at danwest@littletheater.com. For more information, please contact The Playhouse at 814-627-0311. You may also find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @LittleTheater.

While experience is helpful, The Playhouse at McConnellstown does not require previous theatrical experience. We do, however, require that you have the desire, commitment, and the drive to help us produce the high-quality shows that our audiences have come to expect. Please come join us for a wonderful theatrical experience. We look forward to seeing you at auditions!

Congratulations to the cast of Drinking Habits 2: Caught in the Act! The Sisters of Perpetual Sewing miss the excitement of the old days when they were saving convents and reuniting long-lost families. So when they learn that the orphanage where Paul and Kate grew up is in peril, they can’t wait to come to the rescue. Everyone pitches in to mount a play to raise money, but it’s no easy feat when Kate’s expecting any day, Sally’s hiding from stage-fright-stricken Paul after another flight from the altar, Mother Superior’s acting is unexpectedly narcoleptic, and the sisters’ award-winning wine keeps getting switched with the grape juice. The merry mix-ups multiply in this warm and winsome sequel to Drinking Habits (produced at The Playhouse in 2015).

This show will replace the previously scheduled production of The Countess. Performances will be August 23, 24, 30, and 31 at 7:30 pm with matinees August 25 and September 1 at 2:30 pm. Please call 814.627.0311 for reservations.

Brace yourselves for an astronomical adventure unlike any other as The Playhouse at McConnellstown proudly presents “Silent Sky” by acclaimed playwright Lauren Gunderson. This captivating drama will grace the stage from June 7 to June 16.

“Silent Sky” tells the remarkable tale of Henrietta Leavitt, a pioneering astronomer whose groundbreaking discoveries revolutionized our understanding of the universe. Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world, the play explores Leavitt’s journey as she battles societal norms and personal challenges to pursue her passion for the stars.

Directed by Keith Sutton, this production promises to captivate audiences with its blend of scientific intrigue, heartfelt drama, and timeless themes of perseverance and the pursuit of knowledge. With its compelling characters and poignant storytelling, “Silent Sky” invites audiences to journey through the cosmos and witness the awe-inspiring wonder of discovery.

“Ever since my teenage years, I have had a strong interest in astronomy,” commented Sutton. “Directing this show has given me a great opportunity to rekindle that interest and delve more deeply into the history of early 20th century astrophysics, an era during which humankind was first able to get meaningful measurements on the true size of the universe and a clearer understanding of our place in it.”

Featuring a talented cast and crew, unique set design, and immersive lighting and soundscapes, “Silent Sky” promises to be an unforgettable theatrical experience for audiences of all ages. Henrietta Leavitt is portrayed by Meghan Whitesel. Henrietta’s sister, Margaret, is played by Kylee Roles. Anita Burkhart is Annie Cannon, and Jeanne Nagurny is Williamina Flemming. Peter Shaw is played by Clay Glenny.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of this production,” said Whitesel. “This script was recommended to me almost a decade ago, and a group of us did a virtual table read when we were dark during Covid. I was excited when it landed in our 2024 season.”

The show’s creative team consists of Sutton with Olivia Cooley as stage manager. Set design is by Don Dietz with sound design from Dan Weston and light design from Sutton. Barb Hughes provides technical assistance.

“Every so often, we get to produce a show that allows us to highlight our technical capabilities. ‘Silent Sky’ is one of those productions,” added Whitesel. “As I learn more about the lights and sound for this show, I find myself wishing I could see a performance from the audience—just so I can enjoy the technical components. The theatre experience isn’t just about the actors’ performances. I’m excited for our audience to experience this entire production.”

“Silent Sky” opens on June 7 and continues June 8, 14, and 15 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinee showings are June 9 and 16 at 2:30 p.m. Ticket prices are $17 for regular admission and $15 for seniors (age 60 and older) and students (age 6 and older). Reservations for “Silent Sky” can be made by contacting the Playhouse Box Office at 814.627.0311. Payment options include cash, check, debit, or credit card. Don’t miss your chance to witness this extraordinary tale of discovery, passion, and the pursuit of the stars.

For more information about “Silent Sky” and other upcoming productions at The Playhouse at McConnellstown, please visit www.littletheater.com or follow us on Facebook.

We will have work days on 4/20 and 4/27 from 10 am to 2 pm at our building in McConnellstown. We welcome anyone who wants to enjoys working with their hands, getting a little dirty, and volunteering their time.

The 4/20 work day will involve building maintenance including repairs, furniture moving, lawn care, and painting.

The 4/27 work day will be the start of set construction.

Any time you can spare, whether it’s 1 hour or 4 hours, is greatly appreciated. We provide lunch. Newcomers are welcome. Come check out our building and learn about what we do!

Tickets for Silent Sky are currently available. To make a reservation, please call 814.627.0311 and leave a voicemail. A member of our Box Office team will contact you at their convenience. Payment can be made the night of the performance via cash, check, or card. Please note that we do not take reservations by email, website, or Facebook at this time.

Auditions for our next show, The Countess, will be held in June. More information will be provided at a later date.

The Playhouse at McConnellstown to Hold Auditions for Season Opener, Silent Sky

The Playhouse at McConnellstown will hold auditions for its season opener, Silent Sky on Tuesday, April 2, at 7 pm, in its building located at 11680 Raystown Road in the village of McConnellstown.

The show performances are June 7, 8, 14, and 15 at 7:30 pm. Sunday matinees are June 9 and 16 at 2:30 pm. Please bring your calendar with all conflicts between April 2 and June 16. All actors are required to attend all scheduled rehearsals during the final week before the show opens. Rehearsals are typically held three evenings each week, and weekend rehearsals may be scheduled. Work days for set building and facility maintenance are held on Saturdays or Sundays depending on scheduling conflicts.

Based on the true story of a 19th-century astronomer, Silent Sky explores a woman’s place in society during a time of immense scientific discoveries. Henrietta Leavitt joins a group of ladies at the Harvard Observatory working for a renowned astronomer who has no time for the women’s probing theories. Henrietta attempts to measure the light and distance of stars and takes stock of her life on Earth, trying to balance her dedication to science with family obligations and the possibility of love. This play is written by Lauren Gunderson.

Copies of the script are available for review but must be returned to The Playhouse before the auditions on April 2. For inquiries about the production or to request a copy of the script, please call 814.627.0311 or email us at mail@littletheater.com.

We encourage all thespians to audition regardless of age, race, gender and disability. All casting decisions are at the discretion of the show’s directors. In addition to actors and actresses for the production, we are also looking for volunteers. We are seeking production assistants, stage managers, stage crew, concessions, front of house staff and parking assistance.

While experience is helpful, The Playhouse at McConnellstown does not require previous theatrical experience. We do ask that you have the desire, commitment, and the drive to help us produce the high-quality shows that our audiences have come to expect. Please come join us for a wonderful theatrical experience. We look forward to seeing you at auditions!

The Playhouse is located at 11680 Raystown Rd, Huntingdon, PA, six miles South of Huntingdon Borough right on Rt. 26 in the Village of McConnellstown. For more information, please check the website at www.littletheater.com or like us on Facebook (The Playhouse at McConnellstown).

2024 Season Tickets Now Available for Purchase

The Playhouse at McConnellstown Unveils Exciting 2024 Season

The Playhouse at McConnellstown’s 2024 Season lineup is sure to please audiences. The three-show season will feature a historical biopic, a never-before-seen farce, and a slice of fruity holiday goodness.

The season opens in June with Lauren Gunderson’s Silent Sky. Based on the true story of a 19th-century astronomer, Silent Sky explores a woman’s place in society during a time of immense scientific discoveries. Henrietta Leavitt joins a group of ladies at the Harvard Observatory working for a renowned astronomer who has no time for the women’s probing theories. Henrietta attempts to measure the light and distance of stars and takes stock of her life on Earth, trying to balance her dedication to science with family obligations and the possibility of love.

Silent Sky runs June 7, 8, 14, and 15 at 7:30 pm; and June 9 and 16 at 2:30 pm.

In August, the curtain rises on The Countess, a new farce from local playwright Emmie White. Embark on an uproarious escapade as Phoebe Molyneux, the clever Countess of Châlons, and her witty lady’s maid Matilda arrive at an English tavern after escaping the Reign of Terror. Phoebe’s anticipated rendezvous with her fiancée, the Duke of Ruthland, takes an unexpected turn when two thieves are mistaken for the duke and his valet. Fueling the chaos, Phoebe enlists Matilda to don the guise of La Comtesse de Châlons, leading to a cascade of side-splitting moments as Phoebe attempts to learn more about her betrothed. Matilda flirts with the faux duke while the thieves plot to steal Phoebe’s jewels. Hilarity ensues when the real Duke of Ruthland, and his valet realize they must save Phoebe and Matilda from the thieves.

The Countess runs August 23, 24, 30, and 31 at 7:30 pm; and August 25 and September 1 at 2:30 pm.

The season closes with the hilarious holiday favorite, Fruitcakes by Julian Wiles. Fruitcakes is a heartwarming adventure that’s part comedy, part drama, and all festive fun! Stir in a delightful mix of fruitcakes, a dazzling display of 10,000 outdoor lights, a pinch of chicken pox. Toss in two southern spinsters, an estranged old man, a mischievous lost cat named Tutti Frutti, and a Christmas hog named Buster, and voila! You’ve got the perfect recipe for an evening of holiday cheer. Jamie, a runaway kid, finds himself in this quirky town with its eccentric residents. Initially thinking they’re “nuttier than fruitcakes,” Jamie soon discovers the true magic of this festive community. Join us for a moving story that serves up a generous helping of the Christmas spirit!

Fruitcakes runs November 22, 23, 29, and 30 at 7:30 pm; and November 23, 24, 30 and December 1 at 2:30 pm.

Evening performances on Fridays and Saturdays are at 7:30 pm. Sunday matinees are at 2:30 pm. Ticket prices are $17 for regular admission and $15 for seniors (age 60 and older) and students (age 6 and older). Payment options include cash, check, debit or credit card. For reservations, please call 814-627-0311. The Playhouse is located at 11680 Raystown Rd, Huntingdon, PA, six miles South of Huntingdon Borough right on Rt. 26 in the Village of McConnellstown.