Like you, I’ve had some things happen in 2019 that I’d just as soon forget. There are, however, many things from 2019 I hope to carry with me well in to 2020. Most of those memorable moments occurred with the wonderful community theatre troupe, The Far Off Broadway Players.
As the artistic director of the Far Off Broadway Players it is my mission to help choose shows that are not only good but will also, hopefully, attract people like you. That’s not always easy because each of us like different things. But starting in March of 2019, we began presenting shows that we hoped a large percentage of you would like. We were overwhelmed at your response. In 2019, over 6,000 of you came to see Far Off Broadway Players productions. “Steel Magnolias” was the first of five shows we would mount in 2019, and we plan on doing the same number of shows for 2020
“Steel Magnolias” was met with high praise in March and record numbers at the box office. It was a play we’d done before at the Plaza Theatre, but this one seemed to be extra special. In July, for the first time ever, we presented two shows. The first was our annual dinner theatre production at the Cave City Convention Center called “Southern Fried Nuptials.” It was the sequel to a show we’d done in 2018 and audiences raved about it. In late July, we presented our very first musical for young audiences called “How I Became a Pirate.” Patrons and their children liked it so much that we’ve decided to do another musical for young audiences in 2020. In October, we mounted another of our Halloween themed shows called “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” another show that met with record numbers at the box office. And less than a month ago, we finished our 2019 season with “It’s a Wonderful Life” at the Plaza Theatre. I couldn’t have imagined a more glorious reaction to that show. In all, over 2,500 of you experienced the production, and I, for one, am so thankful for your generous compliments about “It’s a Wonderful Life”!
“What are you doing next?” It’s a question I receive a lot when I encounter people at the theatre and elsewhere. And just like 2019, we at the Far Off Broadway Players have put together what we hope is a season that will please all of you. And that includes, five individual productions.
On March 6, 7 and 8 we will present a wonderful comedy called “Savannah Sipping Society” at the Plaza Theatre. If you loved “Steel Magnolias” we think you’ll really like this one. It’s the story of four southern women who seemingly have nothing in common. But as they get to know each other they find lasting friendships and a burning desire to live in the moment.
On July 10, 11 and 12 the Plaza Theatre stage will be the setting for “Hansel and Gretel, a Wickedly Delicious Musical Treat.” This rock and roll musical tells the famous Grimm Brother’s tale about a brother and sister frantically searching for their mother and classmates. You and your children will love it!
Later in the summer – July 31, August 1 and 2 – we are back at the Cave City Convention Center for our annual Dinner Theatre production. This year we are visiting Las Vegas in the hilarious comedy, “Four Weddings and an Elvis”! Four couples enter a Vegas wedding chapel and hilarity ensues!
In October, we continue our Halloween themed shows with the thrilling original play “Ghost Stories.” Written by Hollywood screenwriter Mickey Fisher, this is the story of a group of paranormal investigators, seeking proof of the Bloody Mary legend. What they find is something even more terrifying. And finally, in December of 2020, we present our first ever, big holiday musical revue! “A Swingin’ Christmas” follows the story of Santa and Mrs. Claus as they walk down memory lane. Great live music, incredible dancing, lots of laughter and the true spirit of Christmas at the Plaza Theatre!
I’m so excited about the Far Off Broadway Players 2020 season! If you would you like to be involved, either on stage, back stage or in some other way, please follow us on Facebook or contact us via our website, www.faroffbroadwayplayers.com.
– by Paul Glodfelter
About the Author: Paul Glodfelter is artistic director of the Far Off Broadway Players.
