Our recent ‘fall back’ time change may lead to some seasonal depression. Combat the blues by going to places designed to be dark, theatres! School drama clubs are especially active this time of year and are always thankful when the community turns out. Take a chance on a show near you and support your local theatre kids.
In Our Area
Franklin County:
Thursday, Nov. 5 – Saturday, Nov. 7: Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Nights Dream” presented by Shippensburg Area Senior High Drama Club (family friendly) Tickets: $8 – $10
Given the name, November may seem an odd time for this classic play, but Midsummer is full of fairies and magic. Two sets of young lovers hide out in the woods while a local community theatre group tries desperately to pull a play together. When the mortals disrupt the feuding king and queen of the fairies, tricks and spells wreak hilarious havoc. Presented in the SASHS Auditorium,you can enjoy the show and support our next generation of theater artists.
Friday, Nov. 6, 7 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 7, 1 p.m. “Disney’s Aladdin Jr.” at Waynesboro Area Middle School (children encouraged) Tickets: free-$6
Tina Schaubroeck and Ashlie Funkhauser direct 6th, 7th and 8th graders from the WAMS drama program in this popular tale of a thief who sets out to win the love of the local princess with the help of a magical genie. Junior versions feature all the best parts of the original story with a shortened running time that makes them perfect for younger performers AND audience members. Tickets are $6 for ages 12 and up, $3 for ages 4-11, and ages 3 and under are free.
Friday, Nov. 6 and Saturday, Nov. 7, 7p.m. “The Play That Goes Wrong: High School Edition” presented by the FAHS Drama Club (family friendly) Tickets $8-$10
We’ve all been to a high school play where props get broken, lines are forgotten, and costume malfunctions occur. The Auditorium at Fairfield Area High School will feature a heavy dose of theatrical mishaps in one of the funniest shows of the past decade. Thankfully, all of the ‘accidents’ are well rehearsed for the audiences’ entertainment.
Saturday, Nov. 7, 2 and 7 p.m. “Toby: A Tribute to Toby Keith” at Totem Pole Playhouse (family friendly) Tickets $45-$56
Fronted by dynamic performer Hollywood Yates, this high-energy show pays tribute to 30 years of Toby Keith’s signature American sound, featuring the songs that defined a generation of country fans. With powerful vocals, high energy, and plenty of personality, “Toby: A Toby Keith Tribute Concert” is a night of great country music and unforgettable entertainment.
Friday, Nov. 13 and Saturday, Nov. 14, 7 p.m. “Knock-Knock” presented by JBHS Drama Club (family friendly) Tickets $5
The JBHS Auditorium becomes a series of delivery stops in this rapid-fire one act comedy.
Jaded veteran delivery driver Logan thinks she’s seen it all, while newbie Sam is convinced attitude is everything. From a former teacher to …there’s a surprise behind every door.
With a runtime of about an hour it’s a great night out for families and friends.
Saturday, Nov. 14, 7:30 p.m. “Almost Maine” presented by CASHS Drama Club (parental guidance) Tickets:
This series of interwoven vignettes centered around life in a small Maine town is a perennial favorite for schools. By turns funny, touching, and uplifting, it’s a perfect watch on a chilly fall evening. Drop in to Chambersburg Area Senior High School Auditorium to enjoy the students’ take on a modern classic.
Washington County:
Saturday, Nov. 14 – Sunday, Nov. 22: “Al-la-la-la-laddin” presented by the ACT educational program (children encouraged) Tickets: $25
This comedic adaptation, inspired by the story we all know and love, is sure to amaze and entertain. If repeated listening to “Friend Like Me” have you shying away from other Aladdin productions, the talented students who take the stage at the ACT Black Box are happy to offer an alternative.
Saturday, Nov. 14, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 15, 3 p.m. “Shakespeare in Symphony” presented by Maryland Symphony Orchestra (family friendly) Tickets $20
Join MSO at The Maryland Theatre for music that explores the enduring power of Shakespeare’s stories inspired by some of his most memorable plays. Selections from Prokofiev’s ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ Mendelssohn’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream,’ and more bring Shakespeare’s characters, emotions, and stories vividly to life through the color and energy of the orchestra.
Worth the Drive
Frederick:
Fridays and Saturdays in November, 8:30 p.m.: “Comedy Night: Themed Improv” presented by The Maryland Ensemble Theatre (parental discretion for adult language) Tickets $17
Join the MET’s house improv troupes as well as guest performers from around the DMV, for a variety of side splitting themed evening sessions. With a wide array of themes and styles everyone is sure to find a night geared towards their preferred vibe. Since it’s improv, anything can happen (and probably will!)
Friday, Nov. 6 – Sunday, Nov. 8 ”Welcome to Quarantino” presented by Unstrung Harpist (parental discretion) Tickets are ‘Pay What You Will’ $20 suggested donation
Welcome to Quarantino’s is a brand-new, riotous musical comedy set in the heart of the pandemic. A failing local dive bar and its inept staff navigate their final day before it closes as a COVID casualty, all while dealing with overwrought regulars, oversexed bartenders, and an overzealous health inspector. Irreverent, ridiculous, and with a lot of heart, W2Q’s will have you laughing, humming, and reminiscing about a time that seems both immeasurably distant and like it just happened yesterday. The show runs two and a half hours with a fifteen minute intermission. Performances are 7:30pm on Friday and Saturdays and 2pm on Sundays.
West Virginia:
Saturdays and Sundays throughout November, 1 p.m. “Hokey Pokey Magic Show” presented by Wonderment Puppets (children encouraged) Tickets $7.50 cash or check only
Join the Puppeteers of Wonderment Theatre for a joyful display of magic and fun. Each show ends with a dance party and the venue includes a whimsical art gallery so you can make the most of your visit.
Saturday, Nov. 14, 6:30 p.m. “Vignette Fest” presented by Painting With A Purpose (parental guidance) Tickets: $17
Join host Molly Britland for the first ever Vignette Fest. This one-act festival showcases three plays with talented local creatives and drastically different styles. A satirical take on appliance maintenance, a dramatic look at family tragedy, and a comedic glimpse into the aftermath of a wedding.
Gettysburg:
Friday, Nov. 6, 8 p.m. Symphony Orchestra Concert, Saturday, Nov. 7, 8 p.m. Jazz Ensemble Concert presented by The Gettysburg College Sunderman Conservatory of Music (family friendly) Tickets $5
Enjoy two evenings of wonderful music at the historic Majestic Theatre performed by these top tier students from Gettysburg College. Whether you prefer the intricate harmonies of a full orchestra or the more free flowing riffs of a jazz ensemble, these two concerts are sure to delight!
Saturday, Nov. 6 – Saturday, Nov. 14: “Airness” presented by Gettysburg Community Theatre (parental discretion, 13+) Tickets $20
In this electric musical by Chelsea Marcentell, heroine Nina steps onto the stage for her very first air guitar competition convinced she’s got it in the bag. But as she’s swept into a wildly passionate community of eccentric, big-hearted competitors—all chasing the title of champion—she quickly realizes this isn’t just playing pretend. Packed with laugh-out-loud moments and an unexpected amount of heart, Airness is a high-energy comedy about finding your people, owning your weird, and discovering the freedom that comes from fully embracing who you are.
