The 2019-2020 season at RiverStage Community Theatre featured an exciting blend of comedy, classic literature, holiday tradition, drama, and musical theatre. Through a diverse lineup of productions, RiverStage continued its mission of bringing high-quality live theatre to audiences throughout the Susquehanna Valley while showcasing the talents of local performers, directors, musicians, and volunteers. The season celebrated beloved characters, timeless stories, and memorable theatrical experiences that engaged audiences of all ages.
The season opened with Our Miss Brooks, adapted by Christopher Sergel from the popular radio and television series. This lighthearted comedy followed the adventures of the witty and resourceful Connie Brooks, an English teacher whose personal and professional life often becomes entangled in humorous situations. Filled with charming characters and nostalgic humor, the production delighted audiences while paying tribute to a beloved piece of American entertainment history.
In November, RiverStage presented Anne of Green Gables, adapted by Mary Collins Barile from the classic novel by L.M. Montgomery. Audiences were transported to Prince Edward Island as spirited orphan Anne Shirley captured hearts with her imagination, determination, and boundless enthusiasm. The production celebrated friendship, family, and the power of finding one’s place in the world, bringing a cherished literary classic to life on stage.
The holiday season featured A Lewisburg Victorian Nutcracker, presented in partnership with Strictly Ballet. Combining music, dance, and theatrical storytelling, this annual community tradition brought the magic of the holiday season to audiences of all ages. Featuring talented local performers and festive Victorian-inspired charm, the production continued to be one of RiverStage’s most beloved seasonal events.
In February, audiences experienced Cyrano de Bergerac by Edmond Rostand. This enduring classic tells the story of the brilliant and eloquent Cyrano, whose courage, wit, and devotion are overshadowed by his own insecurities. Blending romance, humor, adventure, and heartbreak, the production offered audiences a powerful exploration of love, honor, and self-acceptance through one of theatre’s most iconic characters.
The season also included Twelve Angry Men by Reginald Rose, a gripping courtroom drama that examines justice, prejudice, and the importance of thoughtful deliberation. Through intense dialogue and compelling character interactions, the play remains one of the most powerful explorations of civic responsibility in American theatre. The production was ultimately postponed as circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic affected theatrical performances nationwide.
Audiences also looked forward to Monty Python’s Spamalot, the wildly popular musical comedy inspired by Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Filled with outrageous humor, unforgettable songs, and larger-than-life characters, the production promised a hilarious and energetic theatrical experience before being postponed to a later season.
The season concluded with plans for Shakespeare in the Park, RiverStage’s annual outdoor celebration of classical theatre. This longstanding tradition continues the organization’s commitment to making Shakespeare accessible to the community while providing audiences with a unique open-air theatrical experience.
The 2019-2020 season reflected RiverStage Community Theatre’s dedication to artistic excellence, community engagement, and diverse programming. From beloved literary adaptations and holiday traditions to classic drama and musical comedy, the season offered a rich variety of theatrical experiences while continuing RiverStage’s mission of enriching the cultural life of the Susquehanna Valley through live performance.
