The 2017-2018 season at RiverStage Community Theatre featured a compelling mix of literary adaptation, comedy, suspense, original works, classic American drama, and Shakespearean tragedy. Through a bold and diverse lineup of productions, RiverStage continued its commitment to bringing high-quality live theatre to the Susquehanna Valley while showcasing the talents of local performers, directors, designers, and volunteers. The season offered audiences a memorable journey through some of theatre’s most intriguing stories and unforgettable characters.
The season opened with An Evening of Edgar Allan Poe, a dramatic celebration of the works of one of America’s most influential literary figures. Drawing from Poe’s renowned tales and poetry, the production immersed audiences in a world of mystery, suspense, and psychological intrigue. Through atmospheric storytelling and powerful performances, the show brought to life the haunting imagination that has captivated readers for generations.
RiverStage next presented Black Comedy by Peter Shaffer, a brilliantly crafted farce that turns theatrical convention upside down. Set during a power outage, the play cleverly reverses light and darkness, creating a whirlwind of misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and physical comedy. Filled with rapid-fire humor and unexpected twists, the production kept audiences laughing while showcasing the precision and timing required of classic comedic theatre.
In February, audiences experienced The Bad Seed by Maxwell Anderson, a chilling psychological drama that examines the unsettling question of whether evil is born or made. Centered on a seemingly perfect young girl and the growing suspicions surrounding her behavior, the production delivered suspense, tension, and emotional depth. As secrets emerged and fears intensified, audiences were drawn into a gripping story that continues to fascinate and disturb decades after its debut.
The spring season featured the Gaspipe One Act Play Festival, RiverStage’s annual celebration of short-form theatre and original creative work. The festival provided a platform for playwrights, directors, and actors to explore fresh ideas and innovative storytelling through a collection of diverse one-act productions. Showcasing both emerging and experienced artists, the festival highlighted the creativity and collaborative spirit that have become hallmarks of the RiverStage theatre community.
In June, RiverStage presented A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams, one of the most influential and enduring dramas in American theatre. The production followed the tragic journey of Blanche DuBois as she seeks refuge with her sister Stella and brother-in-law Stanley Kowalski. Through its richly drawn characters and exploration of desire, illusion, class, and human vulnerability, the play offered audiences a powerful and emotionally charged theatrical experience that remains as relevant today as when it first premiered.
The season concluded with Shakespeare in the Park: Macbeth, one of William Shakespeare’s most celebrated tragedies. Presented in an outdoor setting, the production brought to life the dark tale of ambition, power, betrayal, and fate. As Macbeth’s quest for the Scottish throne spiraled into violence and paranoia, audiences were captivated by the timeless themes and dramatic intensity of Shakespeare’s masterpiece. The outdoor performance continued RiverStage’s tradition of making classical theatre accessible to the community while providing a memorable finale to the season.
The 2017-2018 season demonstrated RiverStage Community Theatre’s dedication to presenting a wide range of theatrical works, from literary adaptations and classic drama to comedy, suspense, original productions, and Shakespeare. Through each performance, RiverStage continued its mission of enriching the cultural life of the Susquehanna Valley while creating meaningful opportunities for artists and audiences to connect through the power of live theatre.
