The 2014-2015 season at RiverStage Community Theatre offered audiences an entertaining blend of comedy, mystery, and musical theatre. Through three distinctive productions, RiverStage showcased the creativity, talent, and dedication of its performers, directors, and volunteers while continuing its mission of bringing high-quality live theatre to the Susquehanna Valley community. From imaginative historical comedy and classic murder-mystery farce to an award-winning musical, the season provided memorable experiences for audiences of all ages.
The season opened with Picasso at the Lapin Agile by Steve Martin. Set in a Parisian café at the turn of the twentieth century, the play imagines a fictional meeting between two young geniuses—Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso—before either achieved worldwide fame. Filled with sharp wit, clever dialogue, and thought-provoking humor, the production explored art, science, innovation, and the nature of genius while delighting audiences with Martin’s unique comedic style.
In the winter, RiverStage presented The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 by John Bishop. This fast-paced mystery comedy transported audiences to a secluded mansion where a group of theatre professionals gather to audition a new musical. As unexpected events unfold and secrets are revealed, the production delivered an evening filled with suspense, mistaken identities, and laugh-out-loud moments. Combining elements of classic whodunits with theatrical farce, the show kept audiences guessing until the very end.
The season concluded with The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, the Tony Award-winning musical comedy by Rachel Sheinkin and William Finn. The production followed an eclectic group of middle school spelling champions as they competed for a chance at victory while navigating personal challenges, family expectations, and the awkward realities of adolescence. Filled with humor, heart, and memorable songs, the musical provided a joyful and energetic finale to the season while showcasing the talents of a large ensemble cast.
The 2014-2015 season reflected RiverStage Community Theatre’s commitment to presenting diverse and engaging theatrical experiences. Through comedy, mystery, and musical theatre, RiverStage continued to enrich the cultural life of the Susquehanna Valley while creating opportunities for artists and audiences to come together through the power of live performance.
