Creativity, connection and curtain calls
The players at Newton Community Theatre are people that you encounter in regular, every day life. They work at local business and for local organizations. They also have a passion for nurturing the arts in the community.
“We welcome anyone passionate about community, local arts and culture, and theatre to get involved with our shows as a performer, volunteer, audience member or donor,” said Aaron Tschetter, Newton Community Theatre Board President.
Newton Community Theatre began informally in 1965 when a young Newton High School graduate, Sam Nance, organized and produced a few shows at the Santa Fe School auditorium. Arlo Kasper, Bethel College drama instructor, and Helen Canzoneir, were co-producers. The next year, the joint venture produced a couple of more plays, and officially became known as the Bethel College and Newton Community Summer Theatre Workshop. The first couple of years generated enough interest in the community, that in 1967 the official name of the organization was changed to Newton Community Theatre, and the first Board of Directors was established.
“We are proud to be celebrating more than 55 years of local theatre in the Newton community,” said Tschetter. “Newton Community Theatre is about coming together to put on a show, but we believe there are benefits that go far beyond the show. It’s a way for us to highlight what makes our community special. It’s a lively gathering place where performers, volunteers and staff can dive into their creativity, forge new friendships and take pride in their contributions, all while tapping into the incredible talent pool we have right here in our community. For the audience, it’s a delightful escape and the joy of sharing moments with friends and neighbors.”
Although the frequency of productions has changed over the decades, the current iteration of Newton Community Theatre does one mainstage show during the summer, and a fundraiser during the winter. Depending on the show, talent of all ages and experiences are able to hone their theater skills.
“We usually have a wide group of individuals involved in our shows,” said Tschetter. “Some are long-time theatre veterans, but many come with little or no theatre experience. We have production staff, such as directors, stage managers, technical directors, visual and audio technicians and more. We also have very talented performers who are all sourced from the surrounding area, and can range in age from elementary school-aged children to those who are retired.”
Newton Community Theatre is currently preparing for their summer 2024 show, Guys and Dolls, a beloved musical theatre classic set in Depression-era New York City. Show dates are July 19 through 21. Check the “Newton Community Theatre, Kansas” Facebook page for ticket information.
“Community theatre truly embodies the spirit of togetherness, making us smile, sparking conversations and reminding us of the magic that local theatre brings to our lives,” said Tschetter.