A Note from the Board

Welcome friends and neighbors as we usher in the Dorset Players’ 80th anniversary season of bringing quality community theatre to the Northshire and beyond. For all of those who have ever trod the boards, helped backstage or in the box office, or attended a play or musical, a heartfelt thank you.

Our theme for this special season is "celebrating the past - setting the stage for the future." The Players launch a wonderful line-up of shows in October, reprising "A Thousand Clowns," a poignant comedy first produced by the Players in 1974 and now directed by Steven Sinding, assisted by his wife, Monica Knorr. In early December, the Players revisit a musical version of the children’s classic, "A Velveteen Rabbit". As in 1997, the production will be directed by Kevin O’Toole. The musical director will be fellow board member Joanne Beck.

The Missoula Children’s Theatre will return in late January to produce "Cinderella," offering area children and their parents an additional opportunity to experience the magic of theatre on-stage and in area schools. Last season, over 50 young people were cast in Missoula’s spirited production of "The Pied Piper of Hamelin."

In March, Janet Groom directs "Amadeus", Peter Shaffer’s examination of a mediocre 18th century composer haunted by his lone recognition of the genius of his contemporary, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. In early April, we continue our season with the 5th Annual One-Act Play Festival, which affords fledgling directors a chance to spread their wings. We close our season in May with one of the great American musicals: "Gypsy." Director Suzi Dorgeloh and Musical Director Linda Hueckel return to ensure that "everything is coming up roses."

As a patron of the arts, we know that you appreciate live theatre, and you can help to ensure that the Dorset Players will enjoy another eighty years by filling out the membership form in a playbill at one of our productions and becoming a member. Membership privileges include our newsletter, which will keep you apprised of dates of upcoming auditions, productions, and special events to celebrate our 80th anniversary season. I’ll see you at the Playhouse!

Errol Hill
President, Board of Trustees