President’s Hello to the Sherman Players’ Community.
It is with great excitement that I begin my tenure as president of the Sherman Players.
As a long-time resident of Sherman, I have always appreciated the value that our community theatre brings to the town. Having served as theatre critic for the Citizen News (now Town Tribune) in the 1990s, I was a frequent audience member, and I recall the production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream most fondly. More recently, I had the honor of participating in the Sherman Opry, an annual benefit for the theatre. Though I have not yet trod the boards in a main stage production at the Playhouse, I know its vibrancy is an essential part of the Sherman community, and I hope to contribute to a thriving future.
During this first month of my term, I have been impressed with what is already happening at the Playhouse.
Our 2025 season is a wonderful mix of classic and modern plays. Dinner with Friends had a successful run with positive feedback from our audience and theatre critics. Up next is Much Ado About Nothing, directed by our Artistic Director, Robin Frome. Set at the turn of the 20th Century, this production has a talented cast and some nods to theatre traditions that were prevalent during the first years of the Sherman Player’s existence. In September, we will mount a production of Bernhardt/Hamlet directed by Kyle Minor. Also set in the early 1900s, this play is sure to fill the playhouse with laughter at the hijinks of a world-famous diva. And of course, Bradford Blake’s Wreck the Halls will round out the season with its bawdy humor for the holiday season.
Alongside our main stage productions is our (almost) monthly series, Cold Lemonade. Produced by board member Morgana Kate Watson, this series brings to life snippets of new works with impromptu casting and cold readings. Sometimes the work is brilliant, sometimes silly, but it is always an opportunity for aspiring playwrights to see their writing in action in a fun and supportive environment. Several of the works featured at Cold Lemonade have gone on to full productions in the region.
On June 19th our new board member, Dan Harnden, is launching 5-Minute Theatre. This is a scene study workshop where actors new and seasoned can polish up their monologues for auditions or performances or just to hone their craft. These free workshops are meant to be part of a pathway to great performances on all of the local stages.
And let’s not forget, Al Chiappetta’s Playhouse Karaoke! Where else can you find a chance to sing your heart out with that perfect backing track and a spotlight to boot?
We are busy all right, and there is more to come. Mark your calendars for this year’s Sherman Opry…August 9 and stay tuned for more updates as we work to make the Sherman Players the home of great theatre and community theatre development in the region.
Missy Alexander
