A new community theater, Playhouse 44, has taken root in Avon, Connecticut, spearheaded by founder and artistic director Joel Samberg. The theater aims to revive the spirit of local performance art, providing an inclusive space for creativity and community engagement.
The history of community theater in the United States reflects a rich tradition dating back to the early 20th century, when many towns established volunteer-based groups to showcase popular melodramas and comedies. While interest waned in recent decades due to the rise of other entertainment options, Avon’s need for a local theater became apparent. Samberg, a seasoned theater enthusiast with a background in writing for publications including the Hartford Courant, felt compelled to create a platform for aspiring artists and theater-goers alike.
Playhouse 44 has been active for just two years, but it has quickly made a name for itself with its latest production, “First You Smile.” Scheduled for August 22, 2023, the show will be performed at Avon High School, offering two showings at 14:00 and 19:00. The production, subtitled “Explorations on Love, Laughter, and Loose Ends Bench Pursuits,” features a captivating assortment of scenes, drawing from both classic literature and original works.
The program includes adaptations from celebrated playwrights such as George Bernard Shaw and elements inspired by iconic performances from the 1960s. Samberg issued an open call for new 10-minute plays, resulting in approximately 200 submissions. He meticulously selected five pieces, including his own, for this eclectic program. Notable contributors include Kit Webb, Dave Carley, Tony Vale, Beth Harpaz, and Mark Harvey Levine, each exploring various facets of love through their unique styles.
In total, “First You Smile” will showcase the work of five directors and a cast of 15 actors, all brought together through an inclusive casting process that encouraged community participation. “Nothing official, we’re still evolving,” Samberg noted, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in shaping the theater’s identity.
Affordability is a key pillar of Samberg’s vision, with tickets priced at just $10, ensuring accessibility for all. He has also prioritized the quality of promotional materials, ensuring that playbills serve as cherished mementos for attendees. “It’s important that people feel the theater experience from the moment they enter,” he remarked.
The establishment of Playhouse 44 has been supported by a grant from the Avon Greater Together Community Fund, which is managed by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. Additionally, the theater seeks donations throughout the year and hosts fundraising events at local venues, such as American Flatbread Pizza in Canton.
Looking ahead, Samberg is eager to expand the theater’s repertoire. While he embraces innovative new works, he also expresses a desire to produce classic plays reminiscent of the 1960s and 1970s. “First You Smile” marks Playhouse 44’s second full production, following a similar selection of one-acts performed last year. The theater has also hosted concert events at local businesses and provided entertainment for corporate gatherings.
In the coming months, Playhouse 44 has scheduled various events, including a series of two-person scenes performed at an assisted living facility, a Halloween-themed storytelling concert, and a holiday concert. With a commitment to a year-round calendar of performances, Samberg is actively seeking a dedicated performance space for the theater, ensuring that it remains a vibrant part of the Avon community for years to come.
Through Playhouse 44, Joel Samberg not only aims to entertain but also to foster a love for live theater, connecting the community through shared artistic experiences.