I'Three Rivers Community Players

51st Season​

Members vote for their favorites 

The top vote getters from each categry will be produced during the 2023-2023 season! 

(pending rights availability)

Plays (Simply Classic)

Much Ado About Nothing (Scripts cost: $70) Bickering lovers, scheming villains, and mistaken identity abound in ''Much Ado About Nothing'', one of Shakespeare's most popular comedies which is best known for giving us the unforgettable romantic duo of Beatrice and Benedick. First written and performed in 1598 or 1599, it has been performed almost constantly ever since. 14 Performers

Importance of Being Earnest (Rights/Scripts cost: $320) Oscar Wilde’s sophisticated comedy. Two young ladies, Gwendolen from the city and Cecily from the country, are in love with Earnest Worthing. But there is no such person as Earnest Worthing. Gwendolen thinks Jack is Earnest, and Cecily thinks Algy is Earnest. Each girl swears that she could never love a man who wasn't named Earnest. In the midst of all this confusion comes Lady Bracknell, who doesn't like the idea of anybody loving anybody. The two sets needed for this play have been a downfall of other one-act versions. A consistent contest winner, this adaptation combines the three acts into one and provides the necessary set change without a break in the action. 5 m, 4 f

The Odd Couple (Rights/Scripts cost: $825) This classic comedy opens as a group of the guys assemble for cards in the apartment of divorced Oscar Madison. And if the mess is any indication, it's no wonder that his wife left him. Late to arrive is Felix Unger, who has just been separated from his wife. Fastidious, depressed, and none too tense, Felix seems ready to take matters into his own hands, but as the action unfolds, Oscar becomes the one with murder on his mind when the clean freak and the slob ultimately decide to room together with hilarious results as The Odd Couple is born. 6 m, 2 f

Mousetrap (Rights/Scripts cost: $830) The scene is set when a group of people gathered in a country house cut off by the snow discover, to their horror, that there is a murderer in their midst. Who can it be? One by one the suspicious characters reveal their sordid pasts until at the last, nerve-shredding moment the identity and the motive are finally revealed. This Agatha Christie penned murder mystery is the world’s most successful and longest-running play ever. 3 f, 5 m ]

Plays (New Works)

The Geese Don’t Fly South Anymore (Rights/Scripts cost: $360) Bio TBA

[Local work. Written by Tom Yost]

Two x Four x Murder (Rights/Scripts cost: $360) Carrie moves back to her hometown and in with her mother after her father passes away. She reluctantly takes over the family lumberyard business per her parents' wishes while also escaping an abusive boyfriend. Just two days after meeting the elderly "Old Squire" at the lumberyard, his murdered body is found under one of the lumberyard buildings. She investigates who may have had problems with the old man, all the while dealing with the local Detective, contractors and employees who feel she shouldn't take over management of the lumberyard. As she investigates his murder she discovers why the old Squire said there was "gold in them the’re hills" ultimately placing herself and the detective in danger from the murderer.  [Local work. Written by Lorraine J. Anderson] 

She Kills Monsters (Rights/Scripts cost: $895) The story of Agnes Evans as she leaves her childhood home in Ohio following the death of her teenage sister, Tilly. When Agnes finds Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons notebook, however, she finds herself catapulted into a journey of discovery and action-packed adventure in the imaginary world that was her sister’s refuge. In this high-octane dramatic comedy laden with homicidal fairies, nasty ogres, and 90s pop culture, acclaimed playwright Qui Nguyen offers a heart-pounding homage to the geek and warrior within us all. 6 f, 3 m

Love/Sick (Rights/Scripts cost: $800-$900) A darker cousin to Almost, Maine, John Cariani’s LOVE/SICK is a collection of nine slightly twisted and completely hilarious short plays. Set on a Friday night in an alternate suburban reality, this 80-minute romp explores the pain and the joy that comes with being in love. Full of imperfect lovers and dreamers, LOVE/SICK is an unromantic comedy for the romantic in everyone. 2-10 Performers (Flexible Cast)

Showstopping Musicals

Jesus Christ Superstar (Rights cost: $1,650) What’s the buzz? The first musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice to be produced for the professional stage, Jesus Christ Superstar has wowed audiences for over 40 years. A timeless work, the rock opera is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary and universally-known series of events but seen, unusually, through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. Loosely based on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, Superstar follows the last week of Jesus Christ’s life. The story, told entirely through song, explores the personal relationships and struggles between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, his disciples, his followers and the Roman Empire. 9 roles (plus Ensemble)

Legally Blonde (Rights cost: $2,100) A fabulously fun award-winning musical based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde The Musical, follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Action-packed and exploding with memorable songs and dynamic dances - this musical is so much fun, it should be illegal! 7 roles (plus Ensemble)

Seussical (Rights cost: $2,100) Now one of the most performed shows in America, Seussical is a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza! Tony winners, Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (Lucky Stiff, My Favorite Year, Once on This Island, Ragtime), have lovingly brought to life all of our favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, lazy Mayzie and a little boy with a big imagination – Jojo. The colorful characters transport us from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos. 8 roles (plus Ensemble)

Urinetown (Rights cost: $2,100) In a Gotham-like city, a terrible water shortage, caused by a 20-year drought, has led to a government-enforced ban on private toilets. The citizens must use public amenities, regulated by a single malevolent company that profits by charging admission for one of humanity's most basic needs. Amid the people, a hero decides that he's had enough and plans a revolution to lead them all to freedom! Inspired by the works of Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill, Urinetown is an irreverently humorous satire in which no one is safe from scrutiny. Praised for reinvigorating the very notion of what a musical could be, Urinetown catapults the "comedic romp" into the new millennium with its outrageous perspective, wickedly modern wit and sustained ability to produce gales of unbridled laughter. 14 roles (plus Ensemble)

Blackbox Musicals

Godspell (Rights cost: $2,100) A small group of people help Jesus Christ tell different parables by using a wide variety of games, storytelling techniques and a hefty dose of comic timing. An eclectic blend of songs, ranging in style from pop to vaudeville, is employed as the story of Jesus' life dances across the stage. Dissolving hauntingly into the Last Supper and the Crucifixion, Jesus' messages of kindness, tolerance and love come vibrantly to life. 10 roles (Any Gender)

Ride the Cyclone (Rights cost: $1,825) In this hilarious and outlandish story, the lives of six teenagers from a Canadian chamber choir are cut short in a freak accident aboard a roller coaster. When they awake in limbo, a mechanical fortune teller invites each to tell a story to win a prize like no other — the chance to return to life. A funny, moving look at what makes a life well-lived! 3 f, 4 m

Last 5 Years An emotionally powerful and intimate musical about two New Yorkers in their twenties who fall in and out of love over the course of five years, the show's unconventional structure consists of Cathy, the woman, telling her story backwards while Jamie, the man, tells his story forward; the two characters only meet once, at their wedding in the middle of the show. Featuring a two-person cast, it is great opportunity for actors with both range and stamina. This intimate musical is perfect for small theatre companies and black box venues. 1 f, 1 m

Little Shop of Horrors (Rights cost: $1,730 - $2,340) The meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles across a new breed of plant he names "Audrey II" - after his coworker crush. This foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore promises unending fame and fortune to the down and out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it, BLOOD. Over time, though, Seymour discovers Audrey II's out of this world origins and intent towards global domination! 4 f, 4 m (flexible Ensemble)

25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Rights cost: $2,100) An eclectic group of six mid-pubescents vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime. While candidly disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives, the tweens spell their way through a series of (potentially made-up) words, hoping never to hear the soul-crushing, pout-inducing, life un-affirming "ding" of the bell that signals a spelling mistake. Six spellers enter; one speller leaves! At least the losers get a juice box. A riotous ride, complete with audience participation, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a piece of comedic genius. 4 f, 5 m

Jr. Shows

Matilda Jr. (Rights/Scripts cost: $1,625 - $2,195) Matilda has astonishing wit, intelligence... and special powers! She's unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly loveable Miss Honey. Matilda's school life isn't completely smooth sailing, however – the school's mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, hates children and just loves thinking up new punishments for those who don't abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts, and could be the school pupils' saving grace! Packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs, Matilda JR. is a joyous girl power romp. Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination. 19 roles (+ Ensemble)

School House Rock Jr. (Rights/Scripts cost: $1,625 - $2,195) A loose, revue-like structure allows for a great deal of flexibility in staging and cast size in this energetic musical, which follows Tom, a young school teacher, who is nervous about his first day of teaching. He tries to relax by watching TV, when various characters representing facets of his personality emerge from the set and show him how to win his students over with imagination and music. Memorable songs like "Just a Bill," "Lolly, Lolly, Lolly" and "Conjunction Junction" bring his lesson plans vividly to life. 8 roles (+ Ensemble)

Press Start! (Rights/Scripts cost: $400) A new 45-minute musical for young actors that transports us inside the bright, pixelated world of video games. When the famous characters we know and love run out of lives, they decide to put on a musical fundraiser that will help them raise gold rings and play on. Through hilarious and heartfelt musical numbers we see a side of the heroes, villains and sidekicks we’ve never seen before. But when things go terribly awry, will the quiet sidekick Little Mushroom find the hero inside of her to save the day? PRESS START is composed entirely in 8-bit synthesizers reminiscent of those incredible soundtracks from the original Nintendo and Sega consoles. 20 roles (+ Ensemble)

Junie B. Jones The Musical Jr. (Rights/Scripts cost: $1,625 - $2,195) Join Junie B. on her first day of first grade, where many changes are in store: Junie's best friend Lucille has found new best friends -— and Junie B. makes friends with Herb, the new kid at school. While in Mr. Scary's class, Junie has trouble reading the blackboard — and she may need glasses. Add in a friendly cafeteria lady, an intense kickball tournament and a "Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal," and first grade has never been more exciting. 25 roles (+ Ensemble)

Christmas Shows

The Christmas Bus (Rights cost: $700) It's Christmas Eve, and Mrs. Frump, the director of the Peaceful Valley Orphanage, is planning what she believes will be the most special Christmas ever for her kids. She's borrowed an old bus and arranged for each child to spend Christmas with a family in the area. The only problem is, she hasn't told the Busybodies on the orphanage board of trustees, who believe Frump has gotten too old and soft to handle the rowdy kids at Peaceful Valley. With the help of teenage Thomas, the oldest of the orphans and her trusty right-hand man, Frump sets off to deliver the kids—pursued by the suspicious Sheriff Snodgrass and the Busybodies. It's an adventuresome ride, culminating in a Christmas even more special than Frump could have ever imagined. 3 m, 5 w, 9 children (flexible)

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!) (Rights cost: $700) Instead of performing Charles Dickens’ beloved holiday classic for the umpteenth time, three actors decide to perform every Christmas story ever told -- plus Christmas traditions from around the world, seasonal icons from ancient times to topical pop-culture, and every carol ever sung. A madcap romp through the holiday season! 3 performers

Miracle on 34th Street (Radio Play) (Rights cost: $800) By chance, Kris Kringle, an old man in a retirement home, gets a job working as Santa for Macy's. Kris unleashes waves of good will with Macy's customers and the commercial world of New York City by referring parents to other stores to find exactly the toy their child has asked for. Seen as deluded and dangerous by Macy's vocational counselor, who plots to have Kris shanghaied to Bellevue Psychiatric Hospital, Kris ends up in a court competency hearing. Especially at stake is one little girl's belief in Santa. In a dramatic decision, the court confirms Kris as the true Santa, allowing Susan and countless other children to experience the joy of childhood fantasy. 4 f, 3 m

A Christmas Carol (Radio Play) (Rights cost: $340) The Charles Dickens holiday classic comes to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast, complete with vintage commercials for fruitcake (extra-fancy), and the magic of live sound effects and musical underscoring. A handful of actors bring dozens of characters to the stage, as the familiar story unfolds: Three ghosts take Ebenezer Scrooge on a thrilling journey to teach him the true meaning of Christmas. A charming take on a family favorite that will leave no one saying "Bah Humbug!" 3 f, 4 m (7-41 actors possible: 2-18 f, 3-23 m)

Senior Reader’s Theatre 

His Girl Friday (Scripts cost: $260) When hard-charging New York newspaper editor Walter Burns discovers that his ex-wife, investigative reporter Hildy Johnson, has gotten engaged to milquetoast insurance agent Bruce Baldwin, he unsuccessfully tries to lure her away from tame domestic life with a story about the impending execution of convicted murderer Earl Williams. But when Hildy discovers Williams may be innocent, her reporter instincts take over. This is a reading of the movie screenplay- which has entered the public domain.

(6-20 actors possible)

Great Gatsby (Rights cost: $285) F. Scott Fitzgerald's beloved classic comes to life as a 1940s radio broadcast in this spirited adaptation of The Great Gatsby. An ensemble brings more than two dozen characters from the novel to the stage of the WBFR radio station for a live broadcast, punctuated by 40s-era commercials. A story of triumph and tragedy that reflects the decadence of the Jazz Age and the perils of the American Dream. Still, ain't we got fun? 2 f, 4 m (6-25 actors possible: 2-9 f, 4-16 m)

Vintage Hitchcock (Rights cost: $285) Spies, murder, love, and other trademarks of Alfred Hitchcock come to life in the style of a 1940s radio broadcast of the master of suspense's earlier films. With The Lodger, Sabotage and The 39 Steps, Vintage Hitchcock: A Live Radio Playis a triple feature, complete with vintage commercials, that recreates a daring train chase, a serial killer's ominous presence, and a devastating explosion through the magic of live sound effects and musical underscoring. This spooky, exciting piece is perfect for any space, large or small.

2 f, 3 m (2-30 actors possible: 1-10 f, 1-20 m)

Twelfth Night (Scripts cost: $100) Twelfth Night is a romantic comedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written around 1601–1602. The play centers on the twins Viola and Sebastian, who are separated in a shipwreck. Viola (who is disguised as Cesario) falls in love with the Duke Orsino, who in turn is in love with Countess Olivia. Upon meeting Viola, Countess Olivia falls in love with her thinking she is a man. 3 f, 4 m (14-15 actors possible: 4 f, 10m)

Other Exciting opportunities! (these categories won't be included in the vote)

10 Minute Play Fest ($10 per submission)

Starting at 10am, groups will have one whole day to put together their 10 minute play. Audiences will rate each show based on 3 categories: Creative Writing, Actor Commitment, and Emotional Impact- along with these there will be a spot for comments; encouraging the audience to help provide feedback to the writers in order to help them continue working on their projects.

Let The Sunshine In - A 60’s and 70’s Cabaret

Our cabaret is coming back for another year! With a panoply of different songs from the 1960s and 1970s- this show is going to make a huge splash. Covering radio hits, hidden gems, and great musicals from the experimental time period that was post golden age but pre-mega musical. Hear music from ABBA, The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, Jim Croce, Hello Dolly, Hair, Forum, Grease, and so many more in this year’s cabaret!