The Merc Playhouse in Twisp has announced its 2027 performance schedule, which includes two Readers’ Theater plays and four full-stage productions.
Missi Smith, chair of The Merc’s Play Selection Committee, said “I would say it’s a season with something for everyone. We have been hearing requests for ‘Misery’ for a number of years and we are excited that the stars finally aligned to include it next year.”
“There’s comedy, drama, touching personal stories, and family-oriented choices, as well as content enjoyed by our adult or more mature theater goers,” Smith said. “For interested actors, there are some fantastic roles in this line-up for all ages and experience levels.”
As for the process, Smith said, “The Play Selection Committee reviewed over 40 scripts, including four original submissions from emerging playwrights. We begin reading again in January for 2028 if anyone has recommendations.”
Scheduled in 2027 (with synopses provided by The Merc) are:
• The season launches with “Still Alice,” by Lisa Genova and Christine Mary Dunford, a Readers’ Theater production directed by Christine Kendall, to be presented Jan. 22-24. “A brilliant university professor faces an uncertain future after being diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Heartbreaking yet hopeful, the play offers an intimate look at memory, identity and the enduring power of love.”
• The first full production of the year, “Wagon Wheels a-Rollin’,” by Tim Kelly, a Tom Zbyszewski Children’s Theater full production directed by Jane Orme, will be presented March 19-28. “A stranded wagon train is thrown into chaos when it is robbed and trailblazing hero Chuck Wagon is accused of the crime. Packed with colorful characters, ridiculous twists and Wild West humor, this fast-paced spoof is a laugh-filled adventure.”
• Next up is “Love Letters,” by A.R. Gurney, another Readers’ Theater production, directed by Carolanne Steinebach. It will be presented April 16-18. “Through decades of letters, childhood friends Andre and Melissa share their dreams, disappointments and complicated feelings for one another. Their lifelong correspondence creates a tender and bittersweet story of love, friendship and missed opportunities.”
• The psychological thriller “Misery,” by William Goldman based on the novel by Stephen King, a full production directed by Don Nelson, will be presented July 16-25. “After a car accident, successful novelist Paul Sheldon is rescued by Annie Wilkes, his self-professed ‘No. 1 fan.’ When Annie discovers that Paul has killed off her favorite character, his recovery becomes a terrifying fight for survival.”
• The third full production of the year, “Eureka Day,” written by Jonathan Spector and directed by Phil Quevillon, will be presented Oct. 8-17. “When a mumps outbreak strikes a progressive private school, its well-meaning board members struggle to reach consensus about vaccination. This sharp, timely comedy explores what happens when a community that agrees on everything suddenly cannot agree on the truth.”
• The year concludes with “Anne of Green Gables,” by Sylvia Ashby based on the book by L.M. Montgomery, a full production directed by Jane Orme and Magnolia Brown. It will be presented Dec. 10-19. “When siblings Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert request an orphan boy to help on their farm, they are unexpectedly sent the spirited and imaginative Anne Shirley. Through adventures, mishaps and new friendships, Anne transforms Green Gables into a place filled with love and belonging.”
In addition, the theater will host a to-be-announced production by the Liberty Bell Drama Company in mid-May.
Audition announcements, ticket information, and additional season updates will be shared throughout the year. For more information, visit mercplayhouse.org.
