Boone Community Theatre is rehearsing to celebrate 50 years on the stage.
The stage lights first turned on for the community theater’s debut production in August 1975. A half-century later, the tradition continues with the organization’s 50th Anniversary Extravaganza on Sept. 12 and Sept. 13 at the downtown theater, 711 Story St.
The two shows will each feature different acts and music. Theatergoers will recognize faces from recent productions as well as actors who are making the trip back to Boone.
John Pea, event narrator, promises to keep things lively with backstage tales delivered with his signature sense of humor. Area businesses have contributed door prizes and silent auction items at each show.
50 years and ‘still going strong’
Longevity, consisentcy and a dedication to the craft have propelled the Boone Community Theatre through the years.
“The board members who started the theatre half a century ago would be thrilled to see we are still going strong,” Susan Herrick said in a news release.
Herrick, who first became involved with BCT in 1979, is among several volunteers organizing a 50th Extravaganza revue featuring scenes and songs produced over the past five decades.
“Boone Community Theatre has provided the opportunity for many talented players to share their creativity and innovation with this community,” Herrick said. “People always ask me ‘Where do you find all of this talent?’ and my consistent answer is that there is talent everywhere just looking for an outlet. BCT is that outlet.”
Gardner to return as Don Quixote
Garry Gardner joined the theater in 1981 and will reprise his 2024 role of Don Quixote during the revue. His first role with the group was in “The Legend of the Bridge” directed by Mary Maybee.
“Mary’s daughter-in-law, Betty Bushore Maybee played Kate Shelley in that production and my daughters, ages 8 and 5, played Kate’s younger siblings,” Gardner said.
Gardner has enjoyed acting since his youth and has played many different roles with Boone Community Theatre.
“Whether on stage or building props and sets, there’s a lot of satisfaction in seeing the enjoyment in the audience,” Gardner said.
How to get tickets to BCT’s 50th Anniversary Extravaganza
The first anniversary performance is 6 p.m., Friday, Sept. 12, which includes hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $25 for adults, and $15 for children 12 and under.
The second show will include a birthday party at 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for 12 and under.
Online ticketing is available at www.boonecommunitytheatre.org. Tickets may also be purchased at the door until they are sold out.
Ronna Faaborg covers business and the arts for the Ames Tribune. Reach her at rfaaborg@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Ames Tribune: This central Iowa community theatre is celebrating 50 years on the stage. What to know
Reporting by Ronna Faaborg, Ames Tribune / Ames Tribune
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