Hey, how's it going?

Jamie Ulmer • May 13, 2025

How are things at the theatre?


That’s the standard way I’m greeted when out and about. I certainly don’t mind, and it’s more interesting than the non-interest greeting of “how are you?” The theatre is a much more interesting topic of conversation than I am. At the same time, I know people don’t have time for a complete answer of how things are going at Theatre Lawrence.


In short, good – busy as always. The slightly longer answer is – very busy but we’re keeping all the plates spinning and proud of what we’re achieving.


Somehow, we are just a few weeks away from wrapping up the regular season with “Escape to Margaritaville.” Things are gearing up for all our summer youth programs including starting rehearsals for “The Lightning Thief” and the Penguins are hard at work on “Little Mermaid, Jr”. The new season will be here before we know it. Early bird season tickets for the 2025-2026 season are available now, and we’re in the midst of all the planning and staffing up for those shows.


It’s also a time of challenges. We are planning our way forward following the loss of our friend and colleague Mary Ann Saunders. Like many individuals and organizations, we are keeping an eye on the latest developments from the Federal government and how it may impact us and our community going forward.


Overall, though, things at the theatre are going well, with solid attendance, and excitement about future projects.


See you at the theatre

Jamie Ulmer

Executive Director


Theatre Lawrence News & Announcements

August 14, 2026
"CHASING NIRVANA"  CAST LIST: Presley..........Vivi Riffel Sam...............James Green Tommy........Brodie Breckenridge Jettie.............Melia Stockham June..............Courtney Chacon Kat..................Kerry Hagner Charlie.........Brenden Oliver Jacob...........Havok Kiser Frank.............Ryan Hamlin-Canady Opie...............Stephanie Ellis Ann.................Gladys Demby Jasmine......LaShea Johnson
By Jamie Ulmer July 20, 2026
Joy. That's the only word I can think of to describe the feeling that has been radiating from the TL stage over the past several weeks. First came the joy of our annual Penguin Project production. Seeing youth with special needs take the stage and experience the audience's warm appreciation each night is nothing short of magical. This year's production of Alice in Wonderland Jr. proved it with time-obsessed rabbits, murderous Queen of Hearts, and ever-growing and shrinking young Alices. That was followed last weekend by our sold-out run of Guys and Dolls SR ., our very first Vintage Players senior musical. The joy was written on the face of every cast member, some of whom were appearing in their very first show (one made her acting debut at 83!). That joy carried over after each performance as friends, children, and grandchildren eagerly waited to congratulate the cast.  There's one more weekend of summer joy on tap as we present two youth productions, Willy Wonka KIDS and The Aristocats KIDS , playing in repertory this Friday and Saturday. Sharing joy like this makes all the schedule juggling, rehearsals, and investment of resources worthwhile. It reminds us why we support community-based, locally produced theatre. There is truly nothing like it, and we're thrilled to have been bringing that joy to our community for 50 years. Our exciting 50th Anniversary Season is about to begin, and we can't wait to share that joy with you! Jamie Ulmer TL Executive Director
Purple poster with a skull-and-crossbones and the title “PIRATES! Penzance the Musical”
July 17, 2026
View the cast list for 'Pirates! The Penzance Musical.' Tickets go on sale August 3. Check it out!
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