AYAT show a big hit; four shows left

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What happens when a man who hates musicals suddenly finds himself trapped in one?

The answer is one of the funniest, most thrilling, and delightfully bizarre productions to hit the Van Wert Civic Theatre stage in years.

After a wildly successful opening weekend, Van Wert Civic Theatre’s Adolescent and Young Adult Theatre (AYAT) production of The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals has audiences laughing, cheering, and talking long after the final curtain call. With four performances remaining, theatre lovers still have the opportunity to experience this cult-favorite musical before it closes.

Under the direction of Alyssa Taylor, with Perri Webb serving as Music Director and Emily Gehle as Assistant Director and Choreographer, the production masterfully blends comedy, horror, science fiction, and musical theatre into a fast-paced adventure that keeps audiences guessing from beginning to end.

Leading the cast is Sean Carpenter as the reluctant hero, Paul Matthews, whose quiet life is turned upside down when the residents of Hatchetfield are mysteriously compelled to burst into song. Abbie Mengerink shines as Emma Perkins, while Andy Walpole delivers plenty of laughs as Ted Spankoffski. Kim Salisbury brings warmth and humor to Charlotte Sweetly, and Charles Bennett gives a heartfelt performance as Bill Woodward.

The production is filled with memorable supporting performances, including Carson Caprella as the eccentric Professor Hidgens, Evan Joseph in the dual roles of Mr. Ken Davidson and Sam Sweetly, Payton Frese as Alice Woodward, Landon Adams as the unforgettable General John MacNamara, Chloe Parker as Zoey Chambers/Greg, Ella Lamb as Nora/Soloist Cop, Emily Gehle as the Greenpeace Canvasser, Freya Blount as the Homeless Guy, Emily Ayers as Deb, Anna Cassidy as Colonel Schaffer, Sophie Berryman as Melissa, Alyssa Taylor as the Obnoxious Teen, and Sav Merkel as the Nurse.

Rounding out the production is a talented ensemble featuring Colton Easterday, Josh Hohman, Sav Merkel, and Evvy Lamb, whose energy, vocals, and commitment help bring the quirky town of Hatchetfield to life.

From its powerful musical numbers and laugh-out-loud comedy to its imaginative staging and cinematic technical effects, the production showcases the incredible talent, dedication, and teamwork of this outstanding group of young performers and volunteers. Opening weekend audiences rewarded the cast with enthusiastic applause and glowing reviews, praising both the high-energy performances and the show’s unique blend of humor and suspense.

Whether you’re already a fan of The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals or are looking to experience something completely different, this production offers an unforgettable night at the theatre. With only four performances remaining, now is the perfect time to see why audiences have been raving about this one-of-a-kind production.

Performances continue Thursday, July 30, through Saturday, August 1, at 7:30 p.m., with a final matinee performance on Sunday, August 2, at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $18 and are available atvwct.org or by calling the Van Wert Civic Theatre Box Office at (419) 238-9689.

Audience Advisory: The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals contains adult language, violence, sexual language, gunshots, drug references, smoking, blood, and gore. Viewer discretion is advised. 

Van Wert Civic Theatre extends its sincere appreciation to Biggby Coffee, the production sponsor of The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals, for its generous support of community theatre and the performing arts in our community.