Bucyrus Little Theatre Celebrates Stellar 2024-25 Season & Announces Exciting 2025-26 Season Lineup

Bucyrus Little Theatre's production of Silent Sky, directed by Karellyn Sterling, received nine awards during the Ohio Community Theatre Association (OCTA) North Region's festival this spring at Wynford High School. In addition to being selected to be an alternate to attend the Ohio State OCTA festival, the cast and crew received "Excellence In Ensemble," "Merit in Direction (Sterling)," "Merit in Special Effects Lighting (Sterling)," "Merit in Acting (Patty Schwall and Kristie Chandler), Excellence in Acting (Beth Hartzler and Jason Chandler), and Merit in Sound Design (Rick Walker).

Reflection, Celebration, & Anticipation

Bucyrus Little Theatre (BLT) is thrilled to reflect on an extraordinary 2024-25 season filled with remarkable achievements, community engagement, and artistic growth. As we look forward to the 2025-26 season, we are excited to introduce our new Board of Directors and announce a vibrant lineup of shows that promise to captivate audiences.

Cindy Light and Martha Tidball accept the 2025 Organization of the Year award from the Crawford County Chamber of Commerce during its annual meeting and awards.

A Year of Unprecedented Growth and Impact

The 2024-25 season marked a transformative year for BLT, with significant milestones across memberships, sponsorships, digital presence, and community involvement. Notably, the community theatre was honored by the Crawford County Chamber of Commerce as one of two nonprofits recognized as "Organization of the Year" during the chamber's Annual Meeting and Awards event. The award recognizes outstanding accomplishments by a nonprofit organization that is advancing its mission, focusing on sustained fundraising, leadership, ethics, and programs for the community. Highlights of the 2024-25 Season included:

• Membership & Sponsorship Surge: BLT saw a 112% increase in memberships (44 new members) and a 40% increase in sponsorships (8 new sponsors), reflecting growing community support.

• Operational Enhancements: The first-ever board lock-in set clear goals, while new policies streamlined operations for box office, concessions, safety, and more. BLT secured a credit card for purchases, installed a security camera system, and began tracking volunteer hours.

• Facility Upgrades: Thanks to grants from the Community Foundation and Timken, BLT installed a new roof, purchased a Yamaha Clavinova, added a popcorn machine, a washer and dryer, a new awning, and improved parking lot accessibility. Additional upgrades include new wireless mics, a projector and screen, and enhanced office storage.

• Scholarship Program: The BLT Scholarship, funded by 50/50 raffles, was awarded to Samantha Dornbirer.

• Innovative Programming: BLT launched the Teen Improv Troupe, grew the Teen Theatre Club, and increased Acting Master Classes and community performances.

• Awards & Recognition: The cast of Silent Sky earned nine Regional OCTA awards, and BLT was honored as the Crawford County Chamber of Commerce’s Organization of the Year.

• Media Partnerships: BLT partnered with Crawford County Now for enhanced advertising, began advertising in the Community Magazine, and collaborated with MonsterVox Productions for pre-show announcements, phone messages, radio ads, and the launch of the “No Small Parts” monthly podcast.

Introducing the 2025-26 Board of Directors

BLT is proud to welcome its 2025-26 Board of Directors, a dedicated team committed to advancing the theatre’s mission:

• President: Abigail Kanellakis

• Vice President: Patty Schwall

• Business Manager: Cindy Light

• Treasurer: Michele Hoffman

• Secretary: Cheri Laughbaum

• House Manager: Tom Etsinger

• At-Large Members: Dave Cory, Trey Griggs, Allie Mueller, Julie Pollock, Barb Rigdon, Amber Sennet, Scott Smith
  

2025-26 Season: A Lineup to Thrill

BLT is excited to officially announce its 2025-26 season, featuring a diverse and exhilarating selection of productions:

• Bat Boy the Musical, directed by Scott Leon Smith – A wildly entertaining blend of satire and heart, this cult classic explores acceptance and identity through the story of a half-boy, half-bat.

• Christmas Belles, directed by Abigail Kanellakis – A hilarious holiday comedy filled with Southern charm, family chaos, and festive misadventures.

• Neil Simon’s Rumors, directed by Jason Chandler – A fast-paced farce packed with mistaken identities, witty dialogue, and comedic chaos.

• Mamma Mia!, directed by Rick Walker – The smash-hit musical featuring ABBA’s timeless songs, weaving a joyful tale of love, laughter, and family on a sun-drenched Greek island.

A Bright Future for BLT

“We are incredibly proud of the strides we’ve made this past season, from record-breaking attendance to transformative community partnerships,” said Abigail Kanellakis, BLT President. “Our 2025-26 season promises to build on this momentum, bringing unforgettable performances to Bucyrus and beyond. We invite our community to join us for a season of laughter, music, and storytelling.”

For more information on memberships, sponsorships, or tickets, visit the Bucyrus Little Theatre website at www.BucyrusLittleTheatre.com or follow the community theatre on Facebook and Instagram.