Abrams Spotlight Productions is thrilled to announce our 6th Annual Silent Auction and we need your support. This exciting event is a crucial fundraiser for ASPI, and your contribution will make a real difference!
In 2020, the ASPI Silent Auction was introduced as a response to the challenges posed by the pandemic. With the inability to stage live shows for the community, there arose a critical need to find alternative means of generating funds to sustain the theater operations. Thus, the Silent Auction was conceptualized and has since garnered increasing interest and support each year! The event is hosted entirely online, so bidders do not need to come to the theater to participate.
Popular items in the past include a charcuterie board, a sunset sailing excursion, and Brigette’s “famous” chocolate-covered peanut butter balls (which have sold for more than $100!) Gift cards consistently sold at face value or even more, and there were intense bidding wars for memorable props from previous shows, such as the Haynes sisters’ blue peacock feathers from White Christmas.
ASPI is currently accepting donations for this year’s auction. We are in need of baskets, gift cards, and various services. If you are unable to put together a donation, you can contribute money which will be used to purchase gift cards and offset the fee for using the online bidding platform. For inquiries or to donate items, you can contact the theater at theater.aspi@gmail.com or by calling the box office at 920-826-5852. We will gladly arrange for the pick-up of any donated items.
The 6th annual Silent Auction will open on Wednesday, December 10 at noon and close on Sunday, December 14 at 8 pm. Please mark your calendars!
Meet the Cast of Magic Tree House Presents: A Ghost Tale for Mr. Dickens Jr!
We are so excited to announce the incredible young performers who will bring this magical holiday story to life. From Jack and Annie’s time-traveling adventure, to Charles Dickens, to the spirited ensemble—this cast is full of talent!
Presale tickets are currently available to Spotlight Sponsors and will be available to the general public October 4. Don’t miss this magical holiday adventure!
Featured Roles:
Morgan Le Fay – Nora Hatch
Merlin – Joey Martin
Jack – Trent VandeWalle
Annie – Claire Harkins
Dickens – Brady Cox
Emma – Amelia Holtger
Olive – Elyse Finger
Mrs. Tibbs – Jillian Johnson
Collin – Hank Nicholson
Harry – Hannah Nicholson
Mrs. Pinch – Hailey Marquardt
Mr. Pinch – Nick Blaser
Green Ghost – Jessalyn Beaumia
White Ghost – Lindsay Faris
Black Ghost – Ruby Anderson
Caroler #1 – Elyse Finger
Caroler #2 – Lucille McDowell
Young Caroler – Amelia Holtger
Carriage Driver/Cabbie – Caitlin Harkins
Carriage Horses – Teagan Tessmer & Alaina McGrew
Ensemble:
Alaina McGrew, Amelia Martin, Anna Flory, Aubrey McGown, Audrina Larsen, Tristyn Larsen, Cassidy Mikol, Dorothy Masse, Elaina Finger, Ember Gossen, Evelyn Gossen, Emmerson Kuhn, Evette Campbell, Branny Jones, Fayda Jones, Kyla Karcz, Lilah Jones, Lily Woodke, Lillian McDowell, Michael McDowell, Clara Faris, Bree Hatch
Congratulations to the entire cast—we can’t wait to see you shine on stage this holiday season!
What an incredible evening we had at our Appetites & Applause Volunteer Appreciation Cookout! With an amazing turnout, the theater patio was filled with the sounds of laughter, conversation, and — of course — applause for our dedicated volunteers. Guests enjoyed a delicious BBQ spread complete with fresh corn on the cob, burgers, brats, and sides, all while reconnecting and celebrating the people who make ASPI thrive.
The night was filled with fun and friendly competition, as attendees tried their luck at bingo and tested their theater knowledge in trivia. Smiles and prizes were shared all around, adding a lighthearted energy to an already joyful event. Beyond the games and food, the evening offered volunteers a chance to connect, swap stories, and share their passion for theater — both on stage and behind the scenes.
One of the most exciting moments of the night was the unveiling of our 2026 season lineup, along with the introduction of our upcoming directors. But we didn’t stop there — we also gave a glimpse into the exciting future of ASPI beyond 2026. The energy in the room was electric, and it was clear that excitement is building for everything yet to come. We’re so grateful to every volunteer, past, present, and future, who makes this community possible.
Are you heartfelt like Horton? A showstopper like Rose? Laid-back like Curly? Flirty like Ado Annie? Or a mischievous wild card like The Cat in the Hat? Take this quiz and find out!
1. How would your friends describe you? A. Loyal and thoughtful B. Bold and ambitious C. Chill and charming D. Fun-loving and flirtatious E. Wild, clever, and unpredictable
2. What’s your ideal way to spend a weekend? A. Volunteering or helping someone B. Building your empire (or at least planning it) C. Hanging out outdoors with a guitar D. Going on dates or dancing with friends E. Causing a little harmless chaos just for fun
3. What’s your biggest strength? A. Compassion B. Drive C. Confidence D. Humor E. Creativity
4. What’s your biggest flaw? A. You worry too much B. You can be a bit controlling C. You’re stubborn D. You fall hard and fast E. You don’t always think before you act
5. In a group, you’re usually: A. The dependable one B. The one in charge C. The voice of reason D. The flirt E. The wildcard
6. Which quote speaks to you the most? A. “A person’s a person, no matter how small.” B. “I had a dream… a wonderful dream.” C. “Ain’t nobody gonna talk me down.” D. “I’m just a girl who cain’t say no!” E. “Look at me! Look at me! Look at me NOW!”
7. What’s your biggest life goal? A. To make a real difference B. To be unforgettable C. To live simply and happily D. To find fun and love wherever you go E. To shake things up and never be boring
8. Pick a musical number you’d love to perform: A. “Alone in the Universe” (Seussical) B. “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” (Gypsy) C. “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’” (Oklahoma!) D. “I Cain’t Say No” (Oklahoma!) E. “Oh, the Thinks You Can Think!” (Seussical)
🥁 RESULTS 🥁
Mostly A’s: You’re Horton the Elephant (Seussical)! Kind, steady, and deeply loyal. You never give up on the people (or Whos!) you love—even when no one else believes.
Mostly B’s: You’re Rose (Gypsy)! You were born for the spotlight. Ambitious and bold, you dream big and stop at nothing to make things happen.
Mostly C’s: You’re Curly (Oklahoma)! A natural charmer with a laid-back vibe and a heart of gold. You’re strong, sweet, and always ready with a song.
Mostly D’s: You’re Ado Annie (Oklahoma)! Playful, romantic, and irresistibly fun. You’re open-hearted and spontaneous—even if you sometimes get in over your head.
Mostly E’s: You’re The Cat in the Hat (Seussical)! You’re a whirlwind of energy and imagination. A creative trickster who brings the fun, shakes things up, and always leaves a lasting impression.
We’re counting down the days to one of the most exciting moments of the year at Abrams Spotlight Productions — our 2026 season reveal! Mark your calendars for October 1st, when we officially announce the three incredible shows that will light up our stage next year. After months of thoughtful discussion, collaboration, and planning, our selection committee has curated a season that is bold, dynamic, and filled with heart — a true reflection of the high-caliber theater our audiences have come to expect.
The upcoming season promises the same quality and passion that have defined our past productions, with an exciting twist — new directors will be bringing their fresh perspectives and unique visions to the stage. These talented individuals are ready to put their creative stamp on each show, ensuring every production feels both familiar and brand new. Whether you’re drawn to big musical moments, powerful storytelling, or family-friendly fun, there’s something in this lineup for everyone.
Our 2026 season is designed to entertain, inspire, and unite audiences of all ages. We can’t wait to share the titles with you and begin this next chapter of theater magic in Abrams. Stay tuned for the big reveal on October 1st — we promise, it’ll be worth the wait!
When disaster strikes, laughter follows… repeatedly.
If you had the joy of seeing The Play That Goes Wrong, then you know it’s a masterclass in comedic chaos. From collapsing scenery to flubbed lines and hilariously overcommitted performances, this show delivers nonstop laughter. While it’s nearly impossible to choose just five, here are the top moments that had audiences in absolute stitches:
1. The Repeating Lines (and the Unforgettable Spit Take) At the heart of live theater is the unpredictable—and when characters get caught in an accidental loop of repeating lines, the result is comedy gold. Add in a perfectly mistimed (and generously sprayed) spit take MULTIPLE TIMES, and the scene turns into an uproarious mess of confusion, frustration, and surprise. It’s the kind of moment where the actors’ commitment to the bit is as impressive as it is hilarious.
2. The Wall of Woes: Objects Keep Falling (and They Keep Putting Them Back)
Cecil Haversham and Thomas Colleymore deserve medals for endurance and timing during the infamous “wall mishaps.” As set pieces begin to tumble off the walls mid-scene, the two struggle desperately—and with increasing panic—to restore order without breaking character. Their back-and-forth attempts to prop up pictures and décor while trying to maintain dialogue is slapstick perfection.
3. Florence Colleymore and the Window Debacle
When Florence Colleymore gets knocked out cold, what’s the logical solution? Pull her limp body through a tiny window, of course. What follows is one of the most side-splitting physical comedy routines of the entire show. Cast and crew awkwardly maneuver, hoist, and wrestle with the unresponsive Florence in a valiant (and ridiculous) effort to keep the show going. The audience reaction? Roaring laughter.
4. The Not-So-Smooth Exit of Charles Haversham
When it’s time to remove the “lifeless” body of Charles Haversham from the scene, the cast attempts what should be a simple task. But nothing is ever simple in The Play That Goes Wrong. What follows is a hilariously botched effort that includes an unceremonious slide, a very uncooperative stretcher, and a dramatic exit that leaves poor Charles in quite the predicament. It’s a moment that perfectly captures the show’s blend of physical comedy and escalating absurdity.
5. Annie and Trevor’s (Very) Dramatic Interpretation of Florence Colleymore
When the actors start dropping, it’s up to stage manager Annie and technician Trevor to save the show—and their attempts to fill in for Florence Colleymore are gloriously terrible. From stiff body language to bizarre vocal inflections, their performances are the theatrical equivalent of duct tape and hope. The result? Some of the biggest laughs of the night.
Special Mention: Trevor’s Unexpected Moment with Arthur the Gardener
Of all the unexpected moments in the show, one of the biggest laugh-getters comes from Trevor and Arthur the Gardener. What begins as a simple case of filling in onstage quickly spirals into something wildly absurd—and side-splittingly funny! We won’t spoil the gag, but trust us: it’s worth seeing for yourself. Audiences have erupted with laughter every time, proving that even the crew can deliver some of the show’s most unforgettable comedy.
Whether you laughed until you cried or are still laughing over your favorite parts, these moments are what made The Play That Goes Wrong so incredibly right. What was your favorite moment? Don’t miss the encore performances of The Play That Goes Wrong, returning by popular demand September 19–21 at Abrams Spotlight Productions! If you missed it the first time—or just want to laugh all over again—this is your chance to experience the hilarious mayhem that had audiences in stitches. Tickets are on sale now, so mark your calendars and grab your seats before they’re gone. Join us for one more round of theatrical disaster done right!
Self-efficacy. An individual’s belief in their ability to succeed in a specific situation or accomplish a task.
Back in 2010, while taking a college psychology course, we created a small experiment. There were two different groups of adults over the age of 30 given a basic knowledge exam. Group A was told before the exam, “Most people over the age of 30 do poorly on this exam,” while Group B was told, “Most people over the age of 30 do really well on this exam.” As the test results came in, we noticed a trend: Group B scored significantly higher on the test. Many other, more official studies have shown this same thing to be true. New Year’s resolutions always seem to fade away right around the time your brain starts telling you, “I can’t really read 20 books this year.”
In my life, theater has been the place where I have noticed the power of self-efficacy more than anywhere else. When I show up to an audition, a rehearsal, or a performance very shy with a head full of “I’m going to make a fool of myself,” those doubts almost always join me on the stage. In contrast, in moments where I really believe in myself and the work put in, I tend to get the most positive feedback from crowds (laughter, cheering, kind words afterwards). That is exactly why I have been so passionate about helping other people believe in themselves!
There has been no greater joy over my six years with ASPI than watching a fellow actor’s face light up when they step onto the stage and completely own a moment. We are so thrilled this year to be offering our first-ever audition workshop for younger performers. Auditioning can be such a scary thing for people. “What if they don’t like me?” “What if my voice cracks during my song?” “What if I forget the words?” “What if I wore the wrong shirt?” Our hope during the audition workshop is to empower young actors in our area to walk into their auditions with much more confidence, so that they can achieve their highest potential. Ultimately, my hope is that the self-confidence students learn on stage at our theater translates into all of the other areas of their lives—because the first step in changing the world for the better is believing that you can.
We’re excited to share that ASPI’s first kids camp will be held on August 17th! While all spots have already been filled, we do have a waitlist started. If you’re interested in getting on the list, please call the box office at 920-826-5852.
My first foray into theater was with Machickanee Players in Oconto. My kiddos were little girls when I joined the fold. They are now in their forties. I did lights and sound for such productions as Blithe Spirit and, my favorite, Our Town. (My then 11-year-old daughter Lauren played Rebecca Gibbs.) I was on stage in a fair number of plays, and directed a few as well. I also ended up directing spring productions at Oconto High School while my daughters attended. It was a marvelous experience to share with my daughter (she chose to work back stage for productions I directed) and all the students. I was witness to their transformations into character and overcoming shyness and fear. I saw the impact of having taken on and accomplishing the challenge of being part of a production.
What I cherish from those years of involvement was a grounding and a deep awareness of what makes community theater so dear, so special: the friendships and the setting aside of our personal lives for a few hours each night during rehearsals to be ‘in the moment’ and interact ‘in character.’ (This is a cathartic and life-changing experience which expands and enhances one’s perspective on life.) And it culminates in opening night and the live performances before an audience of people who live where you do.
The sphere of Broadway theater is the pinnacle of professional achievement. But community theater offers something Broadway cannot: the immediacy, the familiarity between audience and actors when the lights go up. They are not strangers. They are friends who grew up in the same town, the people who cross paths while doing weekend errands or out for a Friday night fish fry, perhaps even fellow fans at a Packers game. And when the lights go up, they are people watching actors they know on the stage, or actors seeing people they know amongst the spectators in the seats.
There is a magic in community theater and it is grounded in that familiarity. It takes root from the very first rehearsals and grows exponentially. Back stage staff, set designers and builders, those who find (or make) the props, those who coordinate the wardrobe, lighting and sound—volunteers all—create the world the actors will inhabit. Actors bond and come to trust each other while they memorize lines and become familiar with each other ‘in character,’ knowing that everyone is taking things extremely seriously even as they enjoy the process of becoming the characters they are playing. The director manages it all in a way, as the old saying goes, that is rather like shepherding cats, watching the actors grow into and inhabit their characters as the production begins to take shape. And, at the end of the rehearsal evening, reflecting back to them what is working (or not quite), all toward Opening Night, when the magic is shared with the audience and draws them into it.
Being on stage before an audience is rather a freefall. It can be daunting, but oh, so exhilarating, to be ‘in the moment,’ being the character, interacting with each other in creating the reality of the play’s story. We achieve the same level of perfection in local theater productions as would be found in any running on Broadway. But whether as actors or crew, technicians, builders, coordinators, director, or audience members, we are privileged to experience that perfection with people we know—as friends, or family, or even simply in passing.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making The Play That Goes Wrong a truly unforgettable—and record-breaking—experience! Your laughter, energy, and standing ovations filled our theater with life, and we couldn’t be more grateful for your overwhelming support. This run has been one for the books, and it’s all because of you—our amazing audience.
But wait… the chaos isn’t over yet.
Back by Popular Demand… It’s an Encore Performance!
That’s right! Due to unprecedented demand, we’re thrilled to announce three encore performances of The Play That Goes Wrong:
September 19, 20 & 21 Tickets on sale NOW
Whether you missed the madness the first time or just can’t get enough of the hilarious mayhem, this is your chance to see the show that had everyone in stitches—one more time!
A Brief Intermission… But We’ll Be Back!
While our stage will be going dark for a short time, we’re already preparing for our next big adventure:
Auditions for A Ghost Tale for Mr. Dickens Jr. will be held August 19 & 20. Mark your calendars and stay connected on social media for more audition details.
Help Keep the Spotlight Bright
Community theater thrives because of passionate people like you! Here’s how you can support ASPI:
Donate – Help us continue bringing high-quality productions to our community. Every dollar makes a difference.
Volunteer – Whether backstage, ushering, or behind the scenes—there’s a place for you in our theater family. Email us at theater.aspi@gmail.com to get involved.
With sincere appreciation, Abrams Spotlight Productions Excitement is Building at YOUR Community Theater
Don’t miss this magical holiday adventure!
Featured Roles:
Congratulations to the entire cast—we can’t wait to see you shine on stage this holiday season!
