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The Civic Theater Project

A Civic Theater Project production is far more than a performance; every step in the creation process– from writing to rehearsing, volunteer cooking to set construction, acting to attending– is an opportunity for engagement and connection across cultural divides.

When we talk about Civic Theater, we mean theater in the broadest sense of the word – a homemade carnival, a live-action automaton, an original dinner theater performance. The common thread of our theater projects is that they involve, entertain, reflect, and contribute to the community in which we live.

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A Civic Theater Project production is far more than a performance; every step in the creation process– from writing to rehearsing, volunteer cooking to set construction, acting to attending– is an opportunity for engagement and connection across cultural divides.

 

While community theaters traditionally produce pre-existing “professional” plays, Civic productions are made from the town. They are set in the region where they are performed, and are written by and for people who live there. Where many theaters serve audiences who have the cultural capital needed to attend, the Civic actively connects with unlikely theater goers. Success is measured not by press recognition or awards but by the diversity and engagement of our attendees. 

 

Our wider volunteer crew is massive, as we invite and include community participation at every step in the process. These volunteers come from all walks of life, offering a rich variety of professional and lived experiences.

The Civic Theater Project

Past Productions

A Christmas Carol
December 2024

Scrooge isn’t dead, he’s here in our town today! The Civic Theater Project’s adaptation of “A Christmas Carol” tells the classic holiday story, but is fully present to our shared reality. This grand production, spilling out of the of the Highland Center for the Arts, features a huge cast of professional locals, children, musicians and first time performers, and includes an elaborate feast worthy of the Crachit’s table.

Change Your Life: Hardwick's Only All Human Game Show
May 2024

 “Change Your Life” was a homespun game show played by locals beginning back in 1846 and lasting until 1979. But, like many town traditions, it abruptly ended, leaving a hole in the heart of Hardwick. We are dusting off the sequins, updating the games, and bringing this interactive spectacle back to life onstage at the Hardwick Town House!  Featuring thrilling games of chance and skill, fabulous prizes, and real fun, all attendees have a chance to win big, and change their lives in front of the whole audience!

The Garage of Doom
October 2023

A mysterious object has appeared in eroded soil along the Lamoille River. The exact nature of this unique and dangerous "device" is unknown. Citizens will have one opportunity to view this diabolical engine before it is permanently removed by the authorities. Viewings will be held at regular intervals in the weekend leading up to Halloween, at the site of the former Brochu Citgo Garage.

The Hardwick Midway Project
May 2022 & 2023

In the middle of Atkins Field, at the edge of downtown, you can find the famous "STEP RIGHT UP" CARDBOARD CARNIVAL. Don't miss out on a chance to play games such as "Grader Rager", "Slots O'Fun", and "What's My Job?"

Developed to Death
A Murder Mystery
April & September 2023

The Legal Voters of the Town of Hardwick (and beyond), are hereby notified and warned to act on the following business: A zoning meeting to take place at the Hardwick Legion, concerning a proposed multi-use development on Bridgman Hill. At said meeting, there just might be a murder, and (during a three course meal) the mystery of whodunit will certainly need to be solved.

WANT TO GET INVOLVED?

Contact us to help with the next big show or event. No experience necessary, all skill sets welcome.

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