THE CIVIC THEATER PROJECT

BY US. ABOUT US. FOR US.

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.

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.

GET IN TOUCH to help with the next big show or event.

No experience necessary, all skill sets welcome.

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UP NEXT!

Developed to Death! A Murder Mystery Dinner Theater Production

September 21, 22, and 23, at 6pm (with a 1pm matinee Saturday)

At the Hardwick American Legion, Post #7

The Legal Voters of the Town of Hardwick (and beyond), are hereby notified and warned to act on the following business: A zoning meeting 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.

This is no off-the-shelf murder mystery. It takes place in Hardwick, was written in Hardwick, features several prominent Hardwickians playing themselves, and guarantees at least five local inside jokes. The project was conceived of by Rose Friedman and Justin Lander (of Vermont Vaudeville and Modern Times Theater). This event is produced by the Civic Standard, features a cast of 20 local actors, and was written collaboratively with a crew of hilarious Vermonters.

Tickets will be available in person only at The Civic Standard, for $30.

The price of admission includes a three course meal, an evening of drama and comedy and of course the opportunity to help solve a crime, alongside your friends and neighbors.

TRIVIA

On the last Thursday of each month at the Village Restaurant from 6-8pm, hosted by a rotating roster of locals. Lynn is generously opening the door just to host this monthly community game, and will be offering a limited menu of burgers, wings and appetizers. This is a first come, first serve event, with room for roughly ten teams.

HAIKU CLUB

All are welcome the first Wednesday of each month from 5:30- 7pm at the Civic. During our time together, we will read some published haiku and review suggested guidelines for writing haiku. Feel free to bring a piece you are currently working on to share with the group. Hardwick Haiku strives to be a supportive and fun environment. No previous haiku experience is needed to join. This event is hosted by Mark Scott in collaboration with the Civic Standard. Soup and snacks will be provided.

OLD-TIME JUNKET

With a vision to revive community fiddling and a regional old-time music repertoire, all are welcome to join us on the last Wednesday of the month for an old-time jam session at the Civic! All players of string band-style instruments - fiddle, banjo, guitar, bass, and mandolin - are encouraged to attend. Repertoire will be based on southern and northern old-time fiddle tunes. All levels of proficiency are welcome. (As per session etiquette, if you are an absolute beginner, please play on the periphery.) The session is free of charge, but donations are welcome. Snacks and beverages will be provided, and listeners are welcome to attend.

OLD-TIME FIDDLE CLASS

Every third Monday at 7pm. This group class is for beginners and up! Thanks to the generous support of Dana Robinson and Cabot Arts this class is free, though donations are always gratefully accepted. Get in touch with any questions.