Barn Theatre announces summer lineup for 77th season

For more than seven decades, it has been one of the more anticipated bits of news each summer.

What will be the lineup of shows at the Barn Theatre?

Well, the wait is over.

The Augusta Barn Theatre has announced a diverse range of shows for its 77th season, which will kick off with 'The Great Big Bar Show' from June 6-18 - a special event where attendees can enjoy a sample of the upcoming season in the intimate Rehearsal Shed. The show offers the opportunity to meet the new faces of the company, interact with the actors and indulge in food and drinks.

After that appetizer, the main event will be the eight shows that will make up the season for one of the longest running Professional Equity Summer Stock Theaters in the country.

"We are overjoyed to welcome everyone back to the Barn Theatre for our highly anticipated 77th season. The love and support we have received from our patron and community have been truly remarkable and have fueled our dedication to making this season the best one yet. Join us this season for thrilling mysteries, beloved classics, and tropical escapes that will transport you to different worlds and leave you inspired,” said Penelope Ragotzy of the Augusta Barn Theatre, Michigan's oldest professional summer company, which was founded in 1946.

Featured for the 77th season

June 20-July 2: 'Million Dollar Quartet' - A high-energy jukebox musical that takes you back to a legendary moment in the history of rock and roll when Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Johnny Cash came together for an unforgettable jam session in Memphis. The play features the classic hits from the era.

July 5-16: 'Anything Goes' - The classic Broadway show features toe-tapping tunes, colorful characters and plenty of laughs. Featuring timeless songs like 'I Get A Kick Out Of You' and 'Anything Goes', this show is a blend of nostalgia and modern day fun.

July 18-30: 'Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery' - A thrilling whodunit featuring the legendary Sherlock Holmes and his sidekick Dr. Watson. With five actors playing over 40 different characters, it is a comedy with quick changes, silly accents and physical comedy.

Aug. 1-13: 'The Wizard of Oz' - The classic comes to life on stage as Dorothy and her friends travel down the 'Yellow Brick Road.' A show for all ages, featuring the timeless songs 'Over The Rainbow' and 'We're Off To See The Wizard'.

Aug. 15-27: 'Escape to Margaritaville' - A tropical comedy featuring the classic hits of Jimmy Buffett such as 'Margaritaville', 'Cheeseburger In Paradise' and 'Come Monday.' the show features a talented cast of singers and dancers for a musical escape.

Aug. 29-Sept. 3: 'Nunsense' - The musical comedy has been entertaining audiences for decades. Packed with memorable songs and unforgettable characters.

Sept. 7-10: 'Clue -The Play' - A comedic murder mystery based on the classic board game. Guests arrive for a dinner party, only to find themselves in a deadly game of whodunit.

Sept. 14-17: 'The Gift' - An original play, 'The Gift' is a spellbinding drama about one woman's extraordinary ability to see the future.

For information about the season, show details, ticket information, and more, visit www.barntheatreschool.org. The box office opened Tuesday.

Contact Bill Broderick at bbroderi@battlecreekenquirer.com. Follow him on Twitter @billbroderick.

This article originally appeared on Battle Creek Enquirer: Barn Theatre announces summer lineup for 77th season