By DAVE MOSIER
The Van Wert Civic Theatre has a new production opening Thursday and it’s a good one — a really good one!
VWCT’s latest production is Catch Me If You Can, a 2009 musical by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman based on the 2002 movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio, which is itself based on the1980 autobiography by con artist Frank Abagnale Jr., written with Stan Redding.
The musical opens with Abagnale’s arrest by FBI agents led by Special Agent Carl Hanratty, the part played by Tom Hanks in the movie, in Miami International Airport. It then continues with a flashback to Abagnale’s youth in the 1950s, where his father, Frank Sr., a struggling businessman who kites checks, cheats on his taxes and cons banks into giving him loans he can’t pay back, instills that same grifting philosophy in his son.
When his parents divorce after his mother, Paula, is caught cheating with another man, Abagnale Jr. leaves home and begins a series of amazing impersonations, using his charm to pass himself off as an airline pilot, a doctor, and a lawyer, all for the purpose of writing millions of dollars in bad checks during a globetrotting spree that stretches over several years. He’s also being doggedly pursued by Hanratty and his FBI agents, who aim to stop his scamming ways.
Director Jerry Zimmerman and Music Director Terri Spencer have put together an excellent cast for what could be the smash hit of this VWCT season.
Ashton Szabados, who was impressive last season as Clyde Barrow in Bonnie and Clyde, a musical that recently competed at the state level, is also great as Abagnale Jr., playing the con artist with charm and endearing panache.
Nick Long plays Hanratty, Frank Jr.’s FBI nemesis, and is also wonderful as a driven man whose one and only aim in life is to bring Abagnale to justice.
Szabados and Long are the soul of this production, making Abagnale’s story not only believable, but also extremely entertaining. Both do a great job with the big numbers, but also add poignancy to the soft, emotional tunes.
(more…)POSTED: 09/16/26 at 8:31 pm. FILED UNDER: Arts & Entertainment, News
Submitted information
Off Stage Productions has announced the cast and crew for “As Long as We Both Shall Live” by Sean Grennan. The cast is as follows:
- Addison Ashe: Julie Suever
- Jamie Wilcox: Travis Nihiser
- Mrs. Wilcox Stephanie Wagner
- Raul Montalban: Dizzy Lantz
- Rev. Mountain: Daniel Sanderson
- Director: Matt Krol
- Assistant/stage manager: Michelle Foster
- Costumer: Lisa Eichler
Synopsis
Quirky genius Addison Ashe has finally met a man who can keep up with her — the wealthy and charming Jamie Wilcox. But marrying Jamie means wrangling with his disapproving mother, as well as her favorite over-the-top wedding planner, Raul. When Raul is poisoned at the rehearsal dinner, tensions between the clever bride and her mother-in-law to be go from heated to full-on inferno when Mrs. Wilcox points to Addison as the killer. Can Addison solve the case before sashaying down the aisle, or is she in for a honeymoon behind bars?
Location
All shows will be in the Commons at Vantage Career Center, 818 N. Franklin St., Van Wert. Enter Door 13 off the back parking lot where plenty of parking spaces are available.
Reservations
Reservations for Members open Monday, September 28. Reservations for the general public open Wednesday, September 30. Call the box office number 419.605.6708 on or after these days to reserve your tables and seats. Box office hours are 12-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, no Sunday calls, please. All shows require reservations, please, so producers may be certain of the amount of food or popcorn needed for that evening.
Price
Friday shows are “Popcorn Nights” — the $16 admission charge includes free popcorn with the show. Saturday evening and Sunday matinee shows are dinner theatre — $30 admission includes a delicious three-course catered meal, coffee, and the show.
Show dates
October 16, 17, 18, 23, 24 and 25. Friday doors open at 7 p.m. with the show 7:30 p.m.. Saturday doors open 6 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m., and the show 7:30 p.m. Sunday doors open 12:30 p.m., dinner at 1 p.m., and the show at 2 p.m.
The show is produced by special arrangement with Playscripts, Inc.
POSTED: 09/14/26 at 9:59 am. FILED UNDER: Arts & Entertainment
By Quincy Thompson
Van Wert LIVE is excited to welcome Kennedy Soltis as its newest CEO Program intern. Kennedy is a senior at Van Wert High School and will work alongside the Van Wert LIVE team throughout the school year, gaining firsthand experience in the many areas involved in operating a performing arts organization.
The CEO Program connects students from Van Wert County schools with local businesses and organizations, giving them the opportunity to explore potential career paths while developing valuable workplace skills. Through hands-on learning, students gain experience that extends beyond the classroom and helps prepare them for life after graduation.
During her internship, Kennedy will have the opportunity to learn about marketing, event preparation, customer service, arts administration, community outreach, and the behind-the-scenes work that brings live entertainment to the Niswonger Performing Arts Center and the Van Wert community.
“I am excited to learn from the Van Wert LIVE team and gain hands-on experience with the creative, artistic, and graphic design work that goes into promoting and producing live events,” Soltis said.
Van Wert LIVE is proud to have participated in the CEO Program for more than half a decade, welcoming local students into the organization and helping them discover the wide variety of careers available within the arts and entertainment industry. Each intern brings a new perspective, fresh ideas, and enthusiasm to the team.
“We are excited to welcome Kennedy to Van Wert LIVE and give her an inside look at everything it takes to bring live entertainment to our community,” said Jarin Hart, Executive Director of Van Wert LIVE. “The CEO Program is a wonderful opportunity for students to gain meaningful, real-world experience, and we are proud to continue investing in the next generation of local leaders.”
Van Wert LIVE is happy to welcome Kennedy Soltis, and her artistic eye, to the team.
To explore upcoming events at the Niswonger, visit vanwertlive.com. Tickets are also available through the Niswonger Box Office, open Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., either in person or by calling 419.238.6722.
POSTED: 09/14/26 at 9:47 am. FILED UNDER: Arts & Entertainment
By Quincy Thompson
Get ready for an afternoon filled with four-legged fun as Puppy Pals Live returns to the Niswonger Performing Arts Center at 2 p.m. Sunday, September 13. Featuring an incredible cast of talented rescue dogs, this family-friendly show combines impressive tricks, comedy, and plenty of personality for an experience that will have audiences of all ages laughing.
Puppy Pals Live has entertained audiences across the country, including an appearance on America’s Got Talent. Led by Wesley Williams, the show features adopted and rescued dogs performing everything from high-flying stunts and athletic tricks to hilarious routines. Each pup brings its own personality to the stage, making this a show where you never quite know what might happen next!
The performance is presented by the Porter & Squash Philanthropic Fund and supported by First Financial Bank, whose investment helps bring exciting, family-friendly entertainment to the Niswonger stage.
For some families, the opportunity to experience Puppy Pals Live goes even further. Through Van Wert LIVE’s Community Impact Program, tickets are made available to individuals and families who may otherwise face financial barriers to attending live arts and entertainment. Support from the First Financial Foundation and Mercer County Civic Foundation helps make those opportunities possible, extending the impact of the performance beyond the stage and into the community.
“Puppy Pals is exactly the kind of experience we love bringing to the Niswonger,” said Jarin Hart, Executive Director of Van Wert LIVE. “It’s fun, it brings families together, and through the generosity of our sponsors and community partners, we’re able to make sure even more people have the opportunity to experience the joy of live entertainment.”
Whether you’re a lifelong dog lover, looking for a fun Sunday afternoon with the kids, or simply ready for a show guaranteed to make you smile, Puppy Pals Live delivers. Come see these lovable rescue dogs take over the Niswonger stage on Sunday, September 13 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are available now. Gather the family and get ready to sit, stay…and enjoy the show. VANWERTLIVE.COM.
POSTED: 09/07/26 at 8:35 pm. FILED UNDER: Arts & Entertainment
VW independent staff/submitted information
The chase is officially on.
Van Wert Civic Theatre has revealed the cast for the upcoming musical production of Catch Me If You Can, directed by Jerry Zimmerman with music direction by Terri Spencer and choreography by Noelle Warnement.
Fly high with Frank Abagnale, Jr. in this high-energy musical comedy based on the hit 2002 film and incredible true story. From pilot to doctor to lawyer, follow the world’s most charming con artist as he out runs the FBI in a globe-trotting chase filled with glamorous sets, spectacular dance numbers, and a swinging 60’s score. Can the law catch him, or will Frank fly away with it all?
The cast features Ashton Szabados as Frank Abagnale, Jr., Nick Long as Agent Carl Hanratty, Drew Kantonen as Frank Abagnale, Sr., and Mary Ann Falk as Paula Abagnale. Cheyenne Weber stars as Brenda Strong alongside Kristin Lee as Carol Strong, Roger Rex as Roger Strong, and Nicole Merkel as Cheryl Ann, with Grant Boecker, Brian Hill, and Marcus Kerns appearing as FBI agents.
The ensemble who play a variety of roles includes Amy Boley, Renae Boecker, Sean Carpenter, Anna Cassidy, Leah Garmatter, Dianna Hicks, Katelyn Knepper, Doug Long, Jr., Brianna Luginbihl, Nicole Merkel, Alea Rex, Kimmy Warnecke, Noelle Warnement, Joe Warnement, and Jerry Zimmerman.
Get ready for an evening of big dance numbers, flashy sets, and an unforgettable cat-and-mouse game between Frank Jr. and the FBI. The box office will open to the public on Thursday, September 3. Admission is 18 with a senior discount ticket available for $16.
Show dates and times September 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, and 26, 2026 at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday matinees on September 20 and 27, 2026 at 2 p.m. at the Van Wert Civic Theatre, 118 S. Race Street. Reserve your tickets online at vwct.org or by calling 419.238.9689.
POSTED: 09/01/26 at 8:46 pm. FILED UNDER: Arts & Entertainment, News
By Quincy Thompson
The Niswonger Performing Arts Center will come alive with the sights and sounds of the season when the Wizards of Winter take the stage on Saturday, December 12. Presented by Danfoss and supported by Mercy Health and Superior Credit Union, this high-energy holiday production promises an unforgettable evening of music, storytelling and festive fun for the entire family.
The Wizards of Winter feature world-class musicians who have performed with classic rock giants including Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Rainbow, Def Leppard, Alice Cooper and Blue Öyster Cult, along with accomplished Broadway veterans. Together, they deliver a powerful blend of symphonic rock, soaring vocals and theatrical production.
The group’s holiday rock opera, The Christmas Dream, takes audiences on a musical journey in search of the true meaning of Christmas. From powerful rock anthems and moving ballads to snowballs, beach balls and even a visit from Mrs. Claus, the show offers plenty of surprises and holiday cheer for guests of all ages.
“At Danfoss, we pride ourselves on supporting the communities in which we live and work,” said Erika Lobsiger of Danfoss. “Supporting events such as these promotes goodwill and progress within the community. By making a positive social impact, we hope to inspire others to do the same.”
Supporting Sponsor Mercy Health shares, “At our core, Mercy Health’s mission is to improve the health of the communities we serve,” said Ann Styles. “Certainly that includes providing incredible healthcare to all who need us in northwest Ohio, but it also means investing in things that make our communities stronger. The arts and live entertainment do just that. They bring people together. They provide shared experiences from which to build relationships. And they offer a retreat for our minds during busy or stressful times. A thriving arts community can truly improve the health and wellbeing of those we serve.”
Fellow Supporting Sponsor, Superior Credit Union, offers their support for the community as well. “Superior Credit Union is proud to support our local communities through many avenues, including entertainment and the arts,” explained Kelsey Joseph, Director of Marketing for Superior Credit Union. “Van Wert LIVE gathers amazing entertainment for the tri-county area, and this holiday show is no exception. We look forward to supporting more shows in the future and enjoying Wizards of Winter.”
Whether the Wizards of Winter are already part of your family’s holiday traditions or this will be your first time experiencing their spectacular production, The Christmas Dream is a thrilling way to celebrate the season together. Tickets start at just $29 and are available through the Niswonger Performing Arts Center Box Office and online at VANWERTLIVE.COM.
POSTED: 08/31/26 at 1:49 pm. FILED UNDER: Arts & Entertainment
VW independent staff/submitted information
The stage is set and the getaway car is packed. Bonnie and Clyde ride again.
Over Labor Day weekend, a 25-member ensemble of cast, crew, and directors from the Van Wert Civic Theatre will travel to Lima to represent Northwest Ohio at the Ohio Community Theatre Association (OCTA) State Conference.
VWCT is one of just 15 community theatre groups selected from across the state to perform at the three-day annual festival, held at the Veterans Memorial Civic & Convention Center in downtown Lima.
VWCT will take the stage at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, September 6, to perform a 40-minute excerpt of their hit musical production from September of 2025, Bonnie & Clyde.
Earning a spot at the state showcase is a significant achievement. After qualifying at the Northwest Regional OCTAFest earlier this summer, the Van Wert Civic Theatre was selected to join 14 other regional excerpt winners for the statewide celebration of community theatre excellence.
The excerpt competition tests technical precision as much as performance quality: each group has strict time limits to load in their set pieces, present a seamless 40-minute cut of their show, and load off the stage under the eyes of state adjudicators. Theatres from around the state will spend the weekend taking part in professional theatre workshops, networking with fellow groups from across Ohio, and watching performances from the participating theatres.
The festival culminates on Sunday evening with the annual OCTA Awards Banquet, where productions will be recognized with state honors for acting, vocal performance, directing, and technical execution.
Anyone can attend the Ohio Community Theatre Association festival. For registration information, visit the OCTA website at octa1953.org.
To learn more about Van Wert Civic Theatre and their upcoming season, visit vwct.org.
POSTED: 08/29/26 at 12:07 am. FILED UNDER: Arts & Entertainment, News
By Quincy Thompson
Award-winning Christian and gospel artist Jason Crabb will bring his powerhouse vocals and heartfelt music to the Niswonger Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, September 19. Known for blending Southern Gospel, country and contemporary Christian music, Crabb has built a career around songs of faith, hope and encouragement.
Crabb is a two-time Grammy Award winner and a 22-time GMA Dove Award winner. His honors include recognition as Artist of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year, along with awards for songs and albums that have connected with audiences around the world. His impressive career has also taken him to celebrated stages including Carnegie Hall, the Grand Ole Opry and the Brooklyn Tabernacle.
Throughout his career, Crabb has shared the stage and collaborated with an incredible range of artists, including Vince Gill, Gary LeVox, Blake Shelton, Brad Paisley, Wynonna, Michael W. Smith, Kari Jobe, Sandi Patty and the Oak Ridge Boys. His newest album, Through the Fire, also features collaborations with Vince Gill, the Gaither Vocal Band and The Voice winner Chris Blue, bringing new life to longtime favorites alongside brand-new original songs.
“Jason Crabb is the kind of artist who connects with an audience from the very first song,” shared Jarin Hart, Executive Director of Van Wert LIVE. “His voice is incredible, but it is the heart and sincerity behind his music that make his performances so meaningful. We are excited to welcome him to the Niswonger for what will be a powerful and uplifting evening.”
Jason Crabb’s performance is presented by Strategence Capital, whose generous support helps bring outstanding live entertainment to the Niswonger stage. Tickets are available now through the Niswonger Box Office and online at VANWERTLIVE.COM.
POSTED: 08/24/26 at 10:26 am. FILED UNDER: Arts & Entertainment
VW independent staff/submitted information
LIMA — The third annual Love Conquers All Reggae Fest will return to the Greater Lima Region Park & Amphitheater this Saturday, August 22. The family-friendly festival will bring an afternoon and evening of live reggae music, food, local vendors, community and positive energy to downtown Lima.
This year’s featured performers include The Ark Band and The Flex Crew, both from Columbus, Stedic Music from Lima, and a special Rising Roots opening artist.
The gates will open at 1 p.m. and music will begin at 3 p.m. with live performances continuing throughout the evening at 128 E. Spring St., Lima.
Founded on the belief that music has the power to unite people from all walks of life, Love Conquers All Reggae Fest is growing into one of northwest Ohio’s premier reggae events. Now in its third year, the festival welcomes attendees from across Ohio and neighboring states to enjoy live entertainment, food vendors, local businesses and a welcoming atmosphere for the entire family.
“Our mission is simple: to bring people together through music, culture and community,” festival organizers said. “Love Conquers All is more than a concert. It is a celebration of unity, positivity and the belief that our community is stronger when we come together.”
Advance tickets and tickets at the gate are $12. Tickets are available at https://loveconquersallfest.com.
POSTED: 08/17/26 at 10:35 am. FILED UNDER: Arts & Entertainment
By Quincy Thompson
At the Niswonger Performing Arts Center, the spotlight may shine brightest on the stage, but so much of what makes each event successful happens beyond the audience’s view. Behind every warm welcome, scanned ticket and helping hand is a dedicated team of volunteers who generously give their time to make unforgettable experiences possible.
We recently had the opportunity to celebrate these remarkable individuals during our annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. It was an evening filled with gratitude, fellowship and recognition for the people who give so much to Van Wert LIVE, the Niswonger Performing Arts Center and our summer concerts at Fountain Park.
Our volunteers are often the first people guests meet when attending an event. They greet visitors at the doors, scan tickets, help patrons find their seats, assist with coat check and answer questions throughout the evening. Their kindness and willingness to help set the tone for the entire guest experience.
However, their impact extends far beyond completing a list of tasks. Our volunteers are ambassadors for the Niswonger and for the entire Van Wert community. They help create the friendly, welcoming atmosphere that makes guests want to return again and again. Whether someone is visiting us for the first time or has been attending performances for years, our volunteers help every person feel at home.
They also play an important role in the success of our free Feel Good Friday concerts at Fountain Park. From helping guests and supporting event operations to being available whenever an extra hand is needed, their service allows thousands of people to gather downtown and enjoy live entertainment together.
As we prepare for an exciting fall season at the Niswonger, our volunteers are once again gearing up to welcome audiences through our doors. A busy season of entertainment would not be possible without their commitment, flexibility and enthusiasm. We are deeply grateful for every person who chooses to share their time and talents with us.
To all our volunteers: thank you. Thank you for the hours you give, the smiles you share and the many ways you serve our guests, performers and community. You are a vital part of everything we do, and our appreciation for you extends far beyond one dinner or one evening of recognition.
If you have ever considered volunteering at the Niswonger, we would love to welcome you to our team. Volunteer opportunities include serving as an usher, ticket scanner, door greeter, coat-check attendant, and more. It is a wonderful way to meet new people, support the arts and play an active role in bringing exceptional entertainment to Van Wert. Those interested in becoming a volunteer are encouraged to contact the Niswonger box office. Our team will be happy to provide more information and help you begin the process.
The performances may happen onstage, but our volunteers help make the entire experience possible. For that, they deserve a standing ovation of their own.
To see what is coming up at the Niswonger, head to vanwertlive.com.
POSTED: 08/17/26 at 10:31 am. FILED UNDER: Arts & Entertainment
