Family fun coming to the NPAC

By Quincy Thompson

Families have one more opportunity to make lasting memories together before summer comes to a close when The Amazing Bubble Factory Live takes the stage at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center at 2 p.m. this Saturday, August 8.

Before the performance, the fun will begin outside the Niswonger with bounce houses and face painting available free of charge for everyone attending the show. Guests are encouraged to arrive early and enjoy these special activities before heading inside for an afternoon filled with bubbles, laughter, and family-friendly entertainment.

The Amazing Bubble Factory transforms ordinary soap bubbles into an unforgettable theatrical experience. Audiences will see bubbles of all shapes and sizes, along with impressive visual effects and plenty of interactive fun that will delight children and adults alike.

“This is the perfect opportunity for families to squeeze in one more special outing together before summer ends and school routines begin again,” said Jarin Hart, Executive Director of Van Wert LIVE. “We are incredibly grateful to OhioHealth, Gary Taylor, and Paulding Putnam Operation Round Up for helping us make this an exciting and affordable afternoon for families throughout our community.”

The performance is presented by OhioHealth and supported by Gary Taylor. Thanks to the generosity of Paulding Putnam Operation Round Up, the pre-show face painting and bounce houses will be offered to guests at no additional cost.

Van Wert LIVE is also making it easy and affordable for the entire family to attend. A special Family Four Pack is currently available for only $59, and individual tickets start at just $16.

Make The Amazing Bubble Factory LIVE part of your family’s end-of-summer celebration at 2 p.m. Saturday, August 8, at the Niswonger. 

To become a member, purchase tickets, or learn more, visit VANWERTLIVE.COM or contact the Niswonger Box office open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., by calling 419.238.6722.

AYAT show a big hit; four shows left

Submitted information

What happens when a man who hates musicals suddenly finds himself trapped in one?

The answer is one of the funniest, most thrilling, and delightfully bizarre productions to hit the Van Wert Civic Theatre stage in years.

After a wildly successful opening weekend, Van Wert Civic Theatre’s Adolescent and Young Adult Theatre (AYAT) production of The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals has audiences laughing, cheering, and talking long after the final curtain call. With four performances remaining, theatre lovers still have the opportunity to experience this cult-favorite musical before it closes.

Under the direction of Alyssa Taylor, with Perri Webb serving as Music Director and Emily Gehle as Assistant Director and Choreographer, the production masterfully blends comedy, horror, science fiction, and musical theatre into a fast-paced adventure that keeps audiences guessing from beginning to end.

Leading the cast is Sean Carpenter as the reluctant hero, Paul Matthews, whose quiet life is turned upside down when the residents of Hatchetfield are mysteriously compelled to burst into song. Abbie Mengerink shines as Emma Perkins, while Andy Walpole delivers plenty of laughs as Ted Spankoffski. Kim Salisbury brings warmth and humor to Charlotte Sweetly, and Charles Bennett gives a heartfelt performance as Bill Woodward.

The production is filled with memorable supporting performances, including Carson Caprella as the eccentric Professor Hidgens, Evan Joseph in the dual roles of Mr. Ken Davidson and Sam Sweetly, Payton Frese as Alice Woodward, Landon Adams as the unforgettable General John MacNamara, Chloe Parker as Zoey Chambers/Greg, Ella Lamb as Nora/Soloist Cop, Emily Gehle as the Greenpeace Canvasser, Freya Blount as the Homeless Guy, Emily Ayers as Deb, Anna Cassidy as Colonel Schaffer, Sophie Berryman as Melissa, Alyssa Taylor as the Obnoxious Teen, and Sav Merkel as the Nurse.

Rounding out the production is a talented ensemble featuring Colton Easterday, Josh Hohman, Sav Merkel, and Evvy Lamb, whose energy, vocals, and commitment help bring the quirky town of Hatchetfield to life.

MSVW offering free movie night

VW independent staff/submitted information

A fun-filled evening of entertainment is in store, as Main Street Van Wert welcomes the community to Ohio Goes to the Movies, featuring Disney’s highly anticipated Zootopia 2 this Saturday, August 1, at Fountain Park.

The evening’s festivities will begin at 6:30 p.m., giving families time to gather, enjoy the park, and spend time together before the movie. Disney’s Zootopia 2 is expected to begin around 8:45 p.m., once it is dark enough for the best viewing experience.

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and their favorite movie snacks.

The free community event is sponsored by Van Wert Manor.

“We’re thrilled to continue offering free events that bring our community together,” Main Street Van Wert Executive Director Mitch Price said. “A special thank you to Van Wert Manor for sponsoring this event and helping provide a memorable evening for local families.”

For updates and additional community events, follow Main Street Van Wert on Facebook.

Rumours, Ashley McBryde shows planned

By Quincy Thompson

The fall season at the Niswonger continues to grow with the addition of two exciting performances. From the timeless music of Fleetwood Mac to the honest, powerful storytelling of country star Ashley McBryde, these newly announced shows bring even more variety to an already outstanding lineup.

On Saturday, October 24, at 7:30 p.m., Rumours: The Fleetwood Mac Tribute will bring the legendary band’s greatest hits to the Niswonger stage. Presented by Roger and Kay Okuley, this high-energy tribute recreates the sound and spirit of Fleetwood Mac with remarkable attention to detail.

Audiences can look forward to favorites such as “Go Your Own Way,” “Dreams,” “The Chain,” “Rhiannon,” and many more. From the unmistakable harmonies to the memorable guitar solos, Rumours delivers an authentic concert experience designed to make fans feel as though they are seeing Fleetwood Mac at the height of its success.

Then, on Thursday, November 5, at 8 p.m., Grammy Award-winning country artist Ashley McBryde makes her way to Van Wert, joined by fellow country star Tami Neilson. The performance is presented by First Bank of Berne and supported by Bruce and Julie Kennedy.

Known for her powerful voice, sharp songwriting, and deeply personal lyrics, McBryde has become one of country music’s most respected performers. Her music captures stories of small towns, complicated lives, hard-earned lessons, and finding strength through it all. Songs including “A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega,” “One Night Standards,” and “Light On in the Kitchen” have connected with listeners through their honesty and authenticity.

McBryde’s live performances are known for their energy, musicianship, and genuine connection with the audience, making her upcoming Niswonger appearance one of the most anticipated additions to the fall calendar. Tami Neilson will add even more excitement to the evening with her powerful voice and distinctive blend of country, soul, and rockabilly.

“First Bank of Berne is happy to continue supporting the Niswonger Performing Arts Center and another great event for our community,” said Jenna Strayer, Business Banking at First Bank of Berne. “It is exciting to see Van Wert continue to attract entertainment like the Ashley McBryde concert, bringing visitors to our area and creating opportunities for local businesses. Events like this not only bring people together, but also help stimulate economic growth and showcase everything our community has to offer. We are proud to support efforts that make Van Wert and the surrounding communities stronger.”

With two distinctly different musical experiences, these additions offer even more reasons to plan a night at the Niswonger this fall. Whether reliving the soundtrack of a generation with Rumours or experiencing one of country music’s most compelling voices, audiences can look forward to two memorable evenings of live entertainment. 

“We are thrilled to add two outstanding performances to our fall lineup,” said Jarin Hart, Executive Director of Van Wert LIVE. “Rumours will give audiences an unforgettable night filled with the music of Fleetwood Mac, while Ashley McBryde brings the kind of powerful storytelling and authenticity that makes live country music so special. These shows are wonderful examples of the variety and quality of entertainment our community can experience right here in Van Wert.”

Both performances are on sale now exclusively to Van Wert LIVE members. Become a member today to select your perfect seats before tickets go on sale to the public. Becoming a member also helps support the mission of Van Wert LIVE and keeps outstanding entertainment on the Niswonger stage all year long.

To become a member, purchase tickets, or learn more, visit VanWertLIVE.com or contact the Niswonger Box office between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, by calling 419.238.6722, or anytime online at vanwertlive.com.

Review: new VWCT musical a fun show

By DAVE MOSIER/for the VW independent

A music-hating nebbish who gets trapped in musical hell is “the guy” in The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals — the AYA (Adolescent-Young Adult) Theatre production that opened Thursday at Van Wert Civic Theatre.

In this horror-comedy-musical written by Nick and Matt Lang, with music and lyrics by Jeff Blim, Paul Matthews (Sean Carpenter in his fifth show at VWCT) is a white-collar drone quietly living out a boring existence in his hometown of Hatchetfield. His only personality quirk is his intense dislike of music — especially musicals. That’s why he declines an offer by co-worker Bill Woodward (Charles Bennett) to see a production of Mama Mia! at a local theater. Instead, he trots off to make moon eyes at Emma Perkins (Abbie Mengerink), a barista at Beanies coffee shop that he has a crush on. In addition to Bill, Paul shares his humdrum office life with co-workers Charlotte Sweetly (Kim Salisbury) and Ted Spankoffski (Andy Walpole). Unbeknownst to Paul, though, Charlotte, although married to Sam, a police officer, isn’t averse to a little on the side with Ted as well.

Things start spiraling out of control the next day when Bill tells Paul about a meteor hitting the theater the night before and people — including their boss, Mr. Davidson (Evan Joseph) — start singing and dancing like they’re in a musical (because that’s how the mind-controlling aliens communicate).
Paul runs over to Beanies to tell Emma about his suspicion that aliens are turning Hatchetfield residents into one big musical cast and finds the barista, who is also not a big music fan, forced to sing and dance by her boss, Nora (Ella Lamb), as a customer tip-appreciation ploy. In fact, one of the funniest bits in the show is Mengerink’s deadpan face and movements as she, a co-worker, Zoey (Chloe Parker), and her boss do a tip-appreciation song for customers. After finding customers in the shop, as well as her boss and co-worker, already infected by aliens through poisoned coffee, Paul, Emma, Bill, Ted, and Charlotte look for a way to survive the tuneful invasion, but, one by one, fall prey to the insidious musicality of the aliens.

The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals is a fun show with catchy tunes and funny comedy bits. Carpenter is getting good at playing the nerdy, but clueless guy caught up in something he doesn’t quite understand, and he again shows he is good at the everyman role. Bennett has the nerd loser Bill down pat, while Walpole is fun as the unrepentant sleazeball Ted. Joseph is also good as Mr. Davidson, as well as playing Charlotte’s husband, Sam, while Carson Caprella shines as a dotty professor who at first helps Paul, but later joins the aliens willingly.

Several other actors also excel. Emily Gehle does well as a Greenpeace canvasser who has Paul’s number, while Payton Frese gets a slinky number near the end as Bill’s wayward daughter, Alice. My personal favorite actor in this production is Salisbury, whose personality shines through in every scene, making Charlotte a uniquely interesting character — especially when singing and vamping with Joseph on the slinky love duet, “You Tied Up My Heart.”

The sets are clever, lighting and sound perfect for the production, while the gore was goofy, not lose-your-lunch nasty. Director Alyssa Taylor and Music Director Perri Webb do a good job of guiding what could have been an out-of-control production with a steady hand on the tiller. The show gets at least a PG rating because of some naughty bits and spicy language, but is good fun nonetheless.

The show, sponsored by Biggby Coffee, runs through this weekend and the weekend of July 30-August 2. Evening performances start at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday afternoon matinees beginning at 2. Tickets are $18 apiece, with a $2 senior discount on presale tickets only. Tickets may be purchased online at vwct.org or by calling 419.238.9689.

Final summer concert, Block Party

By Quincy Thompson

As another incredible season of Feel Good Fridays comes to a close, Van Wert LIVE is inviting the community to celebrate one final night of music, family fun, and downtown excitement on Friday, July 24, as the Dave Matthews Tribute Band returns to Fountain Park for the final Feel Good Friday concert of the summer.

The evening promises to be one of the biggest celebrations of the season as it also coincides with Historic Main Street Van Wert’s annual Block Party, filling downtown with food trucks, market vendors, kids activities, shopping, and fun from 4-10 p.m.

Fans may remember the Dave Matthews Tribute Band’s appearance in Van Wert last summer, when severe weather forced the concert to end after just 30 minutes. This year, the band is back and ready to deliver the full concert experience audiences have been waiting for.

Known as one of the country’s premier Dave Matthews Band tribute acts, the group faithfully recreates the energy, musicianship, and unforgettable live performances that have made Dave Matthews concerts legendary. From longtime fans to first-time listeners, concertgoers can expect an evening filled with familiar hits, incredible improvisation, and an atmosphere perfect for a summer night in Fountain Park.

“This feels like the perfect way to wrap up another fantastic Feel Good Friday season,” said Jarin Hart, Executive Director of Van Wert LIVE. “We’re thrilled to welcome the band back to give everyone the full performance they deserve, and pairing it with the Main Street Block Party makes this one of the biggest community celebrations of the summer.”

Throughout downtown, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of food trucks, browse more than a dozen market vendors featuring handmade crafts, baked goods, boutiques, and unique gifts, and spend time exploring Van Wert’s local businesses before heading to Fountain Park for the evening concert.

“The Block Party has become one of our signature downtown events because it brings together everything that makes Van Wert special: our local businesses, talented vendors, great entertainment, and, most importantly, our community,” said Mitch Price, Executive Director of Historic Main Street Van Wert. “Every year we strive to make it even better, and this year’s event is shaping up to be our biggest yet. We invite everyone to come downtown, support local businesses, enjoy an incredible evening with family and friends, and help us celebrate everything that makes our downtown a great place to live, work, and visit.”

The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in Fountain Park and is free to attend thanks to the Van Wert County Foundation, who powers all Feel Good Fridays concerts. Concertgoers can also stop by the Van Wert LIVE tent for giveaways throughout the evening, courtesy of swag sponsor Laudick’s Jewelry, and participate in the popular 50/50 drawing.

To see what is coming up at the Niswonger and the full Feel Good Friday lineup, head to vanwertlive.com. Tickets are available through the Niswonger Box Office, open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., by calling 419.238.6722, or anytime online at vanwertlive.com.

Concert moved, drone show postponed

VW independent staff/submitted information

Due to a forcast that includes showers and thunderstorms plus wildfire smoke, Friday night’s Jesse LaBelle concert has been moved indoors to the Niswonger Performing Arts Center to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., giving guests plenty of time to arrive, get settled, and support a great local cause before the music begins. Haven of Hope will be serving hot dogs, coney dogs, and sloppy joes from the Niswonger concession stand, with tables and chairs available in the lobby for those who would like to enjoy dinner before the performance.

Concertgoers will also have the opportunity to cheer on some hometown talent. Van Wert locals J.R. Smith, Vince Barnhart, and Thom McKee will join Jesse LaBelle on stage for what promises to be a memorable evening of live music.

The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. and is free of charge.

In addition, the Peony Festival drone show scheduled to take place after the concert has been postponed due to concerns about weather and wildlife smoke. A new date has not been set.

Cast is set, AYAT show ready to start

Submitted information

The plague has arrived, the choreography is set, and the beat is officially dropping at Van Wert Civic Theatre. Director Alyssa Taylor, Choreographer Emily Gehle and Musical Director Perri Webb are thrilled to announce the official cast for the upcoming production of The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals, sponsored by Biggby Coffee. Paul is an average guy who likes average things—and he absolutely hates musicals. But his world turns into a singing nightmare when a mysterious plague starts transforming his town into a living, dancing horror show. Now, Paul must fight to survive as the world around him breaks into choreographed chaos.

Cast

• Paul Matthews – Sean Carpenter
• Emma Perkins – Abbie Mengerink
• Charlotte Sweetly – Kim Salisbury
• Ted Spankoffski – Andy Walpole
• Bill Woodward – Charles Bennett
• Professor Hidgens – Carson Caprella
• Mr. Ken Davidson / Sam Sweetly – Evan Joseph
• Alice Woodward – Payton Frese
• General John MacNamara – Landon Adams
• Zoey Chambers – Chloe Parker
• Nora – Ella Lamb
• Greenpeace Canvasser – Emily Gehle
• Homeless Guy – Freya Blount
• Deb – Emily Ayers
• Greg – Chloe Parker
• Stu – Emily Gehle
• Soloist Cops – Ella Lamb, Carson Caprella
• Coffee Jerk – Carson Caprella
• Colonel Schaffer – Anna Cassidy
• Melissa – Sophie Berryman
• Ensemble – Colton Easterday, Josh Hohman, Sav Merkel

This AYAT (Adolescent and Young Adult) production has a talented group of local performers ready to take you on a wild journey into a town being taken over by a singing, dancing alien entity. Please be advised that this production contains a content warning for adult language, violence, sexual language, gunshots, drug references, smoking, blood, and gore.

The box office is open now. Tickets are $18 with a $16 for senior presale-only price.  All ticket sales are final. Performances will run July 23, 24, 25, and 26, as well as July 30, 31, and August 1 and 2. All performances take place on the Van Wert Civic Theatre’s main stage at 118 S. Race Street. Secure your seats early at vwct.org or call 419.238.9689.

LaBelle to perform at concert series

By Quincy Thompson

Summer nights in Van Wert continue this Friday, July 17, as Van Wert Live welcomes Nashville recording artist Jesse Labelle to Fountain Park for another exciting Feel Good Friday concert. The free concert begins at 7:30 p.m., followed by the rescheduled Peony Festival drone show at approximately 9:30 p.m., making it a full evening of live entertainment for the entire community.

Known for his energetic live performances and heartfelt songwriting, Jesse Labelle has built a loyal following with his unique blend of country, rock, and Americana. Having shared the stage with nationally recognized artists and performing across North America, Labelle brings a high-energy concert experience perfect for a summer evening in downtown Van Wert.

Following the concert, attendees are encouraged to stay for the Van Wert Peony Festival’s spectacular drone show. Originally postponed due to weather during the festival weekend, the show will now light up the skies over Fountain Park beginning at approximately 9:30 p.m., providing a memorable finale to an already exciting night.

“This Friday is a perfect example of what summer in Van Wert is all about,” said Jarin Hart, Executive Director of Van Wert Live. “You can enjoy a fantastic live concert from an incredible Nashville artist and then experience the Peony Festival’s drone show all in one evening. We love partnering with organizations throughout our community to create nights like this that bring people together.”

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets, arrive early to enjoy downtown Van Wert, and make an evening of it with family and friends. In the concession stand will be Haven of Hope serving food before they have their Box City event starting at 10 p.m. To learn more about Haven of Hope be sure to check out the concession stand during the concert and head to their website. Also serving up treats and drinks will be local food trucks C&J’s Shaved Ice, Glow & Go, The Forge Food Ministry, and more on Jefferson Street during the concert. 

Feel Good Fridays are free to attend and are made possible through the support of the Van Wert County Foundation, whose continued partnership helps bring quality live entertainment to Fountain Park each summer.

Concertgoers can also stop by the Van Wert Live tent for giveaways throughout the evening, courtesy of swag sponsor Laudick’s Jewelry, and participate in the popular 50/50 drawing.

To see what is coming up at the Niswonger and the full Feel Good Friday lineup, head to vanwertlive.com. Tickets are available through the Niswonger Box Office, open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., by calling 419.238.6722, or anytime online at vanwertlive.com.

Auditions to be held for new production

VW independent staff/submitted information

Off Stage Productions Inc. will be holding auditions on Monday and Tuesday, August 10-11 for “As Long as We Both Shall Live” by Sean Grennan. Auditions will be held at Vantage Career Center, 818 N. Franklin St., Van Wert in the commons area starting at 7 p.m. both nights. Enter Door No. 7 in the front of the building.

Show dates will be October 16-18 and 23-25. Directing this show will be Matt Krol. The minimum cast size is three men and two women.

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?

Characters

• Addison: 20’s-30’s, smart, offbeat, positive, very likeable
• Jamie: 30’s, Addison’s rich, attractive fiancé
• Mrs. Wilcox: 50’s, Jamie’s mother, rich, aloof, matriarch of family
• Raul: the wedding planner, any age, Spanish, flashy and flamboyant, doubles as Lieutenant Dobbs, Paul, Dennis
• Rev. Mountain: youngish and gawkish pastor presiding over the ceremony, possibly shy or retiring, afraid of the dark

Scripts are now available for perusal for those interested in auditioning. Message if interested in previewing a script or call or text 419.605.2634. No prior acting experience is required to audition.

The play is produced by special arrangement with Playscripts, Inc.