Hickory – Summer may be heating up outside, but the real action is happening inside Hickory Community Theatre. From a one-night-only concert with a storytelling legend, to high-energy Hairspray auditions, and a ghostly good time with Beetlejuice Jr., the stage is bursting with excitement—and there’s something for everyone.
Michael Reno Harrell Returns for One Night Only – July 12
Beloved singer, songwriter, and storyteller Michael Reno Harrell returns to HCT’s Firemen’s Kitchen for what has become a cherished annual tradition. For the past 15 years, his blend of homespun stories and heartfelt songs has filled the Kitchen with laughter, warmth, and unforgettable memories.
This year’s concert, happening Saturday, July 12 at 7:30pm, features an all-new show and a special guest: acoustic guitarist and vocalist Eli Laughrun.
“I’ve known Eli since he was twelve,” says Harrell. “He’s one of the most outstanding acoustic guitarists I’ve had the pleasure to work with. I haven’t had this much fun in years.”
Tickets are just $20, and seating is limited. Reserve yours now by calling 828-328-2283, or visit https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=277713. This show is suitable for all ages.
Auditions for Hairspray – July 14 & 15
Ready to step into the spotlight? Auditions for the toe-tapping, big-hearted musical Hairspray are happening Monday and Tuesday, July 14 & 15 at 6:30pm, with possible callbacks on July 16.
Set in 1962 Baltimore, Hairspray follows lovable teen Tracy Turnblad as she dances her way from outsider to TV star—and uses her newfound fame to stand up for what’s right. It’s a celebration of inclusion, courage, and the power of a great beat.
Auditioners should prepare 32 bars of a song from the show or in a similar style. Wear clothes you can move in—there’s a dance portion too! HCT welcomes performers of all races, ethnicities, identities, body types, and abilities. Theatre is for everyone.
Performances run September 5–20, and cast members must be available for every show. Details are available on the HCT Facebook page (https://tinyurl.com/2fe4ruec) or by calling 828-327-3855.
Hairspray is produced by MoreOn Productions, and is suitable for ages 10 and up.
Now on Sale: Season 77 Flex Passes
HCT’s 77th season is packed with powerful plays, magical musicals, and crowd-pleasing comedy. Flex passes let you enjoy it all—on your schedule.
In the Jeffers Theatre, audiences can look forward to the high-energy musical Hairspray, the heartwarming holiday favorite Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, the quirky sci-fi comedy Be More Chill, the enchanting fairy tale mashup Into the Woods, the chilling ghost story The Woman in Black, and the hard-hitting satire The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity, which explores identity and spectacle in the world of professional wrestling.
Downstairs in the Firemen’s Kitchen, the season heats up with three provocative and wildly entertaining productions: the audience-steered musical adventure The Trail to Oregon; Martin McDonagh’s razor-sharp dark comedy Hangmen, which delves into justice and ego in 1960s England; and MacBitches, a contemporary play set in a college theatre department, where ambition, jealousy, and power dynamics simmer just beneath the surface.
Passes are $50 for three admissions, $60 for four, or $70 for five. Seniors (age 60 and up) can enjoy eight admissions for just $100. There’s no limit on how many you can purchase—treat yourself or share the experience with friends.
Call 828-327-3855 to get yours or visit https://hickorytheatre.ludus.com/passes.php.
Coming Soon: Beetlejuice Jr. – July 26 & 27
It’s showtime! HCT and Hickory Ballet & Performing Arts team up for Beetlejuice Jr., a PG-rated musical that’s as funny as it is heartfelt. Based on the hit Broadway show and cult-classic film, this kid-friendly adaptation brings the ghost-with-the-most to life in a way young audiences will love.
This camp production features rising stars from HCT’s summer musical theatre program. Performances are July 26 & 27 at 1:30pm and 4:00pm.
Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for students and youth (18 and under).
For tickets, call 828-328-2283 or click https://tinyurl.com/mw289xzy.
At its heart, Beetlejuice Jr. is a ghost story—and is best suited for ages 10 and up.
HCT is a Funded Affiliate of Arts Culture Catawba. The theatre also receives sustaining support from the North Carolina Arts Council, part of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
PHOTO: Singer/songwriter/storyteller Michael Reno Harrell will be performing this Saturday, July 12 at 7:30pm in the Firemen’s Kitchen at the Hickory Community Theatre.
