Hickory – The wagons are loaded and the journey begins this weekend as Hickory Community Theatre opens The Trail To Oregon  in the Firemen’s Kitchen.

Inspired by the classic computer game, this musical comedy from StarKid Productions follows a wildly dysfunctional family heading west — with audience members deciding their names, choices, and even who might perish along the way. Expect quick-witted humor, irreverent twists, and yes… the possibility of dysentery.

The fearless cast includes Justin Thomas as Father, Kendall Comolli as Mother, Sidney Chambliss as Son, Laura Parker as Daughter, Abigail Taylor as Grandpa & Cletus Jones, and Justin Wilson as McDoon & Everyone Else.

Performances run Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., Sundays at 2:30 p.m., and Thursday evening, March 19, in the Firemen’s Kitchen. Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for youth and students. Due to adult language and content, the production is recommended for ages 18 and up. Tickets are available at hickorytheatre.org or by calling 828-328-2283.

The Trail To Oregon is produced by The Estate of Paul Sapp. Hickory Community Theatre is a funded affiliate of Arts Culture Catawba and receives sustaining support from the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Season 77 support is provided by the City of Hickory, A Cleaner World, Shurtape Technologies, Acuña & Acuña Dentistry, and BelleAge.

Education Programs: Disney Dreams & Improv Showdowns

Hickory Community Theatre’s education programs are designed to spark imagination, build confidence, and get students on their feet.

Young performers (grades K-2) can step into the spotlight for Dancing with Disney, April 28 through May 19. In this magical class, students will watch scenes and songs from classic Disney movies, then use some Pixie Dust to learn them and make them their own! Tuition is $100.

For teens ready to think fast and laugh hard, the “Improvegeddon” summer camp delivers high-energy improv training focused on quick thinking, bold choices, and ensemble collaboration. This is a full week camp running June 15-19. This camp is geared for ages 12-14 and tuition is $150.

More classes are in the works. for class descriptions, schedules, and registration details visit hickorytheatre.org/classes.

Hickory Theatre Guild Beer Tasting

The HCT Guild will host its 18th Annual Beer Tasting on Tuesday, March 24 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Hickory Community Theatre. Bobby Bush, ESQ., along with friends from RH Barringer and Olde Hickory Brewery, will share a curated selection of favorite brews. Tickets are $35 and include hors d’oeuvres. Seating is limited and this event traditionally sells out quickly.

Tickets are available online at hickorytheatre.org or by calling 828-328-2283.