Theater revival in Waunakee spurred by missed roles and pandemic circumstances
## Affordable Community Theater Brings Live Performances Back to Waunakee
After more than two decades without a community theater, Waunakee, Wisconsin, is set to welcome back live performances with the establishment of Groundlings Theater. Founded in 2024 by Hannah Nies, the company has made its mark on the local arts scene by focusing on accessibility, affordability, and community engagement.
### Affordable Tickets for All
Groundlings Theater's mission is to make quality live theater accessible to everyone in the community. Tickets for upcoming productions, such as the upcoming production of _The Importance of Being Earnest_, are priced at an affordable $5, available for purchase either online or at the door.
### A Theater Rooted in the Community
The name Groundlings Theater harks back to the cheapest section of seating in Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, symbolizing the company's commitment to providing affordable art for the community. Hannah Nies, the founder, emphasizes that Groundlings Theater is not "rich and powerful" but consistently present within the community.
### Michelle Butcher's Journey with Groundlings Theater
Michelle Butcher, a former high school theater enthusiast, was drawn to Groundlings Theater by its affordability. Despite not landing a role initially, she remained involved with the theater as stage manager, assisting with props, sound cues, and cast coordination during rehearsals.
### Upcoming Production of _The Importance of Being Earnest_
The upcoming production of Groundlings Theater, _The Importance of Being Earnest_, will take place at Peace Lutheran Church from July 11 to July 13. The play, a classic comedy by Oscar Wilde, promises to be a captivating experience for audiences of all ages.
### More Than Just a Theater
Groundlings Theater offers more than just live performances. The company supports local community causes and hosts additional attractions such as muffins, a silent auction, and other community events.
### Get Involved with Groundlings Theater
For those interested in supporting or getting involved with Groundlings Theater, there are several ways to do so:
- **Attend Performances:** Book your tickets early to enjoy quality theater at affordable prices. - **Volunteer:** Groundlings Theater welcomes community members to join as actors, technicians, or administrative helpers. - **Donate:** Support the theater's mission through donations or sponsorships to help maintain affordable pricing and fund future productions.
Groundlings Theater's upcoming production of _The Importance of Being Earnest_ is set to be a memorable event in the community's cultural calendar. Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience affordable, high-quality live theater in Waunakee.
Among the various offerings by Groundlings Theater, they advocate sustainable living through their commitment to affordability and community engagement. Their upcoming home-and-garden initiative may include recycling props from plays for reuse in local gardening projects, promoting a lifestyle of thrift and resourcefulness.
In alignment with their approachable image, Hannah Nies, the founder of Groundlings Theater, has pledged to sustain its affordable pricing by integrating home-and-garden practices into the theater's operations. This includes the possibility of growing produces for refreshments during intermissions, further encapsulating the ideals of sustainable-living in their community-centric organization.
