River Falls, Wisconsin – As winter’s grip tightens, the River Falls Community Theatre (RFCT) is offering a welcome dose of levity with its annual one-act comedy show. Performances are scheduled for February 20th and 21st at 7 p.m. At Juniors Restaurant and Tap House, promising an evening of diverse humor and heartfelt moments for local theatergoers. The event aims to provide not only entertainment but also a boost to the local economy during what director Malissa Jones describes as a period of “heaviness” in the community and surrounding areas.
The showcase will feature six distinct short plays, each offering a unique comedic perspective. The lineup includes “Divorce Court,” directed by Jones herself, which presents a couple resolving their differences through a rather unconventional method – a fistfight. Andrew Martineau’s “Spin Cycle” offers a “lovely slice of life” story centered around a budding connection forged during a mundane laundry day. David Ives appears twice on the bill, with “Lives of the Saints,” directed by Barrie Mayer, exploring themes of life, death and humor through the lens of two women preparing a funeral breakfast, and “St. Francis Talks to the Birds,” a surreal comedy featuring a resurrected saint in conversation with vultures. Rounding out the selection are “Post-Its” by Paul Dooley and Winnie Holzman, directed by Tyler Haines, tracing a marriage through the notes left between a couple, and “The Wedding Story” by Julianne Homokay, directed by Shelby Tylicki, which playfully deconstructs the fairytale ideal of marriage.
A Collaborative Spirit
The choice of Juniors Restaurant & Tap House as the venue is more than just logistical. Jones emphasized the “very nice symbiotic relationship” between the theater and the restaurant, highlighting the importance of supporting local businesses and fostering a sense of community. This collaboration allows patrons to enjoy a meal and drinks while experiencing live theater, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. The RFCT’s commitment to community extends beyond its performances, as evidenced by its ongoing auditions for its spring 2026 play, “The Hallelujah Girls.” Auditions are being held on February 19th and 20th from 6 p.m. To 8 p.m. At the Unitarian Universalist Society of River Falls, located at N8010 Highway 65.
Finding Joy in Challenging Times
For the actors involved, the production has been a source of personal solace and connection. Patrice Veit, who plays Flo in “Lives of the Saints,” shared that the show has brought her “joy in a time it’s been very difficult,” underscoring the therapeutic power of the arts. Kat Cloutier, portraying Dee Parted in “Divorce Court,” echoed this sentiment, stating, “If I build somebody laugh, if I make one person laugh, then I did my job.” She added, “If you can put those [sad times] in a box and forget about them, and have two hours, two and a half hours, of fun laughter… That’s all the difference it makes.”
A Season of Growth for RFCT
The one-act comedy show is just one part of a vibrant season for the River Falls Community Theatre. The organization is actively seeking contributions to support its ongoing work and offers opportunities for community involvement through auditions and volunteer roles. The RFCT website details past productions and provides information on how to get involved. The upcoming spring production, “The Hallelujah Girls,” promises more laughter and entertainment, continuing the theater’s tradition of bringing quality performances to the River Falls area. Duane Werner will provide live music on February 20th before the plays start, adding to the evening’s festive atmosphere.
Tickets for the one-act comedy show do not include food and drink, encouraging attendees to support Juniors Restaurant & Tap House directly. The River Falls Community Theatre’s dedication to providing accessible and engaging entertainment, coupled with its commitment to fostering community connections, makes this event a highlight of the local arts calendar.
The River Falls Community Theatre will next hold auditions for “The Hallelujah Girls” on February 19th and 20th. Further details about the spring production, including performance dates (May 1-3 at Junior’s Restaurant & Tap House), are available on the RFCT website.
What are your thoughts on the importance of community theater? Share your experiences and let us know if you plan to attend the show!
