The cast of the Depot Theatre’s Million Dollar Quartet had the honor of opening the 176th Essex County Fair with the National Anthem at 5 pm on Wednesday, August 13th.
A torrential summer storm framed the moment, rain pouring down as the cast performed the anthem to open the Fair.
Cast members from left to right: Jane Boxall (Fluke), Brian Sanford (Johnny Cash), Addison Schuh (Dyanne), Jonathan Acorn (Jerry Lee Lewis), and Jonathan Hadley (Sam Phillips).
Westport, N.Y. — The Depot Theatre will close its 2025 Main Stage season with a limited Labor Day weekend engagement of The Roommate by Jen Silverman, fresh from its acclaimed Broadway run. Starring Depot Theatre Co-Artistic Director Beth Glover alongside Leslie Dame, the production will play four performances only, August 28–31, in the theatre’s historic Westport, New York train-station venue.
This funny, slyly suspenseful 90-minute dramedy is an incisive look at identity, unexpected connection, and the messy thrill of starting over. USA Today praised the Broadway production as “criminally funny”…. “a smart, touching two-hander” said The New York Times, while TheaterMania called it “a gem of a play, equal parts laugh-out-loud funny and quietly profound.”
The story follows Sharon, a recently divorced, middle-aged woman in Iowa, who takes in a new roommate, Robyn — a free-spirited newcomer from the city with a mysterious past. What begins as a polite Midwestern arrangement quickly accelerates into a surprising, and occasionally dangerous, bond.
The Depot Theatre production features a powerhouse creative team:
“Some people buy a sports car in midlife. In The Roommate, they make…other choices,” said Director Karen Lewis. “Beth and Leslie capture all the humor, danger, and bad ideas that come with them.”
The Roommate will be performed at the Depot Theatre, the first and oldest Professional Equity Theatre in the Adirondacks, located in a restored 1876 train station in the heart of Westport, NY.
Tickets and Information:
Tickets are available online at DepotTheatre.org or by calling the box office at (518) 962-4449.
The Depot Theatre’s 2025 Season is sponsored by the Rogers-Carroll Family Foundation. The Roommate is sponsored by Emerging Blue.
See this announcement in the news here: BroadwayWorld.
Electrifying Musical Inspired by the Greatest Jam Session in Rock ’n’ Roll History Hits the Depot Theatre Stage August 2025
Westport, NY — The Depot Theatre, a professional Equity theatre located in the Adirondacks, is proud to announce the cast and creative team for its upcoming production of MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET, the exhilarating jukebox musical inspired by the legendary 1956 recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins.
The production, directed and choreographed by Michael Santora, features more than 20 rock ’n’ roll hits performed live on stage—including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Great Balls of Fire,” and “Hound Dog.”
The cast features a powerhouse lineup of actor-musicians:
Director Michael Santora has performed MDQ over 300 times in various productions around the country as Sam Phillips and brings deep insight and passion to the story. His directing credits span Shakespeare to jukebox hits, from Hamlet to Forever Plaid.
The production is stage-managed by Lydya Felix, who returns to the Depot Theatre after working on Spamalot, End Days, and What the Constitution Means to Me.
“Musical Fireworks!” – Associated Press
“Wildly Entertaining” – Hollywood Reporter
“Soul-stirring, good-time classic with a surprising amount of grit and soul!” – Chicago Tribune
🎸 Preview Performances – $25 Tickets
Be part of the excitement of experiencing the show before the critics and the crowds:
Regular performances run August 9 –August 24
Audiences looking for a deeper dive into the creative process are invited to attend the Depot Dialogue, a post-show discussion with cast and crew following the Thursday, August 14 performance.
MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET runs August 7 – 24 at the Depot Theatre, located in a restored 1876 train station in the heart of Westport, NY. Tickets are available at depottheatre.org/tickets or by calling the box office at 518.962.4449.
SPONSORS:
MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET is sponsored by The Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation. The Depot Theatre’s 47th season is sponsored by the Rogers-Carroll Family Foundation.
See this announcement in the news: BroadwayWorld.
Featured on MountainLake PBS July 21
You can experience a dark comedy at the Depot Theatre in Westport, New York, this season, one that asks how far would you go to have it all?
The play RADIANT VERMIN by British playwright Philip Ridley is set around a couple’s dream of the perfect home, but behind the closed doors are sinister secrets of the haves and have nots.
(Link to full article here.)
Featured in the Press Republican on Thursday July 17 – link to full story here.
Robin Caudell, The Press-Republican, Plattsburgh, N.Y.
Thu, July 17, 2025
WESTPORT — “Every Brilliant Thing” director Chan Harris returns to the Depot Theatre this season to interface white-box tech in the fast-paced black comedy “Radiant Vermin,” written by Philip Ridley, an internationally acclaimed “master of the modern myth.”
North Country audiences get a preview performance tonight in Westport of the play, which premiered in 2015 at Tobacco Factory Theatres, Bristol, before transferring to Soho Theatre in London.
Set in contemporary Britain, a young couple, Ollie (Peter Corley) and Jill (Laura Menzie), live in the Red Ocean Estates, when they receive a sticky offer from stranger Miss Dee/Kay (Emily Abruzzi) to own their dream home and leave public housing forever.
Ollie and Jill are lower-middle class, educated, not too well-connected and try too hard to be fashionable.
“It was a new play to me, but I really liked it when I first read it,” Harris said. “He’s very British. Not in a bad way, but in a really good way. The way that the Brits generally … this is kind of a gross overgeneralization, even when they speak they sound polite typically whether they are or not. Their general sense of manners is often more oppressive than the way we use manners if that makes sense. They don’t ever want to step over the lines of propriety in general. That’s not true for everyone in Britain, of course, but the general feel of the country is a lightness kind of guides a lot of things. Doing the right thing in a sense.
“If this story was to take place in America, it would be a different story than it is. There are some very heavy conditions that they don’t realize when they say yes to the house. There are some very conditions attached, but they have to figure out how to make it work.”
Link to full story on the Press Republican here as well as on Yahoo! Entertainment here.
As featured on North Country Public Radio (Air date July 14, 2025)
“The artistic producers at the Depot Theatre in Westport are pretty curious what you’ll think of the new show opening this weekend.
“Radiant Vermin” is a brilliantly written dark comedy satire about the lengths you go to get what you want, according to Beth Glover and Karen Lewis.
“It’s outrageous. It’s completely delicious. And, in this wonderful world of rampant consumerism, I think it’s going to speak to people,” said Lewis, ironically.
Lewis and Glover told Northern Light co-host Monica Sandreczki it’s a perfect fit for their mainstage season.”
Link to full article & interivew here.
Depot Theatre Announces Cast for RADIANT VERMIN
Philip Ridley’s Savage Satire on Real Estate, Morality, and the Price of Desire
(As seen on BroadwayWorld)
Westport, NY (July 9, 2025) — The Depot Theatre, a Professional Equity company, presents the biting and fastpaced black comedy RADIANT VERMIN, written by internationally acclaimed “master of modern myth” Philip Ridley. The play premiered in 2015 at Tobacco Factory Theatres, Bristol, before transferring to Soho Theatre in London.
When a young couple is offered an ideal house by a mysterious stranger, it prompts the chilling question: How far would any of us go to get our dream home? What follows is a provocative, pitch-black satire that skewers our fantasies about having it all.
Directed by Chan Harris, who directed EVERY BRILLIANT THING at the Depot Theatre last season, this cutting-edge, thought-provoking comedy teeters on the brink of mayhem while shining a light on the human condition, the haves and have-nots, and the inequities of life.
“…RADIANT VERMIN is a blithely told fable for the age of unaffordable housing… nasty and energetic fun.” —BenBrantley, The New York Times (Off-Broadway)
“A darkly funny morality play… extraordinary.” —The Guardian
“RADIANT VERMIN is dark, devastating, and true to our times.” —Jim Catapano, ArtsIndependent (2024)
THE CAST:
Featuring the return of a beloved Depot Theatre alum and two actors making their highly anticipated debut on our stage:
Peter Corley (Ollie) returns to the Depot Theatre after last year’s ANALOG & VINYL. Recently Peter has appeared in two Martin McDonagh plays, as Katurian in THE PILLOWMAN and Ray in BEAUTY QUEEN OF LEENANE, as well as George Bailey in IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, Billy in Stoppard’s THE REAL THING, and Fred/Young Scrooge in A CHRISTMAS CAROL in Northwest NJ. Peter is a graduate of the musical theatre program at New York’s Circle in the Square, where he played Konstantin in THE SEAGULL and Cooper in ISLAND SONG.
Laura Menzie (Jill)’s previous credits include TWELFTH NIGHT and MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING with Saratoga Shakespeare Company, DOLLS HOUSE PART 2 and DOUBT with Franklin Stage Company, WE ARE PROUD TO PRESENT A PRESENTATION… at Stage’s Rep, RICHARD III at Houston Shakespeare Festival and HAMLET and TARTUFFE with Titan Theatre Company in NYC. Laura has also worked locally with Adirondack Stage Rats & Pendragon Theatre. She has her MFA from the University of Houston and currently teaches acting and voice and speech at Skidmore College. She is excited to be making her Depot Theatre debut.
Emily Abruzzi (Miss Dee / Kay) is delighted to be making her Depot Theatre debut! Originally from Pennsylvania, Emily toured with arts-in-education programs for 10 years, including five years as company member of Mock Turtle Marionette Theatre. Emily has also toured in Taiwan with Enchantment Theatre Company (puppetry). As a dancer, she performed at Philadelphia Fringe Festival and DUMBO dance festival in NYC. More rently Emily has acted in local shows including WIT with Artistry Community Theatre, MRS. FARNSWORTH with Book & Blanket, and ANTIGONE with Pendragon Theatre. She holds a BA in Theatre and Dance and an MS in Occupational Therapy and works in early childhood services throughout Essex County.
THE DIRECTOR:
Chan Harris grew up in the part of East Texas where it always smells like something’s burning. After graduating from The Juilliard School, he worked in professional theatre in New York, Regional Theatre, National Tours, International Tours. Other directing projects: New York: MISS JULIE (Pearl Theatre Company), OPERA FOR DUMMIES (Westbeth). National Tour: FOREVER PLAID. Regional Theatre: A COMEDY OF TENORS, ALWAYS…PATSY CLINE, ALTAR BOYZ, CHURCH BASEMENT LADIES (1, 2, 4 AND 5), THE BIKINIS, THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES, SOCIAL SECURITY, ALONE TOGETHER, LET’S MURDER MARSHA, THE PAJAMA GAME, BEAUTY & THE BEAST, FULLY COMMITTED, HARPS & HARMONICAS (world premiere), 5/31/89: THE FLOOD (world premiere), CRAZY FOR YOU, THE KING AND I, HONKY-TONK ANGELS, 42ND STREET, MARVELOUS WONDERETTES, PUMP BOYS & DINETTES, CINDERELLA, to name a few.
Review Contributed by Shir Filler. Ms. Filler is a Professor of English and the Humanities Department Chair at North Country Community College. Before that, she was the Editor of the Lake Placid News. Shir Filler contributed this review at the request of The Depot Theatre.
FIRST DATE, directed by Beth Glover at the Depot Theatre in Westport, is a hilarious and imaginative take on the scenario of, you guessed it, a first date. Over the course of one evening, Casey and Aaron alternately interest and annoy each other with fun repartee, but the best part is that the audience gets to experience the angst each one suffers from the warring voices in their own heads: He’s too boring. She’s not Jewish. What if he’s the one? Why can’t I just get back with my ex? What if I’ll never find the one? Does ordering a salad mean I’m not a real man? Read more
FIRST DATE runs June 26-July 13 at the Depot Theatre.
Depot Theatre’s Main Stage Season Premieres with the Broadway Hit FIRST DATE
Westport, NY (June 16, 2025) The Depot Theatre’s 47th Main Stage season kicks off with a hilarious, high-energy match made in musical theatre heaven: FIRST DATE, the offbeat Broadway hit that proves sometimes love shows up when you least expect it. FIRST DATE premiered on Broadway in 2013 and has since played to sold-out houses across the country.
Book by Austin Winsberg
Music and Lyrics by Alan Zachary & Michael Weiner
Directed and choreographed by Beth Glover from the Depot Theatre’s Artistic Production Management Team, with music direction by Aaron Jodoin, FIRST DATE runs June 26–July 13 and features a dynamic cast of returning Depot Theatre alums and exciting new faces.
Since its Broadway debut, FIRST DATE has played to sold-out houses nationwide and drawn critical acclaim:
“A fast-paced, 90-minute charmer that’s equal parts heart and hilarity.”
— Variety
“A winning crowd-pleaser delivered with comic verve and charm.”
— The Hollywood Reporter
“A slick, crowd-pleasing comedy with Broadway polish and off-Broadway bite.”
— TheaterMania
THE CAST:
Aaron Penzel (Aaron) makes his Depot Theatre debut as the buttoned-up blind date who finds himself wildly unprepared for what the night has in store.
Tiara Whaley (Casey) returns to the Theatre as the edgy, quick-witted serial dater who’s seen it all—until now.
Amy Fitts (Woman #1) brings her signature charm and comedic timing back to the Depot Theatre, fresh off stages from NYC to Tokyo (and Riverdale High School, where she now teaches drama).
Khalid Rivera (Man #1), a Broadway and TV veteran, adds flair to every scene, whether playing a disapproving dad, a fabulous ex, or the voice inside your head.
Vincent DiGeronimo (Man #2) returns to Westport after his crowd-pleasing turn as Uncle Fester in The Addams Family, now tackling a series of scene-stealing characters.
The music pulses live from the pit thanks to an all-star band featuring Jane Boxall (drums), Andy Tompkins (guitar), and Felix Haskins (bass). The production is stage managed by Lydya Felix.
“FIRST DATE is a zany, heartfelt ride through every awkward, unexpected, and potentially romantic twist a blind date can throw at you,” says Glover. “It’s fast-paced, sharply written, and performed by an extraordinary ensemble who bring these wonderfully human characters to life.”
Audiences looking for a deeper dive into the creative process are invited to attend the Depot Dialogue, a post-show discussion with cast and crew following the Thursday, July 3 performance.
ABOUT THE SHOW:
When tightly wound Aaron is set up with serial-dater Casey, a casual drink at a busy New York restaurant turns into a riotous exploration of modern dating, as every ex, friend, and inner voice crashes the party. With clever songs and rapid-fire banter, FIRST DATE is a celebration of risk, connection, and the courage it takes to put your heart on the line.
TICKETS & INFO:
Preview Performances – $25 Tickets
Be part of the behind-the-scenes magic and experience the show before the critics and the crowds:
Regular performances run June 28–July 13.
FIRST DATE runs June 26–July 13 at the Depot Theatre, located in a restored 1876 train station in the heart of Westport, NY. Tickets are available at depottheatre.org or by calling the box office at 518.962.4449.
SPONSORS:
FIRST DATE is sponsored by Chazy Westport Communications. The Depot Theatre’s 47th season is sponsored by the Rogers-Carroll Family Foundation.
As seen on BroadwayWorld
THE DROWSY CHAPERONE Comes to the Depot Theatre Academy
Performances will take place June 12-14 and will open the Main Stage season at the historic Depot Theatre in Westport, New York.
The Depot Theatre Academy will present the first of its 2025 summer youth productions: THE DROWSY CHAPERONE. This Tony Award-winning musical comedy will be brought to life by a cast of talented local youth performers under the guidance of seasoned theatre professionals.
With a script that cleverly blends nostalgia with satire, THE DROWSY CHAPERONE offers audiences a joyous, witty escape into a 1920s musical within a musical, complete with mistaken identities, dream sequences, and toe-tapping numbers. The Academy’s production promises all the sparkle and spirit of the original, while offering a fresh, youthful take that reflects the creativity and dedication of its student ensemble.
The program will be led by a team of experienced professional teaching artists. It will be directed by Gigi Mason, Depot Theatre’s Director of Outreach & Education, with live musical direction and accompaniment provided by music and drama educator Kim Weems. Choreography is by co-director Jackie Robertin. The production has also received assistance from theatre educator and actor Amy Fitts, the Depot Theatre’s Artistic Production Management Team, Beth Glover & Karen Lewis, and other local and visiting professional artists.
“THE DROWSY CHAPERONE gives our students a chance to tap into big comedy, big characters, and big heart,” said Gigi Mason. “But beyond the laughs, what’s most powerful is watching these young artists find their voices, support one another, and light up the stage with something they’ve built together. That kind of experience stays with them long after the final bow.”
Founded to provide authentic theatrical training to area youth, the Depot Theatre Academy has grown into one of the region’s most beloved educational programs. Known for sold-out productions and deeply invested students, the Academy emphasizes collaboration, discipline, and creativity in a welcoming, professional setting.
Auditions for THE DROWSY CHAPERONE were held in March; there is no cost to participants.
Performances of THE DROWSY CHAPERONE will take place at the Depot Theatre, the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. The theatre is located in a historic 1876 train station in Westport, NY. A cultural anchor in the Adirondacks for over four decades, the Depot is committed to presenting live theatre, fostering local talent, and providing arts education through its Academy program.
The cast of The Drowsy Chaperone includes:
Cooper Halloran, Jocelyn Bessette, Kaden Dwyer, Keiran Shult, Tristan Shult, Lee Fay, Hanna Bailey, Ayden Christensen, Madeline Young, Parker Scanio, Destini Bresette, Lindsay Haner, Araya Pierre Louis, Olive Stewart, Kalyn Kivlehan, Evalee Hamilton, Lillian Baker, Felix Haskins, Emma Drowlette.
The Depot Theatre Academy is underwritten by The Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation.
The Academy senior program for experienced student artists, including performances of THE DROWSY CHAPERONE, is sponsored by The Mill.
Mission: The Depot Theatre is to entertain, enrich, and educate through professional theatrical arts and related programs based in a historic train station.
Vision: The Depot Theatre will have a robust, regional, and year-round presence by creating the highest of quality programs, building strong partnerships, and enhancing community engagement while promoting diversity in all that we do.
Get the latest Depot Theatre News!
The Depot Theatre receives funding from the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
With special thanks to the following for their support of the Depot’s ongoing strategic objectives: Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trust, Cloudsplitter Foundation, J.M. McDonald Foundation, Inc., Glenn and Carol Pearsall Adirondack Foundation, Charles R. Wood Foundation, Adirondack Foundation, Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation, Rogers Carroll Family Foundation, Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation.
