Discover St. Michael's Playhouse: Shows, Tickets & More!

Dr. Antwon Grant 23 May 2025

Is the curtain finally rising on a new era for Saint Michael's Playhouse? After a challenging period, the playhouse, a cornerstone of Vermont's cultural landscape, is poised to make a triumphant return, promising a season filled with captivating performances and renewed community spirit.

The echoes of laughter and applause are once again filling the air, a testament to the resilience of the performing arts. The Saint Michael's Playhouse, nestled in Colchester, Vermont, is more than just a theater; it's a vibrant hub that has nurtured generations of artists and provided countless hours of entertainment for residents and visitors alike. After a hiatus forced by the global pandemic, and the subsequent transition following the retirement of long-time producing artistic director Chuck Tobin in 2023, the playhouse is back, ready to reclaim its place as a premier destination for live theater.

The Saint Michael's Playhouse, once an auxiliary enterprise of Saint Michael's College, faced significant hurdles. Organizers initially hoped to relaunch the playhouse as an independent nonprofit company. This ambitious undertaking required substantial financial backing, with a reported need of approximately $500,000 to facilitate the transition and ensure a successful reopening.

Name	Saint Michael's Playhouse
Location	1 Winooski Park, Colchester, VT
Type	Professional Actor's Equity Theater
Seating Capacity	Approximately 16,000 theatergoers per season
History	Operated for 72 summers
Current Status	Operational
Key Feature	Housed in one of the best theater facilities in Vermont
Past Notable Events	Showcased "Unnecessary Farce" running from July 9 to July 14, 2012
Upcoming Events	Performances begin on July 17, with matinee performances on July 20 and 27 at 2 p.m.
Notable Alumni	Some students build their theater resumes through internships at the Saint Michael's Playhouse
Reference	Saint Michael's Playhouse Official Website

The upcoming season promises to be a feast for the senses, with the playhouse attracting approximately 16,000 theatergoers each season to experience live professional theater. Audiences can anticipate a diverse lineup of productions, meticulously produced, rehearsed, and performed within the very heart of the Green Mountain State. The commitment to quality and artistic excellence remains unwavering, ensuring that the Saint Michael's Playhouse continues to be a beacon for the arts.

For those unfamiliar, the Saint Michael's Playhouse has a rich history, consistently delivering engaging performances. The playhouse's legacy is intertwined with the community, offering a platform for both established and emerging talents. The last playhouse show's director is the longtime playhouse actor and director Richard Warner. It's a place where the magic of live theater comes alive, fostering a sense of connection and shared experience.

One of the hallmarks of the Saint Michael's Playhouse is its commitment to nurturing young talent. The playhouse has long recognized the importance of mentorship and providing opportunities for emerging artists. Some students build their theater resumes through internships, gaining invaluable experience working alongside seasoned professionals. The Saint Michael's invites young performing artists to come together with their talented staff for a summer filled with theatrical creativity and lifelong friends. They offer a popular tech program as well.

The playhouse is also known for fostering creative collaborations. Sarah Carleton is set to pair with playhouse favorite Brenda Pitnom, who, since their "Arsenic and Old Lace" collaboration in 2014, have become a regular "Bob Hope/Bing Crosby type duo," as described by Chuck Tobin. It's fun for the audience to see them on stage together again, their chemistry and rapport adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the performances.

In the past, the playhouse offered summer subscriptions, a tradition cherished by many. When visitors moved to the Burlington area, they looked forward to the summer subscription (always 4 shows put on every two weeks beginning mid-June running to mid-August) each year. This provided a reliable source of entertainment and a sense of community, something the playhouse undoubtedly hopes to re-establish.

The location itself enhances the theatrical experience. The theater boasts a proscenium stage complete with hydraulic lift, trap room, substantial wing and fly space. This allows for dynamic and innovative staging, enhancing the overall impact of the productions. For those who have visited the area, arriving early and ordering delicious entrees and snacks to enjoy in a Parisian courtyard adds to the allure.

The return of the Saint Michael's Playhouse is a significant event, a testament to the enduring appeal of live theater and the dedication of those who work tirelessly to bring it to life. The producing artistic director Chuck Tobin '80 feels a heightened sense of perseverance and joyful anticipation. Their resilience, coupled with the support of the community, ensures that the Saint Michael's Playhouse will continue to be a vital cultural institution for years to come.

Looking back, "Unnecessary Farce" ran at Saint Michael's Playhouse in Colchester through July 14, 2012. Resident theatre critic Connie Meng was at the opening night and has this review. This is a reminder of the rich history that the Saint Michael's Playhouse possesses, a testament to the caliber of the productions that have graced its stage. Performances begin on July 17 at St. Michael's, with matinee performances on July 20 and 27 at 2 p.m.

The concession stand and bar are open until 1/2 hour after the start of the last movie of the night. Additionally, for moviegoers, St. Michael Cinema 15, located just off Highway 94, is one of the few remaining locally owned and operated cinemas in Minnesota, a reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses and the arts. View showtimes for movies playing at St. Michael, Minnesota (MN 55376) with links to movie information (plot summary, reviews, actors, actresses, etc.) and more information about the theater.

The theater is an intimate but broad house which seats 360. Mike's theatre program makes its home in the McCarthy Arts Center, which houses a theatre, a recital hall, an art gallery, rehearsal spaces, classrooms, and faculty offices. Begin your escape the moment you venture through the front doors and are immediately transformed to the streets of Paris.

The legacy of the Saint Michael's Playhouse is one built on dedication, passion, and a profound love for the performing arts. As it embarks on this new chapter, it carries with it the hopes and dreams of a community that has long cherished its contributions. With its commitment to artistic excellence and its dedication to fostering talent, the Saint Michael's Playhouse is poised to thrive, bringing joy, inspiration, and unforgettable moments to audiences for many years to come.