‘Trumpet in the Land’ outdoor drama returns this summer

In a scene from Paul Green’s “Trumpet in the Land,” members of the American Militia, under the direction of Colonel David Williamson, escape the growing violence of the Revolutionary War to enjoy a night of song and dance.

NEW PHILADELPHA — “Trumpet in the Land,” Ohio’s first outdoor drama and official state play, once again brings the state’s captivating frontier history to life beginning June 24 at the picturesque Schoenbrunn Amphitheatre in New Philadelphia. To celebrate opening night, on July 24 a special “half off” ticket price will apply, making all adult, senior or student tickets just $10 and all tickets for children 12 and only $5. This discount cannot be combined with any other offers.

Cast rehearsals are held for Trumpet in the Land performances.

Now in its 53rd season, this epic production retells the compelling story of Ohio’s first settlement, Schoenbrunn, during the tumultuous Revolutionary War era. Pulitzer prize-winning playwright Paul Green’s script combines comedy, drama, song, dance and romance into an action-packed evening of family entertainment that engulfs patrons as history unfolds under the stars.

“Trumpet’s message of peace, told in our unforgettable setting, is especially important this year as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of Schoenbrunn Village,” said Margaret Bonamico, general manager for Trumpet in the Land. “In addition to Trumpet in the Land, we also have several other great events planned at our theatre this summer, including the fun-filled musical Grease, the children’s classic, Winnie the Pooh and a hilarious comedy called Dinner with the Boys that will make you laugh and be hungry at the same time.”

Trumpet in the Land performance dates are June 24, 25, July 1, 2, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 15, 16, 18, 19, 23, 26, 29, Aug. 1, 2, 6, 8, 9, 12, 15, 16, 19 and 20, with an 8:30 p.m. showtime.

“Dinner with the Boys” will be performed in the smaller pavilion theatre venue June 30, and July 7 and 14 with a 7 p.m. showtime. Written by Dan Lauria, best known for his role as the father in “The Wonder Years,” this dark comedy features two wise guys, played by Joe Bonamico and Bart Herman, who find themselves at odds with the “Family,” and try to use their cooking skills to escape danger. Filled with belly laughs, killer plot twists and plenty of garlic, “Dinner with the Boys” will have you wondering if this will be their last meal! A special Italian dinner theatre option, available with advanced notice and payment, can help audience members get in the mood for this comedy caper. Details are available by calling the box office at 330-339-1132.

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Next up is the timeless musical classic “Grease,” with book, music and lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. Head greaser Danny Zuko and good girl Sandy Dumbrowski try to relive their “Summer Nights” as the rest of the gang sings and dances its way through such classic tunes as “Greased Lightning,” “Hand Jive,” “Magic Changes,” “Mooning” and “We Go Together.” Performance dates at the amphitheatre are July 22, 30, Aug. 5 and 13 at 8:30 p.m.

For children and all those young at heart, “Winnie-the-Pooh” will be performed July 28 and Aug. 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the amphitheatre. Christopher Robin’s “bear of very little brain” finds himself involved with all sorts of frantic and fun adventures, joined along the way by his friends Eeyore, Piglet and Rabbit.

On July 25th, the Trumpet Singers will perform holiday classic carols and tunes on the pavilion stage with their special “Christmas in July” performance; and finally, on Aug. 11, Trumpet in the Land performers will present “Give My Regards to Broadway,”, a one-night only homage to unforgettable Broadway showtunes. Both of these events begin at 7 p.m. in the pavilion.

Event tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors 60 and over or students 13-17, and $10 for children 12 and under. “Mondays are for Children” and “Half-Off Tuesday” promotions are available throughout the summer. Additional information is available at www.trumpetintheland.com

For ticket information call the Trumpet in the Land box office at 330-339-1132.

Trumpet in the Land performances are held at the Schoenbrunn Amphitheatre.

This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: ‘Trumpet in the Land’ outdoor drama returns this summer