Ellwood City Gets Creative
Ellwood City and its surrounding areas are undoubtedly beautiful areas to visit – new shops, new events, new people, and of course the older charm that has created our foundation – it makes us proud to be from such a welcoming area. Signs By Sam had the privilege of helping out a local group that we, along with countless others, consider another local gem.
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If you have ever driven through the outskirts of Ellwood City, you may have driven past an iconic red barn with a sign reading Red Barn Theatre. Tucked among the beautiful rolling hills of Fombell, PA, this local barn-turned-stage has been providing our town with years of laughs, suspense, and memories for people of all ages.
Opening Act
In early March of 1955, an interest meeting was held in Ellwood City in hopes of drawing people together to discuss possibilities of organizing a local theater group. Over fifty people had attended the meeting, which was led by Ellwood City’s Mike Raykovics. Under his direction as appointed chairman and the eagerness of local residents passionate about the arts, plans were soon underway for future productions in the area.
Over the course of a few months, a temporary board was formed, scripts had been reviewed, and auditions had begun. Finding a venue, however, seemed to be one of the last missing puzzle pieces. They soon found their stage with the generous help of local Franklin Township resident, Theodore TerLinden, who offered use of his barn, located in the open countryside. The Ellwood City Players, as the organization would be called, had found their new home.
Almost 4 months exactly from the first interest meeting, on July 8, 1955, “John Loves Mary” made its debut as the first show by the newly-formed group. With an audience that resulted in nearly 200 people, the comedy performance was highly praised and quickly evolved into what would be a beloved summer program for years to come, for both adults and children alike.
Cast photos for Bonnie and Clyde (top), Hilda’s Yard (bottom left), and Drinking Habits (bottom right). Other past shows include the musical, Jesus Christ Superstar, Beer for Breakfast, Shipwrecked!, Up and Down Detective Agency, and Not Now, Darling.
After becoming established, the group went on to obtain a non-profit charter status and became known as The Red Barn Players of Ellwood City, just over a year following this first show. Due to the organization’s success from the get-go, the Players were able to begin leasing the property for future use. Over five decades of performances later, they would go on to purchase the 8.9 acre property in 2010, a couple years after Mr. TerLinden had passed away, and remain in the same place where it all began.
Behind the Scenes
The actual theater itself, much like the organization, has greatly evolved over the years; cast members not only worked tirelessly on scripts, but they worked equally as hard at transforming the physical space. Everything from clearing the barn to building a stage, they were dedicated to their vision. Sheep even remained in the lower level of the barn for the first couple of years. Since then, construction had also expanded to include a new building for a concession & kitchen area and modern restrooms for guests.
The Red Barn Theatre continued its expansion in 2016 with a new building on the property to enhance attendees’ theater experience. Included are members of the Board of Directors and Advisory Board.
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Since its inception, attendees have thoroughly enjoyed a night out to Red Barn. Tom Bickert, member of the Board of Directors and 2011-2017 group President, describes the excitement that surrounds the Summer shows, which occurs during the months of June, July, August, and September. A memorable experience for him so far has been
“the number of people who can’t wait to buy season tickets even before we announce in the spring what shows we will be performing that summer. We have a dedicated group of patrons who love to come out on a summer evening to take in the spectacular view of the valley below from our outdoor deck and then sit back and enjoy a comedy or a musical for a couple of hours.”
Bickert, who has been a member for 33 years, attributes some of his greatest friendships a result of the organization. He fondly recalls the passion and dedication that is present among the cast, crew, and boards involved with Red Barn, as everyone involved does it for the sincere joy that shows and acting bring. It is his hope that such dedication, initiative, and guidance will continue with the generations to come.
The love of acting is a driving force for The Red Barn Players, according to Bickert.
Passion and Purpose
Perhaps one of the most notable traits of The Red Barn Players is the fact they are passionate about recognizing individuals for their hard work. Yearly dinner-dances allow the opportunity to present awards for outstanding service to the group, such as the Sammy Award (in honor of the late Samuel C. Mullin, who was a member since its start). It is not uncommon for those serving in the organization to have been involved for many years; North Sewickley Township resident, Eileen Hazen, for example, is Red Barn’s longest-serving member and now serves as Treasurer.
Fundraisers are also very common for the organization; Shakespeare’s restaurant has been the host for their popular musical revue fundraiser during Valentine’s Day Weekend. In addition, an annual Wine Festival is held the first weekend of August to enjoy the warmer weather.
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One thing that is great about small towns is that they have their own distinct charm, and it is no doubt that The Red Barn Theatre is a place to relax and enjoy each other’s company. It is a hub for continuous laughter, smiles, memories in our area….and perhaps most of all, it adds…character.
Red Barn Theatre
Physical Address:
1279 Route 288
Fombell, PA 16123
Mailing Address:
PO Box 628
Ellwood City, PA 16117
Reservations:
(724) 431-1707
Visit their website: Red Barn Players
Like Them On Facebook: Red Barn Players
Follow Them On Instagram: @redbarnplayers
