It all started because a group of lease holders in the wilderness of the Michaux State Forest wanted summer entertainment for themselves and their fellow vacationers. In 1951 it was called the Michaux Community Theater. The following season this successful summer theater was renamed Totem Pole Playhouse – and history was made.
Totem Pole Playhouse, located just a few miles west of Gettysburg in Fayetteville, Pennsylvania, at the junction of Routes 30 and 233, is just like going to a classic New York City production, only better. Patrons don’t have to worry about driving in Manhattan traffic to get there, or pay Manhattan prices. Known as Broadway under the Pines, Totem Pole Playhouse is an amazing theatrical enterprise, with many Broadway actors, set designers, and production workers bringing the magic of the theater to rural Pennsylvania.
In 1954, William Putch became the artistic director for the new Totem Pole Playhouse. Married to actress Jean Stapleton, Bill stayed with the company as director until his death in 1984. The void left by the talented Mr. Putch was filled by the gifted Carl Schurr – who gave his inspiration and creativity to Totem Pole until 2008. Today, the equally talented Ray Ficca has taken the reins left by his predecessors. Having only four artistic directors in sixty years is quite an accomplishment. There are many, in fact, who have been with Totem Pole Playhouse for decades, both on and off stage. “That’s continuity,” Ray explains. “It’s part of the reason we’re successful. It makes us an exception.”
Another reason for Totem Pole’s success is that they put on a great show. Musicals, comedies, classics, and Broadway hits can all be enjoyed in Totem Pole’s newly renovated theater. Thanks to their Capital Campaign, Totem Pole’s many generous patrons have funded and made possible a newer, more comfortable theater. Aisles have been widened, lighting has improved, seats are custom-made – and there are even a few loveseats for couples who prefer a little more closeness. The theater is now air-conditioned to keep out the summer heat, and new carpet has been installed. Restrooms are enlarged and renovated for when nature inevitably calls, and a new pavilion has been added for outdoor concessions.
The new season begins with the touching story of the Andrews sisters, who served their country by entertaining troops of World War II, in Sisters of Swing, showing from May 29 through June 13. It will be followed by 45 Seconds from Broadway, a play by the inimitable Neil Simon, showing June 15-27. For those who love American history, Ray Ficca stars in The Complete History of America (abridged), from June 29 through July 11.
The world premiere of a Civil War comedy, The Coward and the Glory is the hilarious story of a dull-witted Civil War reenactor who finds himself suddenly back in time. The show opens on July 13 and runs through July 25. The month of August brings Unnecessary Farce and Ruthless! The Musical, from the Off-Broadway hit. Totem Pole also offers a post-season comedy in late August with Late Nite Catechism. For tickets or reservation information, call 888-805-7056, or 717-352-2164. You can also check out the website at www.TotemPolePlayhouse.org. For children, teens, and young adults, ages 5 to 21, Totem Pole offers seats for $15. For the older crowd, prices are still reasonable, and a variety of seating is available. Gift certificates are offered and sold by the Box Office, as well as seasonal subscriptions which offer discounts for all six shows.
As Totem Pole Playhouse celebrates its 60th season in south central Pennsylvania, we wish them many more decades entertaining the masses in the beautiful and quiet country setting that has made it one of the nation’s most unique theaters.
