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OCT Alumni (From L to R): Maggie Cooke, Ginny Holderness, Dennis Delamar, Tim Hodgin, Claudia Galup, Scott Orr, Jonathan M. Ewart, Rob Taylor, Jenny Taylor, Liza Cook Elsner, and Johnny Lazenby. OCT Celebrates 50 Years of Rich History The Mayor of Concord, Steve Morris, began OCT’s 50th Anniversary celebration with a proclamation: June 13, 2026 is hereby known as Old Courthouse Theatre Day. A fitting tribute to an organization who has served Concord and its surrounding area for half a century with entertainment, education, culture, and community. The evening was a year in planning, and the culminating gala brought together long-time veterans of OCT with enthusiastic new-comers. After a brief business meeting where OCT welcomed Jonathan M. Ewart, Chris Harris-Firth, and Jean Kadela to the Board of Directors, the rest of the evening focused on memories and history. Intermixed with the 50th-season production awards, OCT veteran Chris Stonnell organized an impressive list of talent to remember many of the fantastic musicals the theatre has produced over the years. Highlights of the entertainment included Michael Jonathan from this season’s Company with ‘Being Alive,’ followed by numerous OCT alumni gathered on stage to deliver a mega-medley of historic musical songs. The legendary Dan Truhitte (Rolf from The Sound of Music ) made a truly special and meaningful appearance performing a medley highlighting ‘Edelweiss’ and concluding with ‘Climb Ev’ry Mountain.’ A duet from Guys and Dolls with Chris Stonnell and Jim Longwell was somehow performed across the coast, thanks to modern technology, and Lifetime Achievement Winner, Kim Baysinger, reprised a duet from ‘Pump Boys and Dinettes’ with local celebrity Beth Troutman (that performance was live). After careful research and work, Jonathan M. Ewart presented a particularly poignant and meaningful tribute to members of the OCT family who are no longer with us. The ‘In Memoriam’ slide show was hauntingly accompanied by the beautiful ‘No One Is Alone’ from Into the Woods . After the presentation of Best Show for Season 50, The Foreigner , awards were handed out that were specific and special to Old Courthouse Theatre. The Wilson Family (a historic and extremely pivotal family in OCT’s history) bestowed their Volunteerism award to the Weathers family: Holly, Rick, Aiden, and Chloe. The Mary Thompson Award (named for one of the founding members who worked tirelessly backstage) was given to Jennifer Riordan and Kim Baysinger. President John Harris also awarded Chris Barcroft, Jon Kadela, and Brian Rassler with special recognition of service to the theatre. The evening’s ceremony concluded with various members of the history of OCT singing verses of ‘Try to Remember’ from The Fantasticks as slides played showing all the rich, impressive plays and musicals OCT has produced in its 50 year history. The last image lingering over the venue was the founder, Mary Snead Boger, no doubt approving the perpetuation and fulfillment of her dream. With the 50th ‘Golden’ Anniversary behind them, OCT now focuses on the future. Our board continues to hone in on our ten-year plan. Season 51 holds much promise, and the programming committee is already well into plans for Season 52. Our mission: To provide and increase exceptional opportunities to engage, entertain, and educate the public on the value of theatre arts. Our focus: Community.
You can’t go very far in just ten minutes. We’ll take that challenge! Old Courthouse Theatre will offer its Ten-Minute Play Festival on June 4-6 at 7:30pm and June 7 at 2:30pm and endeavor to take you from a church basement, to a waiting room, to an airport…and many other points of interest! A quick re-cap for people who haven’t yet experienced this fast-paced event: Eight playwrights have created eight ten-minute stories. Eight directors have envisioned how to tell these eight stories. Twenty-two characters will come to life with the skill and talent of sixteen actors to embody these eight stories. Our audiences will get four chances to experience these eight stories, all in one event, for the low price of $15. Now in its 15th season, the ten-minute play festival at OCT is a celebration of local talents: playwrights, directors, actors, and crew. It is a labor of love: ALL people connected to and working on the festival are volunteers, investing time and talent to support our theatre. It also serves as a fund-raiser for the theatre. ALL proceeds from the festival (except a small stipend we pay to reward the skill of the writers) go directly to support the myriad projects OCT is tackling, from producing plays to maintaining its 100-year-old building. Andy Rassler is the initiator and coordinator of this event, and this year she is joined by veteran directors Denise McKercher, Jonathan Ewart, and May May. In the true spirit of inviting new talent, they are joined this year by new (to OCT) directors Frank Sesta, Paul Kelley, Chris Ortiz Lopez, Freddie Harward, and Chandler Smith. Our team of actors includes: Nick Asa, Jerry Cardenas, Ciel Davis, Soliel Davis, Kelly Durden, Tabatha Johnson, Jean Kadela, Jon Kadela, Denise McKercher, Victoria Powell, Andy Rassler, Tee Sampson, Linda Smith, Melissa Stevens, Devan Thomas, Tiffany Trudewind, and Roger Watson. Our line-up this year includes: The Best Is Yet To Come by Judy Dove Delayed Departure by Pam Newcomer Everything In Between by John Mabey 50 Percent Chance by Kara Barnette Fifty Signs by Connie Dinkler A Golden Anniversary by Nicole Panteleakos The Holey Spirit by Ashade Altine Parting by Nicole Cunningham Tickets are available at www.octconcord.com or 704.788.2405. Direct Link: https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=318080
OCT Produces Its Fourth Award-Winning Show of the 50th Golden Season
Old Courthouse Theatre is excited to introduce its historic 51st season. Kim Baysinger, chair of the theatre's Programming Committee said at our live announcement: “The traditional anniversary gift for those experiencing their 51st year together is MARBLE. And like that coveted stone, OCT is set to gift you with a 51st season that is solidly beautiful!” After a year-long vetting, reading, and voting process, the Programming Committee sent its season recommendations to the OCT Board of Directors. For this knock-out season, the vote was unanimous. Our season opener, set in long ago France, is a swashbuckler full of action and adventure; a classic tale turned on its comedic ear by America’s preeminent comic playwright. We begin our season with Ken Ludwig’s The Three Musketeers ! What better way to enter fall with all its spooky thrills than to be mesmerized by the greatest selling novelist of all time? From the UK, a tale of murder, police, invisible ink, hidden doorways and secret drawers. OCT offers up the comedy thriller from Agatha Christie… Spider’s Web ! Our eyes look to New York City and the time of the Great Depression for our holiday show this season. On the heels of our successful last few years of holiday shows, we are leapin’-lizards-over-the-moon-a-tingle to bring you the most iconic musical of all time, Annie . Likely a new title for you, our February show comes from a writing team known for their ‘knock it out of the park’ comedies. Trust us when we say: This one is off-the-charts funny! Put together a wedding at a venue across the country, a Mama who won’t get on an airplane, and a quirky set of characters getting in a car together, and you’ve got: HILARITY. Otherwise known as Mama Won’t Fly . This is a ‘please don’t miss this one’ type of show, and we are thrilled to be producing it. We end our season with a title that just belongs on the OCT stage. It brings so much of OCT, Concord, and our mission together in one place, and when the rights became available, OCT pounced with no hesitation. The Avett Brothers started here. Their roots are here. They belong here. Their success has been a blessing for our community for years, and (for those who haven’t followed them) they recently extended their work from the concert stage to Broadway. We are absolutely awe-struck and humbled to be producing the newly-released and regional premiere of: Swept Away . It is our hope that we are offering a little something of solid beauty for everyone in our 51st season. As we continue to grow, expand, and work to serve our community, the OCT board and volunteers promise to devote all of our talents, time, and energy to producing the best versions of these plays for you, our family of supporters. See you at the theatre.
How One Timeless Tale Continues to Inspire Generations
Old Courthouse Theatre’s President Proves Theatre Magic Isn’t Just on Stage—It’s in the Work You Don’t See
Help Us Raise $60,000 by May 31, 2026 to Keep the Magic Alive Old Courthouse Theatre (OCT) is more than entertainment—it’s the living, breathing soul of Concord and surrounding communities. On our local stage, stories unfold, connections are forged, and dreams take flight beneath the glow of the lights. This is a place where laughter resounds, tears are shed, and each applause reminds us that we belong. As we launch our annual fund drive, with a goal of raising $60,000 by May 31, 2026, we invite you to help ensure that our theatre remains a vibrant, welcoming home for creativity and culture. Why does my donation matter? Every dollar you contribute powers the magic of live performance. Old Courthouse Theatre is a non-profit organization fueled not by big box office receipts, but by the generosity of patrons like you. Ticket sales alone do not cover the costs of lights, costumes, sets, scripts, and the skilled artists who dedicate themselves to bringing unforgettable stories to life. Your support bridges the gap, sustaining not only our productions but also our educational programs, outreach initiatives, and vital building maintenance. Support Local Talent: When you give, you nurture the dreams of aspiring actors, directors, designers, and technicians from right here in our neighborhood. Preserve, Maintain, and Improve Our Historic Home : OCT’s beloved building is a local treasure—standing for over 100 years, However, with age comes the ongoing need for maintenance and restoration. Your donation helps ensure this historic space is not only safe and welcoming but also improved for future generations. We are committed to essential repairs, accessibility upgrades, and protecting the unique character of our theatre. Invest in Tomorrow: Equipment and Technology Upgrades : As we look ahead, keeping pace with modern production needs is crucial. Your support allows us to invest in new lighting, sound systems, and backstage equipment—ensuring that every show is as magical and memorable as the last. These upgrades mean more dynamic performances, greater safety for cast and crew, and new possibilities for creativity on stage. What is the impact of my generosity? Every gift, large or small, adds up to something extraordinary. When you invest in our theatre, you invest in people—volunteers who devote countless hours, children who discover confidence in their first role, and audiences who leave inspired. The ripple effect of your generosity is felt across our entire community. Arts Education : Your donation funds workshops and summer camps that introduce young people to stagecraft, building artistic skills and lifelong friendships. Inclusion and Diversity : We strive to foster diverse voices on our stage and behind the scenes, ensuring that everyone’s story can be told and heard. Economic Vitality : A thriving theatre attracts visitors, supports local restaurants and businesses, and creates jobs—making our town a more vibrant place to live. Where will my gift be invested? OCT’s Board made the decision to invest the funds in several areas. These are: Lobby Renovations – Our lobby was last renovated over 25 years ago. An investment in subfloor improvements, new carpeting, painting, ceiling repairs, electrical and select replacement of furnishings is needed. Improvements to our Audio System – Our recently conducted Season Survey confirmed that OCT must improve our sound system. The first order of business is purchasing the needed wireless microphones and peripherals. If possible we will address overhead microphones. Improvements to Wilson Family Black Box The plan is to obtain similar chairs for the black box. This is to improve the comfort of our patrons. AED Units For the safety of cast, crew, volunteers and patrons , the plan is to purchase two AED units for the Main Stage and the Wilson Family Black Box. Improvements to our Network OCT would like to improve the ability to scan tickets, improve the speed of check out in concessions and monitor energy usage 24 hours a day. Our current network will not support that. Also, OCT would like to improve production capabilities that require consistent and a robust network usage. Reserve Funds Like every family and organization, OCT needs to maintain a rainy-day fund. For nonprofits, the guidance is to hold in savings at least six (6) months cash to cover overhead expenses. OCT needs to grow our savings to meet that guidance. Any excess funds will be invested in planning for handicap access to the Wilson Family Black Box Theatre and exterior facility needs. What does the annual fund mean to our community? If you’ve ever watched a child beam with pride after their first curtain call, or witnessed an audience moved to tears by a powerful performance, you’ve seen the difference OCT makes. For many, this is a sacred space—a second home, a launching pad for dreams, and a source of life-long memories. Consider the student who found their voice in our summer camp, the retiree who rediscovered a love of acting, or the family who made our annual holiday show a beloved tradition. Your support keeps these stories unfolding, year after year. The Urgency: Why now? Our goal is ambitious: we need to raise $60,000 by May 31, 2026. With rising costs for materials, utilities, and licensing, the need for support is greater than ever. Added to this are the increased demands of maintaining and improving our century-old building, as well as investing in the equipment that keeps our productions running smoothly and safely. This fund drive is not just a routine appeal—it’s a call to action to sustain the lifeblood of our artistic community. If we fall short, we risk programming cutbacks, fewer educational opportunities, and falling behind on needed facility repairs. Your timely gift ensures we can plan a full season of performances, keep our historic theatre safe and accessible, and maintain the technical resources that bring stories to life. How can I help? Make a Donation : Every contribution, whether $25 or $2,500, brings us closer to our goal. Consider becoming a monthly donor for sustained impact. You can make a one-time donation at: https://octconcord.app.neoncrm.com/forms/season-50-annual-fund . If you prefer, you can make a monthly donation at: https://www.octconcord.com/support#FoundersCircle Share Our Story : Spread the word among friends, family, and colleagues—your voice can inspire others to give. Attend Our Events : Enjoy a show, participate in a workshop, or volunteer your time. Your presence supports us as much as your dollars do. Here is the link to our season: https://www.octconcord.com/50th-season Corporate and Matching Gifts : Ask your employer about matching donations, or sponsor a performance to give back to the community in a meaningful way. Can I trust my donation will be used for its purpose? We are committed to using your donations wisely. Every dollar raised goes directly into programming, education, equipment and building improvements, and maintaining our venue. A Personal Invitation Imagine a world without the laughter, connection, and inspiration that theatre brings. Imagine a community less vibrant, less united, and less hopeful. Together, we can ensure that doesn’t happen. By giving to our annual fund drive, you are not only sustaining our theatre, the memories of countless artists and audiences, and ensuring that a 100-year-old landmark continues to be a beacon of creativity, you are helping to write the next chapter of OCT’s story: one filled with light, laughter, and limitless possibility. Join us, and let your generosity take center stage. See you at the theatre……
Community Theatre seems like a pretty inexpensive endeavor, wouldn’t you say?
Old Courthouse Theatre Celebrates 49th Season at Annual Gala Honoring Outstanding Performances and Technical Excellence in Community Theatre Concord, N.C., June 19, 2025 — Old Courthouse Theatre (OCT), Concord’s premier community theatre, hosted its annual gala this past weekend, capping off its 49th season with an evening of celebration, recognition, and community spirit. The event honored standout performances and exceptional design work, as voted on by season ticket holders, and the volunteers who bring live theater to life on the OCT stage. Arsenic and Old Lace , directed by Stuart Jonap, took home top honors for Best Show as well as technical awards Best Set Design (Roger Watson) and Best Costume Design (Kim Baysinger). Other awards for OCT’s five mainstage productions included: Best Lighting Design : Lee Franklin ( Cabaret ) Best Sound Design : Jon Kadela ( Miracle on 34th Street The Musical ) Best Actor : Wesley Scott as “Kris Kringle” ( Miracle on 34th Street The Musical ) Best Actress : Lindsey Litka-Montes as “Sally Bowles” ( Cabaret ) Best Supporting Actor : Nathan Brooks as “Marvin Shellhammer” ( Miracle on 34th Street The Musical ) Best Supporting Actress : Kara Barnette as “Dr. Herman Einstein” ( Arsenic and Old Lace ) Best Featured Performer : Marc Anderson as “Officer O’Hara” ( Arsenic and Old Lace ) Best Cameo : Herchelle Smith “Mr. Witherspoon” ( Arsenic and Old Lace ) Best Featured Youth Performer : Chloe Weathers as “Susan Walker” ( Miracle on 34th Street The Musical ) Best Youth Ensemble Member : Tyler Opel ( Miracle on 34th Street The Musical ) Favorite Newcomer was awarded in a tie to both Nathan Brooks and Lindsey Litka-Montes , each recognized for their dynamic debut performances. The evening also included the presentation of the People’s Choice Awards , celebrating fan favorites from the 2024–2025 season: Steel Magnolias : Rachel Mackall Arsenic and Old Lace : Linda Jones Miracle on 34th Street The Musical : Wesley Scott The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised] : Kevin Leichman Cabaret : Lindsey Litka-Montes In addition, OCT’s newly renovated Black Box theater was named in honor of The Wilson Family, recognizing their exceptional service and nearly five decades of dedication to OCT. Finally, OCT recognized outstanding volunteers for their contribution and commitment to the theater: Wilson Family Volunteerism Award: The Garrido Family Mary Thompson Award for Volunteerism: Brian Rassler As Old Courthouse Theatre looks forward to its Golden Season, celebrating 50 years of delivering exceptional community theater to Concord, NC, and the surrounding neighborhoods, the gala served as a heartfelt reminder of the passion, talent and dedication within Concord’s vibrant arts community. For more information about OCT’s upcoming season and how to get involved, visit www.octconcord.com.
The 10-Minute Play Festival Returns to the Black Box on June 6-8, 2025
Travel back in time to 1929-30 Germany this weekend with Old Courthouse Theatre.
Although we have so many things happening, the first post is dedicated to our newly designed website.
