Category: Uncategorized

Good day FDLCT patrons,

Recently, we were notified by the Fond du Lac School District that they would be replacing the air conditioning units in the Fondy High School Performing Arts Center. At the time of notice, we were not given a specific timeline and had hoped the project would be completed prior to the curtain rising on Thursday night for Mamma Mia! We were notified today the project will not be completed in time for our performance.

This is incredibly unfortunate, and we are deeply apologetic about this situation. Although it is completely out of our hands and our control, we still carry a deep level of compassion for our patrons. The bottom line is the theatre will be warm with the anticipated temperatures.

Although we cannot expedite the completion process, we will be offering every guest a bottle of cold water at each performance. We understand this does not negate the fact it may be uncomfortable (trust us when we say, if we could install the new units, we would certainly give it our best!). Also, if you want to move your seat after the performance begins to allow for more space between you and other theatre goers, feel free.

Much of our board will be at each performance (including a couple of them in the performance). You are welcome to talk to any of us. I do ask you are kind; we did not make this decision.

We appreciate you all so much; you have no idea. We have all waited two plus years to see this extraordinary performance. As you sit in the theater, daydream about being on the beautiful Grecian coast, soaking in the warm summer air.

Sincerely,
Tracy Qualmann
FDLCT Board of Directors, President

UPDATE: Several shows and dates have changed. The information below is not up to date. See current information on our 22-23 season here!

Original announcement below.

We are so excited to announce five shows for our 65th season in 2022 and 2023!

Our last season saw record-breaking FDLCT audiences who came in droves to see what we were up to after the pandemic. Now, we’re continuing that momentum with a new slate of exciting theatrical productions.

You can buy season tickets online or request an order form by contacting FDLCT at fdlctboard@gmail.com or (920) 923-2206.

Footloose

Sept. 22–25, 2022
Goodrich Little Theatre
Directed by Nancy Irizarry

Toe-tapping pop hits underscore this adaptation of the hit film from 1984. When big-city kid Ren McCormack has to move to the tiny farming town of Bomont, he is appalled to learn about a ban on dancing instituted by the local preacher. Determined to rock the boat, Ren and his new friends team up to change their town forever.

Our Town

Nov. 17–20, 2022
Goodrich Little Theatre
Directed by Tom Augustine

A true classic of American drama, Our Town presents the lives (and deaths) of families in the simple town of Grover’s Corners. The play has become famous as a pioneering work of “meta-theatre,” being narrated by a stage manager and performed without sets. This production celebrates the 125th anniversary of playwright Thornton Wilder’s birth in Madison, Wisconsin.

Disenchanted!

Feb. 16-19, 2023
Goodrich Little Theatre
Directed by Cody Lindau

Forget what you know about princesses! Snow White, Cinderella, and the rest of your favorite storybook royalty are not too keen on the way they’ve been portrayed in modern media. They’re here to set the record straight and belt out the truth in this hilarious comedy musical. Some language and adult themes.

The SpongeBob Musical

June 22–25, 2023
Fond du Lac High School Performing Arts Center
Directed by Trevor Clementi

The stakes are higher than ever as SpongeBob and his undersea friends have to save Bikini Bottom from total annihilation! Based on the beloved animated series, this off-the-wall musical comedy features music from Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, Cyndi Lauper, Panic! At the Disco, David Bowie, and many more musical stars.

Newsies Jr.

July 27–30, 2023
Goodrich Little Theatre
Directed by Becky Dietsch

Inspired by true events, Newsies Jr. tells the story of the newsboys who rallied across New York City to strike against unfair working conditions. Together, the newsies learn that they are stronger united and create a movement to fight for what’s right. This abridged version of the classic is perfect for families and kids of all ages.

Theatre Family,

Our theatre and the Fond du Lac community lost a bright light with the passing of George “Bud” Caldwell. Some of us had the great honor of working with him, and others were thoroughly entertained as they watched him perform.

In a way to honor, remember, and celebrate Bud we have planned a dedication at the Firehouse on Sunday, October 24 at 1:00 p.m. You are invited to this event which will include stories, music, and a plaque dedication at our building. Bud’s family will be present and it is our hope that our theatre family will attend this event and share stories about Bud. He was a real treasure to our theatre family.

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Since the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted the last season at the beginning of 2020, we’ve been hard at work making plans for a safe return. And now, we’re excited to announce the five shows in our 63rd season!

Details will be available soon regarding tickets, auditions, and all other inquiries. As soon as we’re able to share more, we’ll update you via our website, Facebook page, and email list (send a message to fdlctboard@gmail.com if you’d like to be added!)

9 to 5

SEPT 30–OCT. 3, 2021 | GOODRICH LITTLE THEATRE

9 to 5 info

With music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, 9 to 5 is a hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era. Pushed to the boiling point, three female coworkers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss. When the boss is finally out of the picture, the women give their workplace a dream makeover, taking control of the company that had always kept them down. Hey, a girl can scheme, can’t she?

12 Angry Jurors

NOV. 18–21, 2021 | GOODRICH LITTLE THEATRE

12 Angry Jurors info

On a hot summer day after a long trial, a jury must decide whether a 19-year-old man is guilty of murdering his father. Needing a unanimous vote to pass judgment, tempers flare as eleven of the jurors try their best to convince the 1 dissenter to come around to their side. As the evidence is re-examined, however, new uncertainties come to light, forcing everyone to truly question if there is in fact some measure of “reasonable doubt”. Originally written for twelve men, this updated version proves that the conversation about what it means to live in a democracy is far from over.

Matilda

MARCH 3–6, 2022 | GOODRICH LITTLE THEATRE

Matilda the Musical info

With a cast heavily featuring both adults and children, Matilda the Musical revels in the anarchy of childhood and the power of imagination. Unloved by her cruel parents and terrorized by her school’s mean headmistress, the brilliant Matilda must inspire her classmates and her teachers to stand up against injustice and change their own destiny.

Mamma Mia!

JUNE 23–26, 2022 | FHS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Mamma Mia! info

In Mamma Mia!, the storytelling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs tells the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings back three men from her mother’s past. A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget!

Frozen Jr.

JULY 28–31, 2022 | GOODRICH LITTLE THEATRE

Frozen Jr. info

This enchanting modern classic from Disney brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to life on stage. A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen JR. tells the tale of Princesses Anna and Elsa as they discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. Loaded with adventure, magic and plenty of humor, Frozen Jr. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart!

Happy New Year!

As we close the calendar year 2020, we at Fond du Lac Community Theatre have so much to be thankful for, as well as a bright future to look forward to. 

2020 was unprecedented, to say the least. Due to the pandemic, we essentially lowered the curtain. However, our members and community at-large showed support like we could have never expected. From financial support through our annual appeal to engaging in our virtual events, to supporting our caroling telegrams to simply keeping the faith. Driven by a steadfast and incredibly optimistic board of directors, and supported by hundreds, Fond du Lac Community Theatre will raise the curtain again and provide the exceptional live theatre we all love. 

While we continue to think in innovative ways, we undoubtedly cannot wait until we can get back to some sense of normalcy. In the meantime, there are ways you can enjoy theatre and support our organization:

Encore Children’s Programming – Virtual classes for children in 4th-8th grade. Registration is limited to 10 households per class.

• January 9: Stage Makeup – Katherine Gilliland-Ahrens
• January 23: Comedy Improv – Sarah Calvert 
• February 13: Full Body Acting and Stage Presence – Rebecca Deitsch 
• March 13: Creating a Character – Trevor Clementi and Ellie Thelen 
• March 27: Stage Props – Katherine Gilliland-Ahrens 
• April 10: Preparing for an Audition – Nancy Irizarry-Beachy 

Improv – Our Improv team, neatly coined “What were you thinking?”, continues to offer virtual events. They are also available for hire. 

FDLCT Memorial Scholarship – this annual event provides funding to students who have participated in Fond du Lac Community Theatre productions and who plan to pursue higher education. The deadline to apply is March 31, 2021. 

Online Auction – Soon, we will be hosting an online auction where people can bid on baskets. We normally do an auction as part of our participation in the annual event, Brewfest. With the event looking different this year, we’re taking our baskets online. Watch our Facebook page for more details. Also, you can still enjoy a version of Brewfest this year. Learn more here.

Donation – The pandemic is not over. Our primary revenue stream is through ticket sales. Until we’re able to safely offer live productions, donations to the organization are paramount to our continued success. 

In closing, I say BRAVO to our members, volunteers, board of directors, community partners, and theatre-lovers. Together, we will get through this and we will see the lights go up and that curtain rise again. Until then, keep calm and remember, this is only intermission. 

Waiting in the wings,

Tracy Qualmann

Board of Directors, President 

Written by board member Maggie Matysik and performed by fan favorite Lyle Goebel, we hope this parody of “You’ll Be Back” helps you look forward to your next time onstage, backstage or in the audience of a Fond du Lac Community Theatre show!

This year has been challenging in so many ways. With the health and safety of our volunteers, members, and guests at the forefront, we have made the decision to cancel the remainder of events as scheduled for calendar year 2020. This is a decision with profound and potentially negative ramifications on our organization; however, no price tag can be put on the people who make us who we are.

We take great pride in providing an array of theater-based entertainment. We’re committed to returning to the stage when it is safe for our actors, directors, and guests to do so. We encourage everyone to continue to take precautions. At FDLCT, we will continue to watch as the world navigates through this widespread pandemic. When the time is right, we’ll be back, together, to share in the joy live theater provides. In the meantime, please continue to visit our Facebook page for updates on alternative offerings and happenings.

On behalf of the board of directors, we sincerely appreciate your continued support and understanding. We can’t wait to see you again!

Tracy Qualmann
President
Fond du Lac Community Theatre Board of Directors

Dear Season Ticket Holders,

Fond du Lac Community Theatre (FDLCT) strives to bring quality, live entertainment to the Fond du Lac community and surrounding area; however, we are also committed to the safety of our artists, volunteers, and, of course, our patrons.  As previously communicated, FDLCT was excited to have been successful in rescheduling Mamma Mia, originally planned for April 23-26, 2020, to September 10-13, 2020.

As the situation surrounding COVID-19 has continued to evolve, our response has continued to evolve as well.  While we want our talented cast and crew to be able to showcase their hard work to the masses, we want to ensure we are as safe as possible in doing so and, therefore, have found it necessary to postpone Mamma Mia again.  We are looking forward to being able to present Mamma Mia in June 2021 when, hopefully, concerns surrounding the pandemic will have subsided.

While we anticipate rescheduled performances, we understand June 2021 is still ten months away and our current plans, like everything else in a pandemic, may continue to be subject to change.  Because of this, the Board of Directors has had to make some tough decisions for our organization and our doors will remain closed through the 2020 calendar year.

To avoid additional future adjustments and confusion, tickets for Mamma Mia and previously granted credits for Grease will be rescinded.  We want to sincerely thank the season ticket holders who had already donated the cost of their Grease ticket(s) back to FDLCT.

All season ticket holders for Mamma Mia and season ticket holders who opted for a credit for Grease will have two options:

• We can refund the cost of your Mamma Mia ticket and Grease credit ($16.00/ticket/show) to you.
• You can donate the value of your Mamma Mia ticket and Grease credit ($16.00/ticket/show) as a gift to Fond du Lac Community Theatre.  If you choose to do this, you will help support our organization during this time in which we have, quite literally, closed our doors.  We will happily provide you a donation receipt for your tax-deductible gift.

Your next steps:

• Please fill out the Season Ticket Holders form by Monday, September 7, 2020 to communicate your choice to either receive a refund or make a donation.
• If we have not heard from you by midnight on Monday, September 7, 2020, we will automatically process a refund.

Further, because of this extended closure, we are likely looking at a condensed 63rd FDLCT Season and will not be selling season ticket packages for 2020-2021.  We recognize that our season ticket holders are some of our most ardent supporters and we do not want to minimize your continued backing of our organization.  In the event we can present shows in the remainder of the season in 2021, we will continue to offer our current season ticket holders the ticket discount they currently enjoy ($4.00/ticket).  Further, season ticket holders will enjoy early access to ticket sales before they go on sale to the general public so you can continue to enjoy the premium seats you already love.  If we have the opportunity to see any shows come to fruition, more information will be communicated to you at that time on how to enjoy these perks.

If you have any questions, we encourage you to message us through Facebook Messenger, email us at fdlctboard@gmail.com or call us at 920.923.2206 (please leave a message with Megan if we do not pick up). We will do our best to get back to you in a timely fashion.

We appreciate your continued kindness, patience, and understanding as we continue to navigate this truly once-in-a-lifetime situation.  The show will go on…just a little later than anticipated.

Sincerely,

Megan Retzleff

Fond du Lac Community Theatre Board of Directors Secretary

Fond du Lac Community Theatre is pleased to announce that the 2020 Memorial Scholarship winner is Katherine Behlke.

Katherine attended Fond du Lac High School. She was active in the music and theatre program participating in Marching Band, Color Guard, Jazz Band, and the school plays and musicals. She also was a member of the National Honor Society and the Sexuality and Gender Equality Club.

Katherine has been involved with Fond du Lac Community Theatre for approximately nine years. She has worked behind the scenes on stage crews for Harvey, Beauty and the Beast, and Give My Regards to Broadway – and acted on stage in supporting roles and as part of the ensemble of shows including I Remember Mama, The Prisoner of Zenda, Peter Pan, and Sweeney Todd.

Katherine plans to attend UW-Milwaukee for a Mechanical Engineering major and Physics minor, and at some point plans to get her Masters in Mechnical Engineering. She hopes to someday work for Disney as an Imagineer designing rides, animatronics, and theming in the parks. And she hopes to find a local community theatre to be involved in wherever she goes.

Katherine is the daughter of Ron & Rhea Behlke of Fond du Lac. As the recipient of this year’s Memorial Scholarship, Katherine will receive the award at the Fond du Lac Community Theatre’s Annual Meeting on Tuesday, July 21 at 6:30pm at the Community Theatre building located at 250 W. Ninth Street. This meeting is open to all those interested in learning more about the organization. Katherine will receive a $500 scholarship and will have her name engraved on the FDLCT Memorial Scholarship plaque which is proudly displayed at the FDLCT building.