Continuing our 77th Season, Jim sits down with director Laura Gayvert to talk about our winter drama, Other Desert Cities by Jon Robin Baitz. Set against the sun-bleached elegance of Palm Springs, this sharp, emotionally charged play explores family, memory, and the stories we tell—both to others and to ourselves.

Laura shares her approach to guiding this complex, intimate piece, and reflects on her own history with The Colonial Players, including her role in our return to live theatre after COVID in Maytag Virgin. With no spoilers, this conversation offers thoughtful insight into the play’s themes, the power of ensemble storytelling, and why Other Desert Cities feels especially resonant right now.

Other Desert Cities runs January 9–31, 2026.

In this special episode, Jim speaks with Jen Pastrone the Executive Director of Seeds 4 Success, the chosen charity partner for this year’s production of A Christmas Carol. Together, they discuss the mission of Seeds 4 Success, the vital work the organization does in our community, and why its focus on opportunity, dignity, and hope aligns so beautifully with the spirit of Dickens’ beloved story.

As Scrooge learns that generosity can change lives, this conversation highlights how Seeds 4 Success is making a real, tangible difference—helping individuals and families build brighter, more stable futures. Learn how audiences can get involved, give back, and carry the message of A Christmas Carol beyond the stage and into the community.

https://seeds4success.org/

Jim sits down with director Erica Miller to talk all things A Christmas Carol, the beloved musical holiday adaptation returning to CP. Together, they explore what makes Dickens’ timeless tale of redemption, generosity, and second chances resonate year after year, and how this production balances cherished tradition with fresh theatrical magic.

From ghosts and goodwill to heart, humor, and holiday spectacle, Erica shares her vision for bringing Scrooge’s journey to life on the CP stage—and why this story continues to feel essential, especially at Christmastime. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the show anew, this behind-the-scenes conversation is the perfect way to step into the spirit of the season.

Hear all about the witty, whiplash-fast farce Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors as Jim sinks his teeth into a conversation with director Debbie Barber-Eaton and her fangtastic Stage Manager, Andy McLendon. Expect outrageous characters, breakneck plot twists, and a backstage look at how this blood-soaked slapstick comes to life on our stage—fangs, stakes, and questionable accents included.

Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors runs October 24 - November 15, 2025, continuing a season packed with big laughs, bold choices, and the occasional undead visitor. Tune in for behind-the-scenes antics, unfiltered chuckles, and a sneak peek at why this ridiculous romp is the perfect way to celebrate the spooky season.

Starting our 77th Season, Jim sits down with director Greg Jones to discuss Oscar Wilde’s sparkling comedy of scandal, secrets, and society—An Ideal Husband. Get an inside look at how this timeless satire on politics, morality, and marriage comes to life on our stage, and hear why Wilde’s wit still strikes a chord today.

An Ideal Husband runs September 5 – 27, 2025, opening a season full of sharp stories and unforgettable performances. Tune in for behind-the-scenes insights, laughter, and a glimpse at what makes this production a perfect season opener.

🎟️ https://tickets.thecolonialplayers.org/eventperformances.asp?evt=348

Closing our 76th Season, Jim talks to Shannon Benil, the director of "Bump". Shannon talks about the power and pitfalls of technology to advance human connection, and the joys of live theatre.

Bump runs from April 25 — May 17, 2025.
https://tickets.thecolonialplayers.org/eventperformances.asp?evt=340

Our Spring musical for Season 76 is Working — A Musical. Jim talks to the director, Tom Wyatt, about how important this localized version of Working is in the community, and his history with CP.

Working runs from February 28 — March 29, 2025.

Welcome to the Holiday Season! Jim chats with Joe Thompson, the director of the season 76 holiday show and writer of the Holiday Showcase, all about children's theater and how joyfulness spreads when you remember to embrace the fun!

A Visit From St. Nicholas runs December 5-15, 2024.
Tickets: https://tickets.thecolonialplayers.org/eventperformances.asp?evt=344

Our second show of Season 76 is The Winslow Boy. Jim talks to the director, Mary Fawcett Watko, about her history with CP and the joys of casting great actors.

The Winslow Boy runs from October 25 — November 16, 2024.

Starting our 76th Season, Jim talks to Rikki Howie Lacewell, the director of our season opener "Tiny Beautiful Things". Rikki extols the virtues of human connection, and the power of theatre to make us feel.

Tiny Beautiful Things runs from September 6 — September 30, 2024.
https://tickets.thecolonialplayers.org/eventperformances.asp?evt=336