May 13, 2022

Post Playhouse returning after two-year hiatus in Fort Rob

Posted May 13, 2022 3:02 PM

By Nebraska Game and Parks

Live theatre is returning to Fort Robinson State Park near Crawford this summer.

After a two-year interruption because of COVID-19 precautions, the Post Playhouse will begin its summer run of five musicals the last weekend of May.

The Post Playhouse, located along U.S. Highway 20 at Fort Robinson State Park, opened in 1967 and has entertained countless sold-out crowds since. (Justin Haag, Nebraska Game and Parks)
The Post Playhouse, located along U.S. Highway 20 at Fort Robinson State Park, opened in 1967 and has entertained countless sold-out crowds since. (Justin Haag, Nebraska Game and Parks)

Tom Ossowski, the Playhouse’s producing artistic director, said the repertory theatre was in the process of contracting performers when the pandemic struck in 2020, and the long break makes it especially gratifying to be back in rehearsals this year.

“We’re not just a theatre about doing a show; we’re a theatre about our community and bringing people together,” Ossowski said. “And, that’s been the hard part. Not being able to let people come together over the summer, see a show, have dinner and have a nice evening out. But, it’s also nice to just be back performing again.”

The first of the shows, “Damn Yankees,” begins May 27. Joining the rotating schedule will be “Desperate Measures” on June 3, “The Sound of Music” on June 10, “Church Basement Ladies” on June 24 and “Something Rotten!” on July 1. The shows will run through Aug. 14.

“I think we’ve picked up a great season that offers something for everyone. Something a little bit more sophisticated for the adults and something more splashy or entertaining for our young audiences,” Ossowski said.

The Playhouse again has hired professional performers from points throughout the country, along with a few actors from the surrounding region. “The Sound of Music” features local youth in its cast.

The season schedule, tickets and more are available at postplayhouse.com. Tickets are available for individual performances, and four- and five-show season subscriptions with a discounted rate. Tickets also can be purchased by calling the box office at 888-665-1976.