From humble beginnings in a renovated church in 1953, to opening a state-of-the-art facility in 2018, Lakeshore Players Theatre represents a remarkable 70-season history of community-focused theatre. Featuring seasoned Twin Cities professionals along with stage newcomers, Lakeshore artists gather with the goal of uplifting cultural awareness and enriching lives through entertainment in a welcoming and inclusive environment. And by offering unique, hands-on classes and youth productions, Lakeshore Players’ team of devoted educators strive to create authentic learning experiences for the next generation of theatre artists. Between five Mainstage productions, an annual new works festival, concerts, two Kids & Family series productions, and a robust education program, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy!
This stellar celebratory season opens with the Golden Age musical Singin’ in the Rain. Lovingly adapted from the classic film, the show is a hit parade of delightful songs and unforgettable dances (including the show-stopping title number—complete with onstage rainstorm!). Running September 9-October 2, this family-friendly show is sure to delight!
Jean Shepard’s memoir of growing up in the Midwest comes to life through the eyes of Ralphie, everyone’s favorite bespectacled boy in a pink bunny suit. Ralphie’s pursuit of the ultimate Christmas gift brings a score of adventures in the delightful holiday play A Christmas Story, playing November 18-December 18.
Coming January 27 through February 12 is the “funniest farce ever written,” Noises Off. Doors slamming, on and offstage intrigue, and an errant herring all figure in the plot of this hilarious comedy.
Playing March 10-26 is Calendar Girls. As Annie and Chris work to raise money to support cancer caregivers, their venture of a semi-nude calendar teaches these “models of a certain age” that friendship never goes out of date.
The Mainstage season rounds out with the musical La Cage aux Folles, running April 28-May 21. Georges and Albin, two men partnered for 20 years, are surprised when Georges’ son announces his engagement to the daughter of a bigoted politician. Complicating the situation is the family business: a drag nightclub where Albin is the star. Georges agrees to masquerade as “normal” to meet the new in-laws, but Albin has other plans–with hilarious results.
The 2022-2023 Season also heralds the return of the Kids & Family Series with two productions: The Girl Who Swallowed a Cactus & The Giver, as well as the ever-popular 19th Annual 10-Minute Play Festival featuring new works. This year also launches the inaugural year of Water’s Edge: Lakeshore’s Second Stage Series with three productions in its Black Box Theatre. Concerts, including brand new “Songbook Live!” shows as well as 70th Season community celebrations round out the year.
Less than 30 minutes from downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul, Lakeshore Players offers fabulous theatre in a fun, relaxed environment just a few blocks away from the charming downtown of White Bear Lake. Tickets are $30 with discounts on flex passes and subscriptions. More information can be found at LakeshorePlayers.org, or by calling our Box Office at (651) 478-7427.