CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER
AUBURN — Auburn Area Community Theatre (AACT) will kick off its 2026-27 season Aug. 7 through 16 with “The Spitfire Grill,” a heartwarming American musical by James Valcq and Fred Alley, based on the 1996 film of the same name.
Set in the small town of Gilead, Wisconsin, “The Spitfire Grill” tells the story of Percy, a young woman searching for a fresh start. As she begins a new life working at the local diner, her presence sparks unexpected change throughout the struggling town. Before long, the people of Gilead begin to confront the secrets and sorrows of their past, discovering the possibility of healing, redemption and renewed hope.
Reviewers have praised “The Spitfire Grill” for its “simplicity and emotional resonance, which has become all too rare in musical theatre.” Director Terry Kelley agrees. “Every character has their own secret, and their own story within this story,” Kelley said. “They each have a moment where they confront their past and discover a chance for healing. This is a beautiful story.”
Known for its rich folk and Americana sound, the musical’s score has been described by reviewers as “infectious” and “simply astonishing.” Blending country, Americana, bluegrass and Broadway-style pop ballads, the music gives voice to a deeply moving story about second chances, forgiveness and the power of community. “The Spitfire Grill” won the Richard Rodgers Production Award and received nominations for Best Musical from the Outer Critics Circle.
Performances of “The Spitfire Grill” will take place Aug. 7, 8, 9 and 13, 14, 15 and 16 at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, 222 E. Drake Ave., in Auburn. All shows begin at 7 p.m. except for Sunday when matinees will begin at 2 p.m. Doors open 30 minutes before show time. Tickets are available at www.AuburnAct.org and at the door. Ticket prices are $16 for adults and $14 for students and seniors.
“The Spitfire Grill” is made possible through a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts.
Following “The Spitfire Grill,” AACT’s season continues with: “Imagine a Dragon” for Junior Performers ages 5 through 12 in October; AACT Scene Works, a collection of shorter scenes offering broad community participation, in December; “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical” for Young Performers ages 13 through 18 in February; and the drama “The Diviners” in May to close out the season.
AACT is still accepting volunteers, season sponsors and playbill advertisers for the new season. The deadline is July 20 for sponsor recognition and advertisements to make it into the playbill for the August show. Reach more than 1,000 audience members across 30 performances this season.
For more information about advertising and sponsorship, auditions, upcoming performances or other ways to get involved, please visit AuburnAct.org or follow us on Facebook at AuburnACT. AACT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and all donations and sponsorships are ta- deductible. As a volunteer-driven organization, AACT offers something for everyone — join now and get in on the AACTion.
