Saturday August 24th children from the community were invited to attend a Royal Event at the Historic St. John Theatre. Princesses and Princes were in attendance as the children crafted, painted portraits and got to take photos with their favorite characters.
St. John Theatre was pleased to have Missoula Children's Theatre production of SLEEPING BEAUTY starting Monday July 22, 2024 at 9am.
Among the roles that were cast are Sleeping Beauty; Scarella; Madame Butterfly; the King; the Queen; Spot; Fairies; Trolls; Palace Attendants; and Caterpillars. Students grades Kindergarten through 12th grade, were encouraged to audition.
The Missoula Children's Theatre touring productions are complete with costumes, scenery, and props. The MCT Tour Actor/Directors conducted rehearsals throughout the week from 9am to 2pm each day.
SLEEPING BEAUTY was presented on Saturday July 27 at St. John Theatre. The Missoula Children's Theatre residency in St. John the Baptist Parish is brought to you by St. John Theatre with support from The United Way..
SLEEPING BEAUTY--a Rock ‘n Roll Fable for the ages. This is definitely no sleeper!
St. John Theatre was delighted to bring Sister Act, as its summer musical 2024. The memorable and humorous musical comedy has captivated screens and hearts of audiences across the globe. The community got to see the hard-working cast bring this hilarious musical to life.
Sister Act is a feel-good musical comedy based on the 1992 film, set in the fabulous late-1970s Philadelphia. When disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder, she’s placed in protective custody where she won’t be found: a convent. Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with the rigid lifestyle of Mother Superior. Using her unique talents, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community, ultimately blowing her cover. Will Deloris and her newly found sisterhood be a match when the murderer shows up?
St. John Theatre held auditions for Sister Act, a musical comedy, in early April . for weeks the cast was hard at work with vocal, choral and acting rehearsals, all led by Director Lucas Harms and his production team. While this was his first production at St. John Theatre, Mr. Harms is no stranger to directing as he comes to us as the talented theatre teacher at Hahnville highschool.
Sterling Snowdy, President of SJT “This is community theatre as it should be: for the community, by the community.We have maintained live musical accompaniment for our summer shows since before 1981 when we began residency on West 4th Street in Reserve.”
Jacquel Cockerham who portrayed the role of Deloris Van Cartier “I grew up as the only girl in a house with two older brothers. I was a ball of energy and sass. A real handful everywhere I went - church, school, etc. As a child, my mom put me in tons of activities, along with theatre, and I fell in love with the stage. Those experiences made me connect so much with Deloris. We both just want to be seen, heard, and celebrated for our talents, not our faults…To find and do "that thing" that makes the soul ignite. I hope we all find it and live a fabulous life!”
“Aside from the fantastic music and fabulous dance numbers, my favorite part has been getting to know this cast. From the crew to Cab Driver to Deloris herself, everyone has brought such unique unmatching energy. Every single person has been a joy and watching everyone build their character has been lovely to watch. This has quickly become one of the best casts I've been a part of.” said Justin Rogers who portrayed the role of Police Detective Eddie Souther.
“This theatre is a gem. The community involvement and opportunity it provides is invaluable. It is so important both as a community of artists and as part of a larger cultural community. I hope you value its existence and its purpose. It is a place where blessings are created daily.” Lucas Harms, Director.
Sister Act was be performed July 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20 at 7:30pm and July 14th at 2:30pm.
St. John Theatre is a 501c3 not-for-profit community theatre located in St. John The Baptist Parish, Louisiana. St. John Theatre has been enriching St. John and the surrounding parishes since 1981 through quality theatrical productions and children’s programing.
From May 28 to June 8, St. John Theatre hosted a children's drama workshop at their theater located at 115 W. Fourth Street in Reserve. The workshop was open to children who had completed kindergarten through fifth grade.
The workshop culminated in a 40-minute musical production of Disney's Finding Nemo KIDS, a lively adaptation of the beloved 2003 Pixar film. With music by award-winning songwriters Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, the show follows the story of Marlin, an anxious clownfish, as he ventures across the ocean to rescue his son Nemo after he is captured and taken to Sydney. Along the way, Marlin is aided by memorable characters like the optimistic Dory, the laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the supportive Tank Gang.
Featuring songs such as "Just Keep Swimming," "Fish Are Friends Not Food," and "Go With the Flow," the production brought the vibrant underwater world of Finding Nemo to life on stage through the talented young actors from St. John the Baptist and surrounding parishes. The cast performed the show for the public on June 8th at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.
The cast featured young actors from St. John the Baptist and surrounding parishes.
Marlin (Matthew Lee), Dory (Charley Roth), Nigel (Ivy Hoffman), Spirit (Natalie Prevot), Jib (Tatum Becnel), Pearl-Student (Aria Armato), Sheldon-Student (Kelsey Seymour), Professor Ray (Braxton Claiborne), Pearl Parent (Averie Grace Armato), Sheldon Parent (Skylar Ursin), Tad (Connor Lacy), Bruce (Carsen Braud), Chum (Avery Ursin), Anchor (Ella Bullion), Scuba Mask Dancer (Averie Grace Armato), Nemo (Link Waller), Bubbles (Angelo Lawson), Bloat (Carmen Roussel), Gurgle (Jayci Stafford), Peach (Sarai Barnes), Gill (Isaiah Brooks), Young Sea Turtle 1 (Abigail Lacy), Seahorse 1 (Eleanor Juneau), Seahorse 2 (Caroline Roth), Crush (Abigail Cox), Squirt (Paige Scioneaux), Kai-Turtle (Tanae Gross), Breeze-Turtle (Brynlee Bivin), Sharks (Aria Armato, Kelsey Seymour, Braxton Claiborne, Averie Grace Armato, Skylar Ursin, Connor Lacy, Carsen Braud,Avery Ursin, Ella Bullion, Averie Grace Armato), Tank Gang (Link Waller, Angelo Lawson, Carmen Roussel,Jayci Stafford, Sarai Barnes, Isaiah Brooks), Searchers (Matthew Lee, Charley Roth, Ivy Hoffman,Natalie Prevot, Tatum Becnel), Shark Fish (Aria Armato, Kelsey Seymour, Braxton Claiborne,Skylar Ursin, Connor Lacy), Jellyfish (Abigail Lacy, Eleanor Juneau, Caroline Roth, Abigail Cox, Paige Scioneaux, Tanae Gross, Brynlee Bivin), Turtles (Abigail Lacy, Eleanor Juneau, Caroline Roth, Abigail Cox,Paige Scioneaux, Tanae Gross, Brynlee Bivin)
Veteran director Kristen Brooks directed the workshop and the production.Director (Kristen Brooks), Assistant Director (Sadie Kelly), Choreographer (Sara Brooks), Assistant Choreographer (Brody LeBlanc), Music/Audio (Charlee Palma, Andee Palma)Crafts (Celeste Toups), Youth Leaders (Jonah Brooks, Casey Crane, Jillian Cazes,Nathan Lee, Jylaan Jones, Katherine Cox) Set Design (Kristen Brooks, Jonah Brooks), Costumes (Kristen Brooks)
As the cultural hub of St. John Parish, St. John Theatre continues to be the venue where local schools produce their school productions.
Both the St. Charles Catholic Stagehands and the Riverside Academy Ovations recently brought productions to the theatre. We are always delighted and proud to see these young thespians bring stories to life on our historic stage.
Bravo to the casts and crews of both “The Absolutely True Story of King Arthur” (SCC Stagehands) and “Zombie Prom” (RA Ovations)
Since 1981, St. John Theatre has produced and staged over 70 high-quality dramas, comedies and musicals for the St. John the Baptist Parish and surrounding areas. We proudly continue our efforts of entertaining our community by presenting Sister Act the Musical as our Summer 2024 production.
Auditions were held at the theatre on W. 4th street recently, and we are pleased to announce the cast.
Deloris - Jacquel Dianne Cockerham
Mother Superior - Cindy Grosse
Mary Robert - Lee Ann Hovis
Mary Patrick - Malissa Lojszczyk
Mary Lazarus - Sara Brooks
Tina - Tatum Guillot
Michelle - Ashley Toups
Eddie - Justin Rogers
Curtis - Eric Johnson
Ohara - Matthew Cox
Mary Martin - Amarissa Missios
Mary Theresa - Madison Roussell
TJ - Jylaan Jones
Joey - Jonathan Dahl
Pablo - Adam Vedros
Ernie - Brody LeBlanc
Ensemble Karlie Wombles, Addie Melancon, Adelaide Merell Sauzer, Claudia Swift, Destiny Jilles, Shelley Dents, Andreanna Holland, Danita Marie Rayfield, Natalie Dantin, Jaden House, Tyron Martin, Harley Lapeyrolerie, Reghan Mae SanAndres, Colynn Duhe, Taelor Bailey, Timmy Gann
Sister Act is a feel-good musical comedy based on the 1992 film, set in the fabulous late-1970s Philadelphia. When disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder, she's placed in protective custody where she won't be found: a convent. Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with the rigid lifestyle of Mother Superior. Using her unique talents, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community, ultimately blowing her cover. Will Deloris and her newly found sisterhood be a match when the murderer shows up?
This production is being directed by Lucas Harms.
Show dates are July 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, & 20 at 7:30pm and July 14th at 2:30 pm.
Recently, members of the St. John Theatre along with staff from the St. John Parish Library System brought a fun and educational presentation celebrating Black History month to the SJT stage for students.
The St. John Theatre in Reserve, Louisiana, is set to present a heartwarming production of “Steel Magnolias,” a play that masterfully combines humor with the poignant realities of Southern life. With three performances slated to start Friday, February 23, audiences are invited to experience the timeless story that unfolds in a small-town Louisiana beauty salon. Written by American playwright Robert Harling, “Steel Magnolias” is inspired by the true story of his sister’s life and untimely death. The narrative spans three years and focuses on the lives of six local women who meet in the salon. Through their interactions, the play offers a glimpse into their resilience, strength, and the unbreakable bonds of community. The cast features Lauren Michel as Shelby, Cindy Grosse as M’lynn, Laura Smith as Truvy, Sara Brooks as Annelle, Connie Powell as Clariee, and Janell Napier as Ouiser. This production is a significant milestone for Danielle Ordoyne, marking her debut as a director, with Jamie Yarbrough contributing as the stage manager. Janell Napier expressed enthusiasm about the production, noting, “the show’s sassy quips and stories will resonate with people of all ages.” The performances are scheduled for Friday and Saturday at 7:30 P.M., and a matinee on Sunday at 2:30 P.M., with tickets available for $15. This event marks the third rendition of “Steel Magnolias” by the St. John Theatre, following previous stagings in 1994 and 2008. In a special gesture, Danielle Ordoyne has extended an invitation to cast members from past productions to attend a reunion at Sunday’s performance, celebrating the play’s enduring legacy within the community. Since its foundation in 1981, St. John Theatre has been a beacon of artistic expression in St. John the Baptist Parish, producing over 70 dramas, comedies, and musicals. Looking ahead, the theatre has announced a Children’s Summer Workshop from May 28 to June 8 and the much-anticipated summer 2024 musical, “Sister Act.” The upcoming “Steel Magnolias” production promises to be a memorable event, showcasing the talent and spirit of Reserve’s local theater community. It’s an opportunity for audiences to laugh, reflect, and appreciate the strength found in camaraderie and shared experiences.
By Timothy Holdiness
Read more at: https://www.lobservateur.com/2024/02/19/steel-magnolias-set-to-grace-st-john-theatres-stage-friday/
St. John Theatre is delighted to announce Sister Act, as its summer musical 2024. The memorable and humorous musical comedy has captivated screens and hearts of audiences across the globe. Join us as we continue our 40 + year tradition of bringing live theatrical entertainment to the river parishes. Now you have the opportunity to be a part of the unforgettable cast of Sister Act and bring the production to life!
Sister Act is a feel-good musical comedy based on the 1992 film, set in the fabulous late-1970s Philadelphia. When disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder, she’s placed in protective custody where she won’t be found: a convent. Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with the rigid lifestyle of Mother Superior. Using her unique talents, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community, ultimately blowing her cover. Will Deloris and her newly found sisterhood be a match when the murderer shows up?
Sister Act will be performed July 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20 at 7:30pm and July 14th at 2:30pm.
Sister Act will be directed by Lucas Harms.
Audition information coming soon! .
If you have any questions please email stjohntheatredirector@gmail.com or call/text our managing director Amy Wombles at (504) 676-4700.
Our area is so rich with tradition. This year they may be burning the Bon Fires a day early but we are sure that PaPa Noel will still find his way to the river parishes.
For a few years now Tyler Wombles and friends have built a bonfire on the levee in front of St. John Theatre. This year the bonfire is in the shape of an 18-wheeler. All volunteers and cast members are invited to join in the festivities. All members of the SJT family wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Since 1981 St. John Theatre has produced and staged over 70 high-quality dramas, comedies and musicals for the St. John the Baptist Parish and surrounding areas. We proudly continue our efforts of entertaining our community by presenting Steel Magnolias as our Spring 2024 production. Centered around a group of gossipy southern ladies in a small-town beauty parlor, the play is alternately hilarious and touching—and, in the end, deeply revealing of the strength and purposefulness which underlies the antic banter of its characters.
Auditions were held at the theatre on W. 4th street December 11 & 12th, and we are pleased to announce the cast.
Shelby - Lauren Michel
M’lynn - Cindy Grosse
Truvy - Laura Smith
Annelle - Sara Brooks
Clariee - Connie Powell
Ouiser - Janell Napier
The production Steel Magnolias is a stage play by American writer Robert Harling, and is based on his experience with his sister's death.
The plot of the play covers a 3-year span in the lives of the six women as the action is set in Truvy’s beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, where all the ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done. Helped by her eager new assistant, Annelle, the outspoken, wise-cracking Truvy dispenses shampoos and free advice to the town’s rich curmudgeon, Ouiser, an eccentric millionaire, Miss Clairee, who has a raging sweet tooth; and the local social leader, M’Lynn, whose daughter, Shelby, is about to marry a “good ole boy.”
This production is being directed by Danielle Ordoyne.
Show dates will be February 23, 24 at 7:30pm & 25th at 2:30pm.
The weekend of December 8, 9 , & 10th St. John Theatre brought to stage a very different adaptation of a classic Christmas tale. It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play.
Directed by Mike Brooks, set in the 1940’s this play told the story of George Bailey during a live radio broadcast. With actors voicing different characters and making their own sound effects for a live studio audience.
On Tuesday November 7th we were honored to host a special community event. The Marine Forces Reserve Concert Band brought a special patriotic concert to St. John Theatre. This event was free to the public and all members of the community were invited to attend. We were thrilled that residents of the Southeast Louisiana Veterans home were also able to attend.
We want to thank Mr. Spuddy Faucheaux for cooking his famous jambalaya for our performers pre concert meal and Oak Alley Plantations Restaurant for providing dessert for them.
On the night of October 28th 2023 St. John Theatre hosted its first ever Ghost Hunting Workshop. Led by Mr. Shane Brooks and Mrs. Amy Wombles, attendees were able to experience something out of the normal for our patrons.
With a history that spans back to 1931 out Historic Theatre is bound to have some spirits walking the isles and stage. Through the years we have had countless people tell staff that they have seen or heard unexplained things while in the building.
Mr. Brooks and Mrs. Wombles gave attendees a history of our building and had special guests tell them stories of experiences they had while working on productions. They also showed them how to use ghost hunting equipment and led them through parts of the building where they collected evidence of spirits.
Members of the board along with volunteers spent some time recently, getting the Historic Theatre ready for a busy Fall Season.
October 28th - SJT Kids Club Welcome event and Halloween Party
October 28th - St. John Theatre Ghost Hunting Workshop
November 7th - US Marine Reserve Forces Concert Band Community Concert
December 8, 9, 10 - It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
December 9 - Holiday Craft Fair
December 11 & 12 - Steel Magnolias Auditions
Thank you to everyone who came out to help and we hope to see everyone at all of our upcoming events!
When Al “Lil Fats” Jackson takes the stage, audiences are convinced that the legendary Fats Domino has entered the room. The south Louisiana native is a master of New Orleans rhythm and blues and best known for his tribute to the legendary Fats Domino.
Instilled with a love of music from an early age Al grew up listening to the classic New Orleans R&B and decided as a very young child that Fats Domino was his favorite artist. Inspired by the music that his grandfather would bring home from the jukebox at his grandmother's club Al was driven to play several different instruments during his high school years and later became a professional musician.
Winning over not just audiences but even Fats Domino himself with his talent and musical tribute to the Legendary Fats Domino.
Al returned to St. John Theatre on October 7th at 7:30pm.
For the last several months, professional actors Savannah Greiveldinger and Jackie Wiles have driven across the country in a little red truck packed to the roof with everything needed to put on a show.
They’ve got costumes, lights, sets, scripts and a whole bunch of props. All they need are the actors.
Those they find in towns big and small, like Reserve.
Greiveldinger and Wiles found a talented group of St. John the Baptist Parish actors this week, which will present two performances of “Cinderella” at 2:30 and 6 p.m. Saturday August 5th at the St. John Theatre, 115 W. 4th St. in Reserve. Admission was $5.
It’s all part of the Missoula Children’s Theatre troupe’s mission to introduce theater and the arts to youngsters in communities around the world through a series of weeklong workshops for kids. In a matter of five days the team holds auditions, casts the show, teaches the parts, builds the sets, produces a pair of shows and, hopefully, plants a seed.
The mission is to get them to enjoy the arts and build life skills. The show is not the end goal. It’s the process of how we got there. Did we work as a team? Did we listen and follow directions? Did we learn to read a little better? Did we build some self-confidence in our skills? That’s what’s important.
Reserve has been a regular stop on the tour, presenting such productions as “Rapunzel,” “The Snow Queen” and “Pinocchio.”
For more information on our children’s programing please contact Managing Director Amy Wombles at 504.676.4700
St. John Theatre is excited to introduce you to the cast and crew of our summer 2023 musical production, FootLoose the Musical.
Thespians from St. John Theatre were honored to again help out our friend Dubi at the St. John The Baptist Library with the summer program. Raynia Johnson, Karli Wombles and Amy Wombles traveled to all branches of the library system as Mother Goose and her friends helped Dubi bring stories to life for the summer program children.
Cast members from this summers musical production of Footloose the Musical visited each branch of the St. john The Baptist Library system this week, teaching the children in the summer program the iconic Footloose dance. Its always a great time to visit the library and we can’t wait to have them come and see the production in July!
