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Summerset Theatre will open its second show of the season with “Bright Star,” on Wednesday,  July 31.

Inspired by a true story and featuring the Tony-nominated score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, “Bright Star” first opened on Broadway in 2016. The musical tells a sweeping tale of love and redemption set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and 1940s.

The story centers on literary editor Alice Murphy, who meets a young soldier home from World War II and who awakens her longing for the child she once lost.

Alice sets out on a journey to understand her past and in doing so finds the power to transform both of their lives.

“Bright Star” is the second show of the season, following “Annie” that ran in June. It may seem ironic that both shows, staged during the 1920s, 30s and 40s, would create a theme for current times: looking toward a  bright future and better tomorrows.

No matter what circumstance people may find themselves in, the idea of hope  is timeless.

“It has been such a pleasure working with some of the most talented people in the surrounding area to bring  this story to the stage,” said Director Jake Gustine. “It is incredibly fulfilling to have such a strong theater community here in Austin, and I’m very proud to be a part of it.” 

Performance Dates

July 31, Aug. 1, 2, 3 at 7 p.m.

Aug. 4 at 2 p.m.

Frank W. Bridges Theatre, Riverland Community College

$20 Adults | $12 Students

For more information & tickets, visit: www.summersettheatre.org

 Cast Members

Alice Murphy – Rachel Cole

Jimmy Ray Dobbs – Travis Kasper

Margo Crawford – Jannel Howard

Billy Cane – Andre Benedict

Mayor Josiah Dobbs – John Deyo

Daddy Cane – Geoff Smith

Daddy Murphy – Lucas Johnson

Mama Murphy – Lia Culbert

Lucy Grant – Rebecca Couch

Daryl Ames – Jake Gustine

Max – Antonio Morales

Florence – Morgan Dickman

Edna – Tehya Orr

Annabelle – Kylie Pape

Stanford – James Zschunke

Dr. Norquist – Kim Potter

Government Clerk – Kim Zerke

Dancer – Ali Dublin

Spirit – Hanna Zerke

Line Dance Barker – Katie Hunerdosse

Station Master – Carrie Moore

Orchestra Members

Conductor/Keyboard – Brian Johnson

Keyboard – Rachael Sippel

Bass – Cameron Davis

Percussion – Blake Zimmerli

Guitar – Rod Wiese

Mandolin – Mark Dixon

Banjo/Guitar – Emma Evans-Peck

Violin/Viola – Jacob Crosby

Fiddle – Brian Christensen/Sue Radloff

Cello – Renae Clark

Creative Team

Director – Jake Gustine

Musical Direction – Brian Johnson

Technical Director – John Deyo

Stage Manager – Jennifer Weibrand

Choreography – Marny Rohr

Costume Design – Madlain Vander