MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Family Community Theatre is bringing a classic American story to the stage this weekend with its production of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.
Directed by April Basgall, the play is based on the well-known novel by Mark Twain and follows the mischievous adventures of Tom Sawyer as he grows up along the Mississippi River in the 1840s. The stage adaptation highlights key moments from the story, including the famous fence-painting scene, a graveyard encounter, and the discovery of hidden treasure.
Performances are scheduled for Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 3 p.m., running April 23–26.
The production features a cast of around 30 performers, nearly double the size of a typical show for the group. Cast members range in age from about 8 to 60, reflecting a strong mix of youth and experienced actors.
Samuel Basgall, who plays Huckleberry Finn, described his character as adventurous and rebellious, adding that he enjoys portraying Huck’s carefree personality on stage. He said his interest in theater began through a summer camp and has since grown into participation in about 20 productions.
Director April Basgall said casting focused heavily on matching personalities and characteristics to roles, noting that about 60 people auditioned for the production before narrowing it down to the final cast.
While the play follows the general storyline of Twain’s novel, Basgall said the adaptation condenses the story to focus on several key adventures due to time and staging limitations.
Tickets range from $7 to $15 depending on age, with a buy-one-get-one-free deal available for Thursday’s performance. Tickets can be purchased in advance at local businesses, online, or at the door one hour before showtime.
Organizers say the production offers a family-friendly opportunity to experience a timeless coming-of-age story brought to life by local performers.