As preparations continue for the fall theater season in Grants Pass, Clarion Theatre has begun development of its 2026 production, Two Great Musicals, One Great Show, a unique performance that will bring two original one-act musicals to the stage during a single evening of live theater.
The production combines two distinctly different stories designed to offer audiences contrasting theatrical experiences while celebrating original musical storytelling. One production explores themes of humor and lighthearted entertainment, while the other presents a thoughtful drama centered on faith, hope and perseverance. Together, the performances are intended to showcase the creative range of local theater while highlighting the work of original playwrights and composers.
Behind the scenes, members of the production team are already immersed in planning every aspect of the performances, including music, choreography, costumes, staging and set construction. During a recent read-through, directors and crew members collaborated on creative concepts that will give each musical its own visual identity, allowing audiences to experience two separate artistic worlds within one production.
The evening will feature In Time, written by Maxwell Bruhn, alongside Fairhaven, written by Clarion founder John Sleadd. Although both productions share themes rooted in enduring values and faith, each tells its story in a distinctly different way, creating an evening that moves between comedy and drama while exploring the human experience from different perspectives.
For Sleadd, this year’s production also represents a personal milestone. Having previously written and composed several original musicals, he will direct one of his own works for the first time as he leads Fairhaven to the stage. His experience as a playwright, composer and set designer will shape the creative vision for the production while guiding the performance from script to opening night.
Director Sharon Giddings will oversee In Time, bringing her own perspective to a story that explores loss, healing and finding hope through faith. According to Clarion, the musical presents “a modern-day narrative about hope, grief and moving forward in faith,” offering audiences a thoughtful and emotionally driven performance.
The organization has assembled an experienced production team to support the project. Jacquelyn Cease will serve as producer with Steve Roby as assistant producer. Ron Strom has been named music director, while Sheree Mathews will oversee stage management. Erin Law will direct choreography, Michelle Spohn will lead costume design, and Zymri Anderson will coordinate props. Together, the team will spend the coming months transforming the scripts into fully staged productions ahead of their October debut.
Clarion is also inviting members of the community to become part of the production. Auditions will be held on July 31 from 6 to 9 p.m. and Aug. 1 from 2 to 5 p.m. at The Hivve, located at 164 SE G Street in Grants Pass. Individuals interested in performing on stage, regardless of previous experience, are encouraged to learn more about audition opportunities through the organization.
Community members who prefer to work behind the scenes are also being welcomed. Volunteers play an important role in nearly every aspect of a theater production, from building sets and managing props to assisting with costumes, technical operations and stage support. Clarion is encouraging longtime audience members to consider becoming directly involved by joining the production crew.
“If you’ve been a Clarion supporter from the audience side, consider delving into the performance element, by either auditioning or volunteering for our crew!” the organization said in its announcement.
Performances of Two Great Musicals, One Great Show are scheduled for the evenings of Oct. 16, 17 and 23, with matinee performances planned for Oct. 18 and 24 at the Grants Pass Performing Arts Center. Ticket information will be announced at a later date.
In addition to seeking performers and volunteers, Clarion is asking residents who wish to help sustain local community theater to consider making financial contributions toward the production. Donations assist with expenses ranging from costumes and scenery to music, lighting and other production costs that make original live theater possible.
As rehearsals begin and creative work continues throughout the summer, the production represents another opportunity for Southern Oregon artists, musicians, technicians and volunteers to collaborate on an original performance while giving local audiences the chance to experience two new musicals created by independent playwrights. With months of preparation still ahead before opening night, Clarion’s latest production reflects the continuing role that community theater plays in bringing together creativity, volunteerism and live entertainment in Grants Pass.