By Sentinel Staff
The Town Players of New Canaan will open a new production of Charlotte’s Web on December 4 at the Powerhouse Theatre in Waveny Park, bringing the classic story to the stage with a multigenerational cast of 27 local performers. The play, written by Joseph Robinette with guidance from author E.B. White, adapts the book the Children’s Literature Association named “the best American children’s book of the past two hundred years,” according to the organization.
The production centers on Wilbur the pig and his friendship with Charlotte, a spider whose devotion shapes the story’s emotional arc. The Town Players describe the show as a reminder of the strength found in community and loyalty. Co-directors Nova Hall of Darien and Amy Simmons of Port Chester said, “Our goal is to bring this story to life with warmth and sincerity. Our cast is made up of 27 local performers across generations who have poured their hearts into bringing this story to life. It’s a true community effort — and we can’t wait to share it with everyone. Charlotte’s Web is about finding family in community and friendship, which is exactly what the Town Players of New Canaan stands for.”
The production includes performers from across the region. Representing New Canaan are Wes Benenson; Isabel Brookes; Chris Cluett; Penelope Dulmaine; Elise, Paige and Conrad Forsland; James, Matthew and George Gutelius; Sophie Hernandez; Izzy and Miles Langrick; Sydney McCaughey; and Charlotte Roberts. Additional cast members include Lenny Carlucci; Adalin and Adam Coale; Dariana Olivas; Jenifer Prescott; and Mathew Young of Norwalk. Erin Sullivan of Greenwich, Zachary Runestad of Wilton, Dæce Vasseur-Sutton of Weston, Kim Wood of Stamford, and Ana De la Pava and Joe Niola of South Salem round out the ensemble.
The Town Players have built the production around detailed sets and costumes intended to re-create the atmosphere of a barnyard. Set design and construction are led by Joel Reynolds of New Canaan and his stage crew. Patricia Spugani of New Canaan handles lighting design, and Marin Hillis of Rockland serves as stage manager. The production is produced by Sara Langrick of New Canaan.
The run features evening performances at 7 p.m. on December 4–6 and December 11–12, with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. on December 7 and 14. The show runs 95 minutes with an intermission. Tickets are available at www.tpnc.org
