24-hour theater project sees surge of young actors

November 11, 2025

By Bill Kilpatrick

On Nov. 8 the Bancroft Village Playhouse, in conjunction with Tweed and Company, hosted the annual 24-hour theater project. The 24-hour theater project has been running for close to 25 years, and provides an opportunity for those who have always wanted to experience theater to learn the ins-and-outs of what it takes to produce a live theater production in 24 hours. Participants could learn about set production, stage managing, play writing, costumes, lighting, sound, directing, choreography, and of course acting.

The project began at 7 p.m. on Nov. 7. Those who signed up to be a playwright had to complete a short play before 5 a.m. and submit it to the conveners. It was at this point that the directors, actors, stage managers, sound and lighting technicians, costume, prop, and set design people took over to help bring the plays to life for the public showcase at 7 p.m. the following evening.

This year saw 23 actors participate in eight plays that covered some serious topics such as homelessness, individualism, and reconciliation in two short plays entitled “Whatever Stephanie” and “Letters of peace,” to more upbeat and comical productions such as “Singing in the rain – Bancroft style” and “History of dogs.” According to Chris Houston, who had the double duty of being master of ceremonies and the sound technician, it was a special year as the 24-hour theater project saw a drastic increase in the number of youth participating in the project.

The 24-hour theater project is always looking for new people who are eager to learn about theater. All you have to do is bring $10 and sign up. As the description states there is “no experience necessary and all are welcome.”