The burning of the historic Maplewood Barn in April 2010 devastated the local community. The “fire of suspicious origin” destroyed not only the barn, but many of the Maplewood Barn Theatre’s tools, lumber, costumes, props and set pieces as well.
Almost a year later, the theater that performed there since 1973 continues to run.
The theatre, located in Nifong Park, is now an outdoor community theater filled with local charm.
“I think a big part of it is that people you know are in the cast, so you can see them in ways that you don’t ordinarily see them,” actor and director Byron Scott said.
Byron Scott has worked for the theatre for more than 20 years as both an actor and a director, participating in around 30 shows. He’s also served multiple stints on the Maplewood Barn Theatre Board of Directors.
The theatre usually performs four shows per May to September season: one comedy, one drama, one Shakespeare and one musical. Occasionally, and more often as of late, it puts on special shows, such as the midwinter “John Brown’s Body” performances that were hosted at the Boone County Historical Society museum this January.
Additionally, it also occasionally puts on plays written by local playwrights.
“We are the first community theater in Columbia, and we remain the only outdoor community theater,” said Michael Scott, President of the Maplewood Barn Theatre Board of Directors.
Despite being a community theater, not all of the theatre’s productions are child-friendly. Nonetheless, Byron insists it’s a great place to have a relaxing family night.
“It’s a beautiful place to go, sit under the stars and watch a play or a musical,” Byron Scott said.
Michael Scott said that the theatre’s musicals are consistently the most popular shows, drawing up to 150 audience members per night.
This year’s musical will be “Return to the Forbidden Planet” by Bob Carlton in August. Other shows this season include “Glengarry Glen Ross” in May, “The Odd Couple” in June and “The Merchant of Venice” in July.
Those seeking to act or direct in a performance this year may find more information at www.maplewoodbarn.com.
“We love new people to come out and audition,” director Molly Dodge said. “It’s very easy to get involved in it.”
Dodge will be directing “The Odd Couple” this year and also serves on the Board of Directors.
Tickets for nonmusical shows are for $8 for adults and $6 for seniors. For musicals, the cost is $10 for adults and $8 for seniors. Admittance is free for children under 10.
Plans to rebuild the burned barn itself are currently heading to city council. With or without the barn, though, The Maplewood Barn Theatre’s shows are sure to go on.