Aug.
16–Theatre of the Republic kicks off its 2009-10 season with performances of “Big River,” which was Main Street Theater’s premiere performance in 1999. The 10th anniversary of Main Street Theatre runs in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of Theatre of the Republic, the official community theater of Horry County. “Theatre of the Republic has been performing theater in Horry County for 40 years,” Executive Director Tim McGhee said. “Performances were held at Coastal Carolina University and other venues throughout Conway and Myrtle Beach before the building was purchased in 1999.” Theatre of the Republic’s regular seasons run from August-June however, the company has been doing specials and additional shows in honor of the 40th anniversary since last January. “Normally we do six shows a year and that’s it,” McGhee said. “Last year we did four extra insert shows including ‘Illusions on Main Street’ and ‘Alice in Wonderland’ for the 40th anniversary.” The 40th Anniversary Gala, which is a gathering of theater supporters, will be held Oct. 24 at Pendleton Place in Tabor City, N.C. Tickets are still available for the event. In addition to “Big River,” the season’s shows include “Civil War,” which opens in October, and “Holiday on Main Street” in December, “Noises Off” in February, “Cinderella” in March and “The Producers,” which closes the season in June. “The annual holiday show, ‘Holiday on Main Street,’ began about seven years ago,” McGhee said.
“The show is different every year, and proceeds go to charity. It’s the audience’s favorite show. It’s family-oriented, and one year a family of 12 was in it.”