The upcoming production combines theater, history, and community storytelling through a play that explores the origins of PFLAG while blending heartfelt moments with humor and familiar characters.
The production is scheduled for June 26th and 27th at the Next Picture Show in Dixon, while renovations continue at Dixon Stage Left’s historic home. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m., with tickets available through the organization’s website.
Kaufman explained that the production was selected as part of the organization’s annual Pride Month programming. The play centers on the story behind the creation of PFLAG, following the experiences of a mother and her son while incorporating dream sequences featuring iconic maternal figures from popular culture and history.
Unlike traditional productions, reader’s theater allows actors to perform directly from scripts rather than memorizing lines. The format requires minimal staging, costumes, and set pieces, making it more accessible for performers who may not have the time to commit to a full theatrical schedule.
Kaufman said the abbreviated rehearsal process makes reader’s theater an attractive option for both newcomers and experienced performers. Rehearsals typically last only about a week and a half, focusing on character development and performance rather than memorization.
For Clark, Everybody’s Favorite Mothers marks his first theater production. He shared that he had long been interested in performing but found it difficult to commit to a traditional production schedule while balancing personal and business responsibilities.
After opening a store with his wife, Clark said the shorter commitment of reader’s theater provided an ideal opportunity to finally step onto the stage. He described the experience as a perfect way for newcomers to become involved in community theater.
Whaley, who serves as Dixon Stage Left’s social media manager and graphic designer, is taking on assistant directing duties for the first time. Having worked alongside Kaufman since her school years, Whaley said stepping into the role is an exciting next chapter in her theater journey.
Kaufman said mentoring emerging theater leaders has been one of the rewarding aspects of her work with Stage Left, noting that Whaley’s years of experience with the organization made her a natural fit for the position.
Beyond the upcoming production, Dixon Stage Left continues to make progress on renovations to its historic building. The organization has spent months addressing infrastructure upgrades, including plumbing and electrical work, while uncovering unexpected surprises in the more than 130-year-old structure.
Among those discoveries was an original tin ceiling hidden above a drop ceiling. While visually appealing, the tin posed acoustic challenges for performances and required extensive work to remove and restore portions of the building.
Kaufman said the theater’s team is optimistic that the renovation process will accelerate as more visible improvements begin to take shape. The organization has already relocated offices upstairs and is developing additional rehearsal, costume, and prop spaces.
The summer season remains busy for Dixon Stage Left. Upcoming productions include a collaboration with the Dixon Historic Theatre on Guys and Dolls in July and an outdoor Shakespeare production of A Winter’s Tale in August at Sauk Valley Community College.
The Shakespeare production will once again be offered free to the public, continuing the organization’s commitment to making theater accessible to the community.
To support fundraising efforts during renovations, Dixon Stage Left has launched a series of raffle campaigns. One current fundraiser features a signed Taylor Swift guitar accompanied by certification, with proceeds helping support the theater’s continued growth and restoration efforts.
As Stage Left moves closer to reopening its renovated space, Kaufman expressed excitement about welcoming audiences back and showcasing the transformation of one of Dixon’s historic buildings.
Tickets for Everybody’s Favorite Mothers and additional information about upcoming performances can be found on the Dixon Stage Left website, dixonstageleft.org.
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