Lightner shared how Guys and Dolls became the first formal collaboration between Dixon Stage Left and the Dixon Historic Theatre. The production grew out of conversations between the organizations about partnering on a major musical, ultimately selecting the beloved Broadway classic because of its energy, recognizable music, and strong appeal for community audiences.
With rehearsals already well underway, the cast has completed blocking, choreography, and music rehearsals and has entered the final stage of polishing the production. As performers continue developing their characters, the show is coming together for its July performances on the Historic Theatre stage.
Guys and Dolls will be presented July 10-12, with evening performances on Friday and Saturday and a Sunday afternoon matinee. Tickets are available through the Dixon Historic Theatre website.
The conversation then shifted to an inspiring story behind Six: Teen Edition. Highley explained how the project began with a simple idea while painting sets during last year’s production of Footloose. She and three friends envisioned producing the musical themselves and soon discovered a teen edition was available.
Instead of waiting for someone else to make it happen, the group launched its own production company, Sister Stage Productions, and spent the next year raising more than $3,000 through local business donations and their own earnings from working at the theater. The funds covered licensing, scripts, costumes, and set expenses needed to bring the production to life.
The young producers also decided their success should benefit the community. Twenty-five percent of the show’s proceeds will be donated to the YWCA Survivor Services program, allowing the production to support an important local cause while allowing young performers to shine.
Schwartz said joining the project as director has been a rewarding experience. Although it is her first time directing, she has watched the cast’s enthusiasm and commitment transform the production into a polished performance. With much of the cast already deeply invested in creating the show, rehearsals have moved quickly, and the production has continued to gain momentum.
Highley, who serves as both choreographer and performer, discussed balancing multiple responsibilities while portraying Catherine of Aragon. She said one of the most rewarding parts of the experience has been building friendships with the cast and embracing the unique style and energy that has made Six such a popular musical.
Adding to the production’s family atmosphere, the cast features three sets of sisters, allowing performers to rehearse together even outside scheduled practices.
Six: Teen Edition will take the stage July 24-25 at the Dixon Historic Theatre, with tickets also available through the theater’s website.
Lightner also highlighted what’s ahead for Dixon Stage Left beyond the summer musicals. The organization is preparing for A Winter’s Tale, a collaboration with Sauk Valley Community College that will once again be performed outdoors in August. The free Shakespeare production promises a fresh, modern interpretation designed to appeal to longtime theater fans and newcomers alike.
The episode also included information about Dixon Stage Left’s ongoing raffle for a Taylor Swift guitar, which concludes with the closing weekend of Guys and Dolls.
Listeners also learned about a special giveaway sponsored by The Radar. Ten pairs of tickets to Guys and Dolls are available through The Radar’s online giveaway page, giving community members another opportunity to enjoy one of the summer’s biggest local theater productions.
From established community theater organizations to ambitious young performers creating opportunities of their own, the episode highlighted the creativity, collaboration, and passion fueling the Sauk Valley’s thriving performing arts community this summer.
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