Matthews Opera House

Snow White and the Seven Endings
2024-06-22 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Denver)
WHO: FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND FAVORITE AUNTS (AND UNCLES) + THE COMMUNITY
WHAT: CHILDREN’S THEATER CAMP PERFORMANCE
WHERE: MATTHEW’S OPERA HOUSE THEATER
WHEN: JUNE 22 & 23 AT 2:00PM
WHY: TO WATCH THESE CUTE KIDDOS PERFORM!
HOW: Tickets may be purchased ONLINE – matthewsopera.com VIA PHONE – (605) 642-7973, IN-PERSON – Matthews Gallery 612 N. Main Street, Spearfish ADULTS $10 YOUTH $5

HEIGH-HO, HEIGH-HO OFF TO THEATER CAMP WE GO!
It’s been longer than a hot minute since we all sat in front of an extra-large-Uhaul-box-sized television to watch the original “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” but I’m sure we could mostly retell it perfectly. Who has time for that though? Why not have the children of 2024 tell us this tale in a witty and hysterical recall of one of our favorite fairytales? Introducing “Snow White and the Seven Endings”. Come one, come all, to witness princes, pail-faced mirrors, and seven (slightly) delusional dwarves retell the tale from their own memory.

When the seven forest dwellers reminisce about their recent run-in with a royal runaway, they each have a different take on how the story unfolds and who the real hero is. But which is the real ending? The only thing they agree about is that the Prince shouldn’t get the credit! Laughter abounds as each of the seven forest dwellers takes their turn sharing their recollection of what happened to Snow White once she came to their cottage. Which will be your favorite? The mysterious “And Then There Were Seven,” the melodramatic “Perilous Plight of Miss Snow White,” or the slapstick “Snow Alone – Lost in the Woods”? Naturally, everyone loves the action-adventure “Spindiana Jones and the Apple of Doom!” There’s also the Shakespearean “Mid-Snow White’s Dream” and the hysterical interpretive dance, “The Hunt-Cracker,” along with the classic retelling.

THE ACTORS
GRIMMLY
CLUMSY
DARING
PLUCKY
SCARLETT
TWINKLE TOES
SPINDIANA JONES
SNOW WHITE
EVIL QUEEN
HAG
MIRROR
HUNTSMAN
PRINCE

ABOUT FROELICH YOUNG ACTORS GUILD SUMMER THEATER CAMP
Each sizzlin’ summer in Spearfish, The Matthew’s Opera House and Arts Center invites students entering grades 2 through 12 to a camp that encompasses the imagination. Let your littles take the stage for a week of wonder in the historic Matthews Opera House. Starting the day with Grades 7-12, the morning is filled with heroics, humor, and theater experience handed-down from our own amazing Matthews Mentors! Then Grades 2-6 take the floor from 1-4pm learning about our super secret theater tricks and being awe-inspired galore! A registration fee of $50 counts towards costumes, crafting sets and scenery, and inspirational instruction for three whole weeks of fun. Ask Matthews staff about the option for older kids to work off their registration fee by helping us keep law and order in the Little’s Group for the afternoon session.

CHATEAU LA ROACH
2024-06-22 19:00 - 21:00
WHO: HUMANS WHO LOVE HUMOR!
WHAT: KNOCK YOU OFF YOUR ROCKER ROACH COMEDY
WHERE: MATTHEW’S OPERA HOUSE THEATER
WHEN: June 22 & 23 at 7 pm
WHY: GET A GRUESOME GLIMPSE OF A ROACH INFESTATION THAT’S RIDICULOUSLY FUNNY!
HOW: Tickets may be purchased
ONLINE – matthewsopera.com
VIA PHONE – (605) 642-7973,
IN-PERSON – Matthews Gallery 612 N. Main Street, Spearfish
ADULTS $10
YOUTH $5

READY TO HAVE A ROACH-SLAPPING GOOD TIME?
Come to the beautiful Château Laroche for a weekend get-away, where you’ll be greeted by a friendly host of… cockroaches!! Crawling with slapstick humor and circus-like stage action, this award-winning comic farce will take you through a weekend in the lives of François and Mimi Laroche, the French proprietors of the château on the shores of a peaceful American lake.
The owners are horrified to discover the enormity of their cockroach problem as they prepare for a big weekend of visitors. Why do the cockroaches have to appear just when they’re trying to make a good impression on a famed travel writer?! On top of that, they’ve learned the health inspector is making a surprise visit — disguised as a typical guest! Could the inspector be one of the young honeymooners? The wealthy widow or her hypnotist? The British bicyclist? The manager of a bratty child star? François launches an all-out war on the creepy-crawly creatures as the disgruntled staff members struggle to hide the pesky problem from the hotel guests. Even with the help of a zealous exterminator, Roskel T. Goomey, the roaches quickly and hysterically adapt to the chemical assault and begin to grow bigger, while the supposed health inspector hallucinates after mistakenly using the toxic bug powder on his spaghetti, thinking it was Parmesan cheese! You’ll have a foot-stomping, roach-slapping good time with this eccentric and eclectic cast of characters!
With lively and fast-paced dialogue and great opportunities for physical humor, the play provides a hilarious look at the price humans pay for attempting to control nature and is sure to delight audiences of all ages! And don’t worry, staging the cockroaches is not a pesky problem at all!

CREDIT: PIONEER DRAMA SERVICE

ROSE HILL CEMETERY WALK
2024-06-24 18:30 - 20:30
WHO: Matthews actors portray characters from the past to delight you with their life stories.
WHAT: ACTORS RESURRECT HISTORY IN AN ENGAGING WALKING TOUR
WHERE: ROSE HILL CEMETERY
WHEN: June 24 & 25 at 6:30 PM
WHY: TO ENLIGHTEN AND ENTERTAIN BY ENACTING THE PAST
HOW: MEET US AT ROSE HILL CEMETERY FOR AN ENJOYABLE VISIT TO OUR HISTORIC PAST
Participants should plan to arrive at the cemetery 30 minutes early to allow for parking and walking to the gathering area. Attendants will be available at the gate of the cemetery to assist with directions and parking. From the parking area, the public will be directed along paved walkways to appropriate
gravesites for these presentations of historic interest.

TIME TO DIG UP SOME DOWN-RIGHT DRAMATIC TALES
The Matthews Opera House is excited to announce the return of the Rose Hill Cemetery Walk. Amidst the stunning hilltop views of Spearfish, Matthews performers will set the stage outdoors at the Rose Hill Cemetery in Spearfish on June 23 and June 24 at 6:30 pm. Actors dressed in period-appropriate costumes will resurrect early settlers graveside, presenting their personal stories of antics and heroics. Audiences will be entertained by several characters known as “76ers,” persons who came to the Black Hills during the gold rush, one of which who unknowingly shared his campfire beans and flapjacks with
the legendary Calamity Jane. Patrons will also learn about the first person buried at Rose Hill Cemetery, meet the retiring blacksmith that became the first Spearfish postmaster, and listen to “Samson of the Black Hills” tell of his Herculean efforts to complete the large stone barn still standing on Red Water Road.

THEATER RUNNING IN PLACE 2024
2024-09-15 14:00 - 17:00
WHO: Come one, Come all enjoy our Community this Fall!
WHAT: Theater Running in Place
WHERE: In the Matthews Opera House Theater.
WHEN: September 15, 2:00 pm
WHY: Community, Connection, and Creativity? Why NOT?
Our special matinee performance of “Theater Running in Place” presents all the fun and variety of Theater on the Run in a single venue: the Matthews Opera House Theater. Our actors will perform a series of five playlets on the Matthews stage with appetizers available between each show in the fireplace room.

A sporting chance:
Ticket sales begin on August 15 at 10 am. This will be strictly enforced. Tickets sell out quickly and we want to ensure every patron has an equal opportunity to get theirs.

A little advice for groups:
If attending the performance with a group, we recommend purchasing all tickets in one transaction to ensure seats are available to accommodate the entire party. If you must purchase them separately, please pay careful attention to your “starting” location to make sure the whole party “starts their run” in the same venue. Due to seating limitations, we are unable to make changes once your purchase is complete.

THE SHOWS THAT WILL HAVE US ON OUR TOES
“ALMOST MAIN” by John Cariani Directors: Charlotte Fladmoe, Matt Woodard, Cami Dohman, Lisa Myhre, Shirlene Joseph
A woman carries her heart, broken into nineteen pieces, in a small paper bag. A man shrinks to half his former size, after losing hope in love. A couple keep the love they have given each other in large red bags, or compress the mass into the size of a diamond. These playful and surreal experiences are commonplace in the world of John Cariani’s Almost, Maine, where on one deeply cold and magical Midwinter Night, the citizens of Almost — not organized enough for a town, too populated for a wilderness — experience the life-altering power of the human heart. Relationships end, begin, or change beyond recognition, as strangers become friends, friends become lovers, and lovers turn into strangers. Propelled by the mystical energy of the aurora borealis and populated with characters who are humorous, plain-spoken, thoughtful, and sincere, Almost, Maine is a series of loosely connected tales about love, each with a compelling couple at its center, each with its own touch of sorcery.

A CHRISTMAS STORY
2024-12-13 19:00 - 21:00
WHO: Entertainment on your Christmas list this year? Come Here! Sure to be a festive Family fun night!
WHAT: A CHRISTMAS STORY
WHERE: Matthews Opera House Theater 612 N. Main Street, Spearfish
WHEN: December 13, 14 at 7 pm | December 15 at 2 pm | December 17, 20, 21 at 7 pm | December 22 at 2 pm

WHY: Since boredom gets tongues stuck to poles, make going to a show one of your holiday goals!
HOW: Tickets may be purchased:
ONLINE – matthewsopera.com
VIA PHONE – (605) 642-7973,
IN-PERSON – Matthews Gallery 612 N. Main Street, Spearfish
ADULTS $20; YOUTH $10

THIS IS GOING TO BE ALMOST AS MAGICAL AS A LEG LAMP…
Humorist Jean Shepherd’s memoir of growing up in the midwest in the 1940s follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. Ralphie pleads his case before his mother, his teacher and even Santa Claus himself at Higbee’s Department Store. The consistent response: “You’ll shoot your eye out!” All the elements from the beloved motion picture are here, including the family’s temperamental exploding furnace; Scut Farkas, the school bully; the boys’ experiment with a wet tongue on a cold lamppost; the Little Orphan Annie decoder pin; Ralphie’s father winning a lamp shaped like a woman’s leg in a net stocking; Ralphie’s fantasy scenarios and more. A Christmas Story is destined to become a theatrical holiday perennial.
“A Christmas Story is still … one of the more enchanting ways to be transported to a world beyond our own. Yet it also serves to remind us how lucky we are to live a culturally rich life … and Philip Grecian’s thoughtful stage adaptation preserves the old … references.” —Plain Dealer
“Classics bloom quickly in modern times … you don’t have to have grown up with 9-year-old Ralphie Parker and his ache for an air rifle under the tree to think of A Christmas Story as a Christmas must. And [this] version is just as kindly and just as cockeyed as A Christmas Story is meant to be.” —Orlando Sentinel
“Grecian’s script retains Shepherd’s wry, tongue-in-cheek humor.” —Orange County Register
* Produced by special arrangement with THE DRAMATIC PUBLISHING COMPANY of Woodstock, Illinois.
Announcing the Cast…
Ralph………..Scott Kennedy
Ralphie………..Emerson Quinonez
The Old Man……….Casey Hibbert
Mother……….Liz Barbour
Randy……….R.D. Barbour
Miss Shields……….Brianna Edwards
Scut Farkas……….Wyatt Mansfield
Schwartz……….Caden Carnahan
Flick……….Fran Lipp
Esther Jane……….Devonee Gates
Helen……….Leela Bosworth
Santa……….Wilbur Newland
Gossip Neighbor……….Devon Davis
Scut’s Mom and Elf……….Toni Brun
Tree Lot Owner’s Daughter and Elf……….Elliot Quinonez
Scut’s Gang and Student……….Kai Smith
Scut’s Gang and Student……….Landon Keil
Scut’s Gang and Student……….Rowan Espinoza

HARVEY
2025-03-14 19:00 - 21:00
WHO: YOU!
WHAT: Harvey
WHERE: Matthews Opera House Theater 612 N. Main Street, Spearfish
WHEN: March 14, 15 at 7 pm | March 16 at 2 pm | March 18, 21, 22 at 7 pm | March 23 at 2 pm
WHY: To enjoy a performance sure to please!
HOW: You can purchase tickets online at matthewsopera.com, call us at 605.642.7973, or stop into the Gallery at 612 Main Street Spearfish

Harvey

by Mary Chase
Harvey is a 1944 play by the American playwright Mary Chase. She received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for the work in 1945. It has been adapted for film and television several times, most notably in a 1950 film starring James Stewart and Josephine Hull.

Plot

Elwood P. Dowd is an affable man who claims to have an unseen (and presumably imaginary) friend Harvey – whom Elwood describes as a six foot, three-and-one-half inch (192 cm) tall pooka resembling an anthropomorphic rabbit. Elwood introduces Harvey to everyone he meets. His social-climbing sister, Veta Simmons, increasingly finds his eccentric behavior embarrassing. She decides to have him committed to a sanitarium. When they arrive at the sanitarium, a comedy of errors ensues. When Veta confesses that she has seen Harvey too, the young Dr. Sanderson commits Veta instead of Elwood. But when the mistake comes out, the search is on for Elwood and his invisible companion.
When Elwood shows up at the sanitarium looking for his lost friend Harvey, it seems that the mild-mannered Elwood has had a strange influence on the staff, including sanitarium director Dr. Chumley. Only just before Elwood is to be given an injection that will make him into a “perfectly normal human being, and you know what bastards they are!” (in the words of a taxi driver who has become involved in the proceedings) does Veta realize that she would rather have Elwood the same as he has always been – carefree and kind – even if it means living with Harvey.

Cast List

Randy Bender – Elwood P. Dowd
Shirlene Joseph – Vita Louise Simmons
Josephine Julian – Myrtle Mae Simmons
Gavin Cox – Dr. Lyman Sanderson
Samantha (Sami) O’Neal – Ruth Kelly R.N.
Jim Hoff – Dr. William Chumley
Lynn Pederson – Betty Chumley
Wilbur Newland – Judge Gaffney
Connie Hubbard – Mrs. Ethel Chauvenet
Owen K. Ligtenberg – Wilson
Melita Quinonez – E. J. Lofgren (Cabbie)
Katrina Hutchinson – Miss Johnson (Maid)

Jon Steven Wiley – Director
Elysia Pederson – Assistant Director/Light Design
Oliver Pederson – Light Board Operator
Dwight Myers – Stage Design

A Midsummer Night's Dream
2025-05-09 19:00 - 21:00
WHO: YOU!
WHAT: A Midsummer Night’s Dream theater performance
WHERE: Matthews Opera House Theater 612 N. Main Street, Spearfish
WHEN: May 9, 10 at 7 pm | May 11 at 2 pm | May 13, 16, 17 at 7 pm | May 18 at 2 pm
WHY: To enjoy a performance sure to please!
HOW: You can purchase tickets online at matthewsopera.com, call us at 605.642.7973, or stop into the Gallery at 612 Main Street Spearfish

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

by William Shakespeare
Two pairs of star-crossed lovers, a feuding fairy king and his stubborn queen, a love potion gone awry, and a troupe of bumbling actors weave a commedy of errors in Shakepeare’s beloved tale.

Plot

Ring in the Spring with A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Matthews. In William Shakespeare’s classic comedy, residents of Athens mix with fairies from a local forest, with absurd results. Theseus, Duke of Athens, is to marry Hippolyta, queen of the Amazons. In hopes of staging a play for the wedding celebration, Bottom the Weaver and his friends rehearse in the woods with results that can only be described as hopelessly ridiculous.
Meanwhile, four young lovers are in a romantic tangle. Lysander and Demetrius love Hermia; she loves Lysander and her friend Helena loves Demetrius. Hermia’s father, Egeus, commands Hermia to marry Demetrius. All four young people end up in the woods where the fairy Puck, who serves the fairy king Oberon, puts a spell on Lysander, and then Demetrius, unintentionally causing both to love Helena. Oberon, who is quarreling with his wife, Titania, uses the same magic on her, causing her to fall in love with Bottom, who now, thanks to Puck, wears an ass’s head.
Cast List:

Theseus…Jack Hughes
Hippolyta…Megan Oviatt
Egeus…John Eisenbraun
Philostrate…Cynthia Scherer
Lysander…Owen Ligtenberg
Demetrius…Ben Jewett
Hermia…Maggie Elias
Helena…Stephanie Bussiere
Oberon…Zach Cox
Puck…Brenna Meyer
Titania…Melita Quinonez
Moth…Charley Jagim
Cobweb…Gianna Swan
Peaseblossom…Josephine Julian
Mustardseed…Avenlee Downey
Bottom…Matt Woodard
Quince…Lynn Pederson
Flute…Dylan Greywater
Snug…Elysia Pederson
Snout…Janet Ott
Starveling…Clark Ott

Hercules: Missoula Children’s Theatre
2025-07-12 15:00 - 17:00, 2025-07-12 17:30 - 19:30
Performance: July 12th 3:00PM & 5:30PM
Get ready for a mythological adventure with Hercules! The Matthews and Missoula Children’s Theater program presents this fun, family-friendly performance starring local young actors in a high-energy retelling of the legendary tale. Packed with heroic feats, laughter, and heart, this show is perfect for audiences of all ages. Join us for an unforgettable journey to Mount Olympus and beyond—where heroes are made and legends come to life!
About the Show: Hercules
Adapted by Michael McGill and Joseph Martinez – Music and lyrics by Michael McGill
Welcome to Ancient Greece, where the focus is on the big tournament! The Olympic Games are starting soon, and the Cyclopes and Titans are both expecting to win big in the games. But the tournament can’t start without Hercules. Will the legendary strongman of the ancient world spark the flame and start the festivities on time, or will his legendary tardiness get in the way of the games? Join us for a tale the scholars will talk about for ages as mythical creatures and Olympians alike share in a friendly competition. Along the way, we may just learn that true strength lies not in our muscles but in our character.
About Missoula Children’s Theatre
The Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT), the nation’s largest touring children’s theatre, has been touring extensively for more than 50 years now from Montana to Japan, and will visit nearly 1,000 communities this year with up to 44 teams of Tour Actor/Directors. A tour team arrives in a given town with a set, lights, costumes, and props, everything it takes to put on a play…except the cast. The team holds an open audition and casts 50-60 local students to perform in the production. The show is rehearsed throughout the week and two public performances are presented on Saturday. All MCT shows are original adaptations of classic children’s stories and fairytales . . . a twist on the classic stories that you know and love. Also included in the residency are three enrichment workshops presented by the Tour Actor/Directors. Creativity, social skills, goal achievement, communication skills and self-esteem are all characteristics that are attained through the participation in this unique, educational project. MCT’s mission is the empowerment of children and adults through theatre education and performance to develop lifelong skills while enriching communities worldwide through live productions.
The Missoula Children’s Theatre is based in Missoula, Montana, and also runs many local programs. These include a Youth Series – musical theatre day camps, performing arts classes for local children, a sleep-away Performing Arts Camp for students from around the world as well as a Community Series which creates an arena for local talent of all ages to participate in large-scale productions and attracts audiences from across western Montana.
For more information regarding the Missoula Children’s Theatre, please contact us:
Missoula Children’s Theatre · 200 North Adams · Missoula, MT 59802
406.829.5202 · www.MCTinc.org · tour@MCTinc.org

Alex Velluto - Comedy Night
2025-08-02 19:00 - 21:00
Get ready to laugh! The Matthews is thrilled to welcome nationally touring comedian Alex Velluto on Saturday, August 2, for one night only. Known for his sharp wit, relatable stories, and viral Dry Bar Comedy specials—including Spurious, Thirsty, and The Big Gulp Kid—Alex brings a refreshing brand of comedy that’s clean, clever, and crowd-approved.
He’s been featured on Peacock, Circle Network, and Nateland Presents by Nate Bargatze, and has performed across the country, including the legendary Grand Ole Opry.
🎟 Tickets are just $20 General Admission – come early, grab a drink, and enjoy a full evening of laughs at Spearfish’s historic home for live entertainment.

Erik Koskinen Live
2025-08-10 19:00 - 21:00
Join us for an unforgettable evening of gritty American music as acclaimed songwriter and guitarist Erik Koskinen brings his raw, honest sound to The Matthews.
Blending Americana, country, folk, and rock ‘n’ roll, Koskinen defies easy categorization—but his songs always ring true. With lyrics rooted in working-class life and a guitar tone soaked in Midwestern grit, his music moves effortlessly from open plains to late-night barrooms.
Koskinen has shared stages with legends like Lyle Lovett, John Prine, and Lucinda Williams, earning a reputation as a songwriter’s songwriter. His newest album, Down Street / Love Avenue, showcases both his sharp lyrical eye and his dynamic musical range.

Tickets: $25
Seats are limited—secure yours now for a night of authentic, no-frills storytelling and electric guitar swagger.

TICKETS GO ON SALE: Theater on the Run
2025-08-18
AUG. 18th @ 10AM: Tickets go on sale for Theater on the Run. The fastest way to get tickets is to buy online. Otherwise, drop into the art gallery between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. OR call 605.642.7973.
The 2025 Theater on the Run is performed two consecutive Saturdays at 6 p.m., Sept. 20 and 27.
Theater running in place will be on September 28th at 2 pm
Theater on the Run has sold out every year since 2012. HINT: We have sold out in just 8 hours. Yes. That means — do not procrastinate.

Kelsey Waldon – Every Ghost Tour
2025-09-21 14:00 - 17:00
Step out of the bustle and into something unforgettable. On Sunday, September 21, The Matthews in Spearfish welcomes Kelsey Waldon, one of Americana’s most fearless voices, for a special matinee stop on her Every Ghost Tour. This intimate performance comes on the heels of a big weekend in the Black Hills. Whether you’re winding down after the energy of the Deadwood Jam or just looking for a soul-stirring Sunday experience, this show offers a chance to slow down, listen deeply, and connect through song.

A Kentucky native and the first artist signed to John Prine’s Oh Boy Records in over 15 years, Waldon has carved out a reputation for raw honesty, poetic grit, and deep musical roots. Her latest record, Every Ghost, is a reckoning with memory, healing, and identity—with songs that hold compassion for broken people, past selves, and hard-earned growth. She’ll be joined by her band, The Muleskinners, for a set that promises stripped-back storytelling and musical power in equal measure.
This is a listening-room experience: seated, focused, and unforgettable.

What to Expect:A full 90-minute performance with Kelsey Waldon & The MuleskinnersReserved seating in the historic Matthews Opera HouseA quiet, intimate space to fully engage with the music

General Admission: $25
Presale Access: June 24–27 using code: GHOST
Public On Sale: Friday, June 27 @ 8am MT

Come early. Sit back. Listen closely. This is the kind of Sunday that stays with you.

SOLD OUT: Come Fly With Me - Frank Sinatra Tribute
2025-10-04 18:00 - 20:30
Ol’ Blue Eyes. The Chairman Of The Board. The Voice.Frank Sinatra had many names over his 50+ years in the music industry. He challenged status quos, helped to arrange his own music, and created a career from scratch.On Saturday, October 4th, The South Dakota Jazz Orchestra, under Artistic Direction of Alex Massa and Danny Thornburg, bring you “Come Fly With Me”, featuring the talent of Mr. Tony DeBlois.Tony DeBlois, born blind and autistic and less than three pounds, embodies the resilient spirit of this music and of Frank himself. Having received a full ride to the Berklee School of Music at age 15, Tony had the makings of a star from a young age. Now, having performed in multiple countries around the world, and most recently performing at The United Nations in June of 2025, Tony currently lives in Rapid City.His deep knowledge and understanding of Frank’s music will leave you speechless, and put in front of a 17-piece Big Band, this will be a show you remember for the rest of your life.
TICKETS: $35
Location: The Matthews Opera House & Arts Center | 612 N Main St, Spearfish, SD 57783Questions? Call (605) 642-7973 for more information.

The Lion in Winter
2025-10-24 19:00 - 21:00
This October, step into the candlelit halls of 1183, where kings and queens wage wars not only on battlefields but at the dinner table. The Lion in Winter, by James Goldman, invites you into the turbulent world of King Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine—two legendary figures whose marriage is as fierce as their fight for the future of the crown.
It is Christmas at Chinon Castle, and Henry summons his estranged queen, his three unruly sons, and a scheming young king of France for a holiday “family gathering” unlike any other. Behind the laughter and biting wit lies a dangerous game of alliances and betrayals, as each player maneuvers for power in a realm where love is tangled with ambition.
With its razor-sharp dialogue, wry humor, and unflinching look at the human heart, The Lion in Winter has captivated audiences for decades. This revival by The Matthews Opera House Community Theater honors its first appearance on our stage in 1999, breathing fresh life into a timeless battle of wills.
Expect sumptuous period costumes, a richly talented local cast, and an evening that proves history’s grandest dramas are often played out within the walls of a family home.
Performances: October 24, 25, 26, 28, 31 & November 1, 2Fridays & Saturdays • 7:00 pmSundays • 2:00 pm | Tuesday • 7:00 pm
Directed by Joe Saracco & Charlotte Dougherty
Eleanor (Queen of Aquitaine) ………Shirlene Joseph
Henry II (King of England)……..Dwight Myers
Alais (Princess of France)……….Leah Joy
Richard (Lionheart, son)…………Patrick Luebben
Geoffrey (son)…………………….Owen Lichtenberg
John (son)…………………….……John Eisenbraun
Phillip (King of France)…………..Stephanie Bussiere

The Lion in Winter
2025-10-28 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-11-01 19:00 - 21:00
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31 PERFORMANCE HAS BEEN CANCELED
This October, step into the candlelit halls of 1183, where kings and queens wage wars not only on battlefields but at the dinner table. The Lion in Winter, by James Goldman, invites you into the turbulent world of King Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine—two legendary figures whose marriage is as fierce as their fight for the future of the crown.
It is Christmas at Chinon Castle, and Henry summons his estranged queen, his three unruly sons, and a scheming young king of France for a holiday “family gathering” unlike any other. Behind the laughter and biting wit lies a dangerous game of alliances and betrayals, as each player maneuvers for power in a realm where love is tangled with ambition.
With its razor-sharp dialogue, wry humor, and unflinching look at the human heart, The Lion in Winter has captivated audiences for decades. This revival by The Matthews Opera House Community Theater honors its first appearance on our stage in 1999, breathing fresh life into a timeless battle of wills.
Expect sumptuous period costumes, a richly talented local cast, and an evening that proves history’s grandest dramas are often played out within the walls of a family home.
Performances: October 24, 25, 26, 28 & November 1, 2Fridays & Saturdays • 7:00 pmSundays • 2:00 pm | Tuesday • 7:00 pm
Directed by Joe Saracco & Charlotte Dougherty
Eleanor (Queen of Aquitaine) ………Shirlene Joseph
Henry II (King of England)……..Dwight Myers
Alais (Princess of France)……….Leah Joy
Richard (Lionheart, son)…………Patrick Luebben
Geoffrey (son)…………………….Owen Lichtenberg
John (son)…………………….……John Eisenbraun
Phillip (King of France)…………..Stephanie Bussiere

CANCELED: The Lion in Winter
2025-10-31 19:00 - 21:00
October 31st Performance Canceled
We regret to announce that The Lion in Winter performance scheduled for Friday, October 31, has been canceled.
If you purchased tickets for this night, please contact us at (605) 642-7973 to exchange your tickets for another date or request a refund.
We appreciate your understanding and continued support of community theater at The Matthews!

Inspecting Carol
2025-12-12 19:00 - 20:30
The Matthews Community Theater proudly presents Inspecting Carol by Daniel J. Sullivan, a backstage holiday comedy that spoofs both A Christmas Carol and the frantic world of community theater. The play follows a struggling theatre troupe as they prepare for their annual production of Dickens’ classic. Everything goes wrong: actors forget lines, the set collapses, egos clash, and rehearsals spiral out of control. When the troupe mistakes a clueless wannabe actor for a feared National Endowment for the Arts inspector, panic sets in, and desperate attempts to impress lead to even more ridiculous disasters.
Full of slapstick, satire, and seasonal spirit, Inspecting Carol is a joyful romp that celebrates the magic (and madness) of live theater. With clever wordplay, physical comedy, and a cast of eccentric characters, this hilarious farce is perfect for anyone who enjoys laughter, theatrical hijinks, and the unpredictable charm of community theater.
Performances: December 12th-14th, 16th, & 19th-21stFridays & Saturdays • 7:00 pmSundays • 2:00 pm | Tuesday • 7:00 pm
Directed by Max G. Merchen
The Cast

M.J. (Mary Jane) McMann …… Sue Cole
Wayne Wellace …… Jared Waltz
Zorah Bloch …… Tammi Martin
Luther Beatty …… Emerson Quinonez
Dorothy Tree Hapgood …… Lynn Pederson
Sidney Carlton …… Bruce Woodard
Phil Hewlitt …… John Eisenbraun
Walter E. Parsons …… William Black Lance
Kendra Emery …… Jannet Ott
Bart Francis …… Landon Kiel
Larry Vauxhal …… Clark Ott
Betty Andrews …… Pat Rogge

________________________________________
$20 Adults – $10 Students

Dancing at Lughnasa
2026-03-26 19:00 - 21:00
Dancing at Lughnasa brings the intimacy of Irish family life to The Matthews stage in a way you’ve never experienced theater before. This acclaimed Brian Friel play has captivated audiences worldwide with its tender portrait of five sisters navigating love, loss, and resilience in 1930s Ireland. Set against the backdrop of the ancient harvest festival of Lughnasa, the story weaves together laughter, tension, and the unbreakable bonds that hold a family together through hardship. With direction by Shirlene and immersive set design by David, this production transforms the space into the Mundy family home, drawing you directly into their world.
Step into the family circle for four nights only, March 26–29, 2026. This intimate staging features thrust platforms and in-the-aisle moments that bring the action close enough to feel every whispered secret and burst of joy. Limited seating creates an up-close experience you won’t find anywhere else. Doors open at 6:30 PM, curtain at 7:00 PM. Two exclusive upper box packages include wine, cheese, and premium seating. The bar opens one hour before showtime.
The Matthews is proud to bring immersive, community-made theater to downtown Spearfish. This production features locally sourced set pieces and the collaborative artistry that makes live theater here something special.
Seating is limited by design to preserve the intimacy of this experience.
Performances: March 26, 27, 28, & 29Thursday – Saturdays • 7:00 pmSundays • 2:00 pm
Directed by Shirlene Joseph
The Cast

Maggie ….. Trudy Anderson

Kate ….. Brenna Meyer

Rose ….. Killian Mechaley

Chris….. Joanna Mechaley

Gerry….. Mitch Mechaley

Agnes ….. Cindy Scherer

Jack ….. Max G. Merchen

Michael ….. Gavin Cox

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$25 Adults – $15 Students

The Importance of Being Earnest
2026-05-14 19:00 - 21:00
Oscar Wilde wrote the funniest play in the English language, and The Importance of Being Earnest is coming to The Matthews with crisp pacing, a stylish look, and laughs that land fast. This production keeps Wilde’s razor-sharp dialogue front and center, with active physical comedy, quick turns, and a cast built for speed and chemistry. Expect mistaken identities, secret engagements, and the kind of wit you quote on the way home. If you want a “name” comedy that’s pure fun and easy to bring friends to, this is the one.
It’s a witty, fast-paced night out with a lightly modern aesthetic (not stuffy, not overly precious) that keeps the focus on language, characters, and momentum. Show dates are May 14–17 at 7:00 PM, including a double-header matinee and evening on May 16. Reserved seating. Tickets are $25 adult / $15 student. Come ready for big laughs, sharp banter, and a high-energy final scene that goes delightfully off the rails.
The Matthews has been bringing live theater to Spearfish for over 120 years, and this production continues that tradition with a local cast and a creative team that knows how to fill a stage. Classic work, made fresh, right here downtown.
Seats are limited by design, and this run moves fast. Grab your tickets now, bring a theatre buddy, and make it a night out—Wilde’s wit hits even harder live.
Performances: May 14, 15, 16, & 17Thursday – Friday • 7:00 pm
Saturday • 12:00pm & 7:00pm
Sunday • 12:00 pm
Directed by Melita Quinonez
$25 Adults – $15 Students

Children's Theater Auditions
2026-06-08 10:00 - 12:00
Auditions: Theatre 605 Tours Residency – Space Pirates!
June 8, 2026 | 10:00 AM | The Matthews Opera House & Arts Center
Join us for auditions for Theatre 605 Tours’ week-long residency production of Space Pirates!—a brand-new children’s musical brought to life by local students and professional touring directors. Auditions are open to students entering 1st through 12th grade (Fall 2026), and no prior experience or preparation is required.
Students will participate in fun, group-based auditions led by touring Actor/Directors Nessa Yaakova and Noelle Hall. Casting decisions are made quickly, and all selected performers will rehearse and perform in a full production presented at the end of the week.
Come ready to move, follow directions, and have fun exploring characters in a welcoming and creative environment. All participants should arrive on time and plan to stay for the full audition session.
For more information about registration visit: https://www.matthewsopera.com/childrens-theater-space-pirates/

Space Pirates! Children's Theater Performance
2026-06-13 14:00 - 15:30, 2026-06-13 18:00 - 19:30 | The Matthews Opera House – Theatre, 614 Main St, Spearfish, 57783, United States
Theatre 605 Tours Residency – Space Pirates!
June 13, 2026 | 2:00 & 6:00 PM | The Matthews Opera House & Arts Center
Local Young People to Perform the Musical Space Pirates!
Prepare for an out-of-this-world adventure! Our talented local youth are ready to dazzle audiences with their performance in the musical sensation, Space Pirates! Thanks to the generous support of and Theatre 605 Tours, this cosmic journey is set to take flight!
Join Casey on an adventure from a mundane museum tour to the chaotic realm of alien spaceships and pirates. Captivated by ancient artifacts, Casey is transported to the Zooglebotz spaceship, where aliens gather Earth’s items to learn about humanity. When space pirates attack, Casey devises a clever plan to save their alien allies and return home. The story promotes friendship, self-discovery, curiosity, and teamwork, complemented by a lively soundtrack of pirate shanties and alien ballads, celebrating the uniqueness of everyone.
This special performance culminates a week of hard work for up to 60 young stars, offering them a taste of a professionally produced musical. Don’t miss out on the intergalactic fun! Secure your tickets for Space Pirates! on Saturday, June 13th at 2pm & 6pm at The Matthews, for just $10. Blast off with us to the stars!
For more information, contact marketing@matthewsopera.com. Space Pirates! is presented through special arrangements with Beat by Beat Press (www.bbbpress.com).

Rose Hill Cemetery Walk
2026-06-22 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-06-23 18:30 - 20:30 | Rose Hill Cemetery, 255 Ash St, Spearfish, SD
June 22 and 23, 2026 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Rose Hill Cemetery – 255 Ash St, Spearfish, SD

The Matthews Opera House presents the Rose Hill Cemetery Walk June 22 and 23 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Rose Hill Cemetery, 255 Ash Street, Spearfish, SD. Matthews Opera House showcases this family friendly outdoor theater event amidst the stunning hilltop views of Spearfish. Matthews actors, dressed in period appropriate costumes, will resurrect early settlers graveside, presenting their personal stories of antics and heroics. This year some of the actors will be presenting the story of an ancestor spiced with legendary memories.

Plan to arrive 30 minutes before showtime to allow for parking and walking to the gathering area. Parking attendants will be at the gate upon arrival to assist with information. All walkways are paved and easily accessible. For your personal comfort, you are invited to bring your own seating and hydration. Donations are welcome and will be directed toward the needs of the Matthews Opera House.

Should weather disallow the outdoor setting, this event may be relocated to the Matthews Opera House.

Children's Theater Auditions
2026-07-06 10:00 - 12:00 | The Matthews Opera House – Theatre, 614 Main St, Spearfish, 57783, United States
Auditions: Missoula Children’s Theatre Residency – Aladdin

July 6, 2026 | 10:00 AM | The Matthews Opera House & Arts Center

Auditions for Missoula Children’s Theatre’s residency production of Aladdin are open to students entering 1st through 12th grade (Fall 2026). No experience or advance preparation is needed—just enthusiasm and a willingness to participate!

Students will take part in a group audition led by professional touring directors, featuring simple movement, storytelling, and ensemble activities designed to help identify roles that best fit each performer. Casting will be announced shortly after auditions, with rehearsals beginning the same day.

Selected students will spend the week rehearsing and preparing for a full-stage musical performance. This is a unique opportunity to build confidence, make new friends, and be part of a fast-paced theatrical experience from audition to final curtain in just one week. Arrive on time and be prepared to stay for the full audition session.

For more information about registration visit: https://www.matthewsopera.com/childrens-theater-aladdin/
