Crest Area Theatre reviews “Hillbillies”

Crest Area Theatre’s first meeting since the start of their summer production of “The Beverly Hillbillies” offered opportunities for reflection and celebration, noting the show’s major success.

Creston’s local community theatre produced “The Beverly Hillbillies,” with three shows between July 11-13. The show was directed by Jerry Huffman based on a script by David Rodgers. Additional direction came from Julia Weisshaar-Mullin, Bridget Hopkins and Justin Kendrick.

“The Beverly Hillbillies” is based off the CBS program created by Paul Henning which originally premiered in 1962. The show’s appeal to an older generation made a good fit for Creston, as well as the chance for family-friendly comedy.

Advertising and other costs related to the production of the summer show totaled at around $2,800, although the number is noted with a few outstanding bills yet to be paid. Funding for the production was partially provided from the City of Creston’s Hotel/Motel Grant Program.

Huffman, who also serves as treasurer for CAT, noted a higher cost of production based on an elaborate set and additional scripts needed to accommodate the large cast.

Yet, with over $5,000 in ticket sales and an estimated audience count of 440, “The Beverly Hillbillies” was one of CAT’s largest successes in recent years. The Sunday show on July 13 was noted as the largest audience, with 168 in attendance at the Southwestern Community College’s Performing Arts Center.

The effect on the show’s performers was recognized. Fred Stewart, who played a lead role of Jed Clampett and attended Monday’s meeting, said people had reached out to him, congratulating the quality of the show and his performance.

Out of 21 performers in the production, 10 of them were new to CAT. Additionally, several performers were of an older generation and had appreciated the opportunity a show like “The Beverly Hillbillies” offered.

“It surprised the hell out of me,” Stewart said.

Huffman noted “The Beverly Hillbillies” will be his final production as director for CAT, and will also retire from the community theatre’s board at the end of 2025.

In other Crest Area Theatre news...

The winter production has had performance dates reserved. The holiday show, undecided today, will have performances on Dec. 5, 6 and 7. This is notably a week earlier than previous years, when performances would be held the second weekend of December.

CAT President Bill Mullin will direct the winter show, with Ahdri Kendrick co-directing. In regards to what the show will be, Mullin said he’d decide by the time of September’s meeting. He gave a brief idea for the show as a one-act production with various entertainment and skits interspersed.

Mullin created an internal wish list of infrastructure he would like to see CAT acquire if funding allows. Included in this wish list is a new soundboard to replace an aging board in operation at SWCC, internal communication devices for stage managers and technicians to relay commands easier during performances and new lighting instruments.

Huffman noted three incoming expenses CAT will be facing in coming months. For the annual awarding of CAT’s scholarship, $250 will be saved. CAT’s storage rental will be saved at a total of $660.

Liability coverage in order for CAT to use SWCC’s Performing Arts Center will be saved as well. Huffman noted a $1370 cost for this year’s annual cost, but noted the next charge could be higher.