Pictured is the cast performing in a previous performance of “Beacon on the Rock” at The Lake Superior Theatre in Marquette. (Journal file photo)

Welcome to Summer 2020.

We admit, it’s unlike any summer we’ve ever experienced. Much like everyone else, we are thinking about the things we should be doing, the things we are missing, and hoping that someday soon we can have “normal” back.

The Boathouse is so quiet and empty. There hasn’t been a time since 1999, when we opened LST with “Beacon On The Rock,” that we’ve gone this long without a song, or story being told. There is certain sadness about the empty seats, but there is also hope. We are working on upgrading the Green Room for our cast and crew — making lemonade out of the lemons of our extended intermission! Theater has been there for so many people, even in the darkest of times, to educate and entertain, or bring back happy memories.

That brings us to today. We are faced with unprecedented decisions about how to bring theater back and provide a safe, comfortable environment for our performers and our audiences. Since we closed in August 2019, not a day has gone by without a discussion about how and when to reopen. Unfortunately, we don’t have many more answers today than when we started this process months ago.

But, here is what we do know: we will reopen. As the gathering summer place for the community, we cannot wait to be back hosting the best live experiences and once again sharing inspirational moments with you! We have a list of great shows that we think our audiences will enjoy, that will also allow for casts to rehearse safely. The shows we have planned for 2021 include “Once the Musical,” “Nunsense,” “Catch Me If You Can,” and with Superior Arts Youth Theater, “The Big Friendly Giant” and Shakespeare’s “Romeo & Juliet.”

As we navigate the current environment, we are all faced with unique challenges. We are thinking of each and every one of you while we try to adapt. This remains clear, we are all navigating new waters; but this is not the end this is the intermission for LST. We will return to our favorite place, the boathouse, stronger than ever. We look forward to brighter days ahead and thank you with grateful hearts for all of your support the last 21 years.

Be well and stay safe.

Peggy Frazier

LST