Minden Community Players Bring Paint Your Wagon to the Stage

(Minden, Nebraska) “I can remember playing in the orchestra as a high schooler when the Minden Community Players first did this show in 1989,” says Minden Opera House Director Marcy Brandt. “It doesn’t seem possible that it’s been that long ago, and yet here we are! I’m excited to see it again 36 years later with a new generation on the stage.”

Directed and Produced by husband and wife team Don & Joy Phillips, the two are no strangers to the Minden Community Players. Having been involved since its inception in 1984, the Phillips’ have been a part of nearly every production over the organization’s 41 years.

Many people might be more familiar with the big screen version of the musical which debuted in 1979 and introduced the singing voice of Clint Eastwood to audiences everywhere. The storyline follows Ben Rumson - a grizzled prospector whose daughter Jennifer finds gold near their camp. Word of the strike gets around and the town’s population grows tremendously. Jennifer falls in love with a prospector but goes East to school. When the gold strike is over, she returns to find her town a ghost town and her loved ones left with nothing but their hopes and dreams.

The show will run Fridays – Sundays from March 14 – 30. Friday shows will begin at 7:30 pm, with Saturday and Sunday shows starting at 2:30 pm. There will also be an opening weekend ticket special – all seats just $12! All other dates tickets will be $15.

IN THE MOH GALLERY – Minden native and current North Carolina resident John Prince will be presenting his photography show “Nebraska Framed” in March and April. The public is invited to his Artist Reception on Friday, February 28 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm to greet Prince and hear about his artistic process. Free refreshments will be provided and wine will be available to purchase.