By 1808Delaware
A woman with a troubled past. A town seemingly stuck in its own sorrow. A plan that just might save them both.
This spring, Ohio Wesleyan University’s Department of Performing Arts invites audiences on a heartfelt journey to small-town Wisconsin with its production of The Spitfire Grill, a folk-inspired musical about healing, hope, and human connection. With five free performances scheduled between April 10 and 19, the show is set to warm hearts and spark conversations.
A Story of Redemption and Resilience
The Spitfire Grill centers on Percy Talbott, a young woman recently released from prison, who seeks a fresh start in the faded town of Gilead, Wisconsin. Still reeling from the economic downturn of a post-Vietnam America and mourning the loss of its most promising sons and daughters, Gilead appears frozen in time.
But Percy’s presence—and a bold idea to raffle off the town’s only diner—awakens something dormant in Gilead. Through shared struggle, vulnerability, and determination, both Percy and the townspeople begin to rediscover purpose and the strength to move forward.
Americana on Stage
With music and book by James Valcq and lyrics and book by Fred Alley, The Spitfire Grill is based on the 1996 film by Lee David Zlotoff. Its acoustic, bluegrass-influenced score breathes life into the characters’ struggles and triumphs, blending poignancy with quiet optimism.
“This musical feels like the warm hug of a Hallmark movie,” says director Lusie Cuskey, Ph.D., assistant professor of theatre at OWU. “But it also offers a clear-eyed exploration of the personal and communal work it takes to reach our own version of happily ever after.”
A Collaborative Creation
Joining Cuskey in bringing The Spitfire Grill to life is a talented creative team:
- Jennifer Whitehead, D.M.A., associate professor of music, serves as music director.
- Kaya Ferrell choreographs moments of intimacy and tension.
- Carrie Hurst designs the evocative set, while Jaylene Jennings and Nikki Price handle costume and lighting design, respectively.
Together, they craft an immersive world that captures both the weariness and wonder of Gilead and its people.
Performance Details
All performances will take place at 7:30 PM on April 10, 11, 12, 18, and 19 on the Main Stage of Ohio Wesleyan’s Chappelear Drama Center, 45 Rowland Ave., Delaware. Tickets are free but seating is limited—advance reservations are strongly recommended at owu.edu/spitfire.
Discover More
To learn more about The Spitfire Grill and other upcoming OWU Performing Arts events, visit owu.edu/PerformingArts.
Source: OWU; Photo: Ohio Wesleyan’s production of ‘The Spitfire Grill’ features (from left) Katie Davis as Shelby, Emily Clausing as Hannah, and Emerson Freas as Percy. The musical will run for five performances starting April 10. (Photo by Lusie Cuskey)
