In a way, perhaps, the theatre became part of what the community needed to heal after the devastation. “After the tornado, our community really leaned into supporting one another, and the theatre became a place of comfort, escape, and togetherness,” says Kalee Mangrum. “People want to feel connected, and live theatre offers that in such a unique way. It’s more than just a show - it’s a shared experience. I think that sense of resilience, gratitude and community pride has played a big role in the extra excitement and support we’ve felt.” In 2024 and 2025, the Purchase Players sold out performances of shows like Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Shrek the Musical, Hairspray, Disney’s 101 Dalmatians Kids, Little Women, Night of the Living Dead Live, Matilda, The Whale, Tuesdays with Morrie, 110 Stories, and Heathers. Their 2024 and 2025 children’s theatre camps and shows saw chart-topping record-setting numbers, both with attendance and with camp attendees. For Purchase Players, the broad spectrum of shows and opportunities serves a very real purpose. “We’ve worked hard to broaden our diversity to set the tone for inclusivity - something every theatre should aspire to do,” says Kyler. “We are already seeing the benefits of opening those doors into areas that never knew we existed.” Their 2026 season promises to continue that trend, with showstoppers like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Disney’s Frozen, and Disney’s Aladdin paired with important stories like Diary of Anne Frank and even TikTok trending shows like Ride the Cyclone. Collectively, the theatre has dubbed the 2026 Season, “The Stories That Shape Us”, proof that they are not at all resting on their laurels. “Purchase Players represents so much more than just a theater group; it’s a true community built on creativity, passion, and bold ideas,” says Callie. “It’s a place where imagination is encouraged, voices are valued, and big ideas are met with even bigger achievements. Together, we support one another, dream fearlessly, and prove time and time again that incredible things can grow from a shared love of the arts.” Learn about the 2026 season, how you can get season tickets or individual show tickets, how you can audition to be part of the stories on stage, find volunteer opportunities, or other ways you can support the theatre by visiting the website or following The Purchase Players on Facebook. www.purchaseplayers.com Be Part of the 2026 Stories That Shape Us! “Just because we’re in little Mayfield doesn’t mean our vision has to be small. Big ideas don’t belong only to big cities. They belong to people willing to grow, take risks, and push beyond what’s comfortable. We choose growth over staying stuck, and we are proof of what’s possible when you do.” Just because we’re in little Mayfield doesn’t mean our vision has to be small. Big ideas don’t belong only to big cities. They belong to people willing to grow, take risks, and push beyond what’s comfortable. We choose growth over staying stuck, and we are proof of what’s possible when you do. 62 FEBRUARY 2026 | INTHEVUE.COM
