While there have been a number of shows and productions returning to local theatres throughout the region post the pandemic, few seem to carry the excitement and the draw that the fall performances do each year and this year, theatre managers are determined to pull you in. The bills scheduled for the coming weekends in both Flandreau and Pipestone will showcase local talent in ways you’ve never seen before, and the variety of entertainment available is unique for such small theatres.
There is no doubt, no matter your age, you will leave feeling grateful that you took a seat.
Rehearsals for “Elf, The Musical” in Flandreau, are hitting their stride. The cast and crew say that after a year with no live performances at the Crystal, being back onstage performing a musical is truly something to celebrate. They promise to share a little “sparklejollytwinklejingley” and a musical that will have you in the Christmas spirit.

Seats must be reserved in advance. You are encouraged to call (605) 864-0517 or stop by the Box Office. “Friends of Elf”, which requires a $50 donation to the Theatre, are able to purchase tickets starting October 20. Season ticket holders can stop in for tickets starting on October 21. Ticket sales open otherwise to the general public starting October 22.
Across the border, the Calumet Players Theatre in Pipestone will be the first to open its doors. The Players are performing, in one setting, six One Act Plays. The productions include Comedy of Errs, Treed, Tell Me Another Story - Sing Me a Song, A Long Trip, The 146 Point Flame, and After the Flags and Band.
Flandreau’s Mason Thompson is starring in multiple roles in The 146 Point Flame. The play is based on the historic 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City, considered one of the darkest moments of America’s industrial history. The factory burned down, killing 146 workers, on March 25, 1911. The tragedy led to new laws and regulations that better protected the safety of factory workers.
The production opened this past weekend. Performances are scheduled again this Friday and Saturday at 7:30 pm and Sunday at 2:00 pm.  
“Why not (come check it out),” said Thompson. “Especially after last year and being cooped up due to the pandemic. Come see a good show…live theatre between the actors and the audience is such a unique experience and we are lucky to have access to theatre in our small towns.”