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By Tim Flanagan

AHOSKIE – It is always funny when I hear there is nothing to do in Hertford County and surrounding areas, when in reality this area is rich with music, festivals, heritage and more.

What there is only one of is a live playhouse named the Gallery Theatre! The theatre is a historic entertainment hub that has been an integral part of the community for decades. This community dedicated playhouse is not only one of the last remaining vaudeville theatres in the country, but it has seen many local faces, both past and present on stage, without missing a beat except for the COVID shutdown.

The 2022/2023 season began Oct. 8 with the first ever “Comedy Improv Challenge” where local comedic talent and distinguished judges came together for a fun and amazing night. Laughs, hooting and guffaws echoed across the Gallery’s timeless stage.

On Dec. 1-2 the theatre launched another first with the “Christmas Extravaganza” directed by Murfreesboro resident Jayme Leigh. This totally fun and eclectic show starred the community. Stage performers of all ages adorned the stage and filled the audience with Christmas cheer and laughs.

The 2023 side of the season starts with an answer to the community’s desire for somewhere and something to do that isn’t digital and offers a way for people to express themselves through the arts.

Feb. 25 (at 7:30 pm) kicks off the monthly “Community Talent Competition” which is open to any age or talent, and not only gives the winner a chance at a $100 top prize, but it also places them to in the Sept. 23 championship competition for even greater cash and prizes! This gives the community a platform for their talents, and a home to be free to grow and evolve. So, please make sure you come out and support the theatre, the arts and the community who needs an audience for their dreams to come true, and their fears to be diminished.

On Sunday March 19 at 2:30 pm will be the amazing “Blooming Together” Multi-cultural experience show featuring local stars such as Paul Ruffin aka “Equip”, the Eric Dunlow Band, Johnny Ruffin Jr, Serenading Saxie, Diamond Mimes, the Meherrin Indian Tribe, the amazing vocal group ALIVE, Jewels for Jesus praise dancers and Greek Step Show, poet Trinette Vaughan-Sharpe and hosts MC Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Wilson and Dr. Murray Jean Williams. This is a one-time show, so make sure to get your tickets for this one of a kind event!

What? Not enough live action for you? Who loves Elvis? Who would like to experience an amazingly unique Elvis musical play? Well, on April 1-2 the Gallery Theatre proudly presents “Elvis Alive” directed by Adam & Julie King, and starring Adam King, Julie King, Thomas Jefferson and the vocal band ALIVE! Tickets now available online at gallerytheatreahoskie.com, or at the door on show dates.

Please make sure to follow the Gallery Theatre Ahoskie for all updates, sneak peeks and new shows coming to the Gallery Theatre. A new direction, a new board, a new executive director has created the most fun and community interactive season in Gallery Theatre history. Come to the shows and be part of adding to the already amazing history and legacy of the Gallery Theatre!