Laugh out loud, boo the villains, and cheer the heroes!
The Great American Melodrama Theatre offers unique evenings of music and comedy, thrilling audiences since opening its doors in 1975. The theatre offers fun, interactive, family-friendly performances with top-tier professional actors from all over the country who greet audiences at the door, entertain them all evening on and off stage, and deliver the best performances on the Central Coast.
Known as “the Melodrama” by its fans, the theatre offers fresh, funny shows with titles that you won’t see anywhere else. Modern musical plays or contemporary takes on familiar stories are all performed in the melodrama style, including the use of broad comedy and larger-than-life characters. In true melodrama theatre style, audiences are encouraged to boo the villain, cheer the hero, and swoon for the lovers.
A favorite experience for many in the audience is interacting with the performers throughout the evening. The actors not only perform but also greet guests at the door, show them to their seats, serve food at the snack bar, and take time during intermission to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries in the crowd.
With a wide variety of food, snacks, desserts, beer, wine, and sodas, as well as a third-act Vaudeville Revue, an evening at the Melodrama is three experiences in one: A great play, delicious dining, and a themed cabaret full of music, parody, and comedy sketches.
Over the next few months, the Melodrama actors explore a mystical town, outsmart Western bad guys, and solve the mystery of a missing body.
The Saga of Roaring Gulch, June 19 – August 1
In the lively Wild West town of Roaring Gulch, CA, nouveau riche, 49er style, Hilda Heartfelt captures the heart of Marshal Wyatt Winchester and the attention of the cunning gold hunters, Bart Black and Calantha. Get ready for a musical melodrama that will make you tap your boots and clutch your heart.
Murder on the Air, August 7 – September 19
In 1938, at station WBFR, a live radio broadcast faces chaos with picketing musicians, a dwindling crew, and the rumored death of the leading lady, whose body had disappeared. The remaining staff must continue with various programs while solving the mystery, all while staying on the air.
Young performer auditions
The Melodrama is holding young performer auditions for ages 5 to 17 on Monday, July 13. To register, email audition@americanmelodrama.com.
Get your tickets here, ladies and gentlemen!
The Great American Melodrama Theatre is located at 1863 Front St, Oceano. The box office is located at 1827 Front St. For tickets and more information, visit americanmelodrama.com or call the box office at (805) 489-2499.
