BELLEFONTE — Sock & Buskin Theatre Company — Sock & Buskin, for short — will present its first-ever musical, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, running April 30 through May 3 at The Shop in Zion. This classic comedy by Stephen Sondheim promises an evening of fast-paced humor, memorable songs, and, as Sondheim described it, “something for everyone.”
Founded in 2022 by Stefanie Austin, Kari Williamson, and Gregg Baptista, Sock & Buskin has quickly become a vibrant part of Centre County’s arts community. Known for its original dinner theatre productions at Titan Hollow, as well as a variety of plays, staged readings, one-acts, interactive murder mystery parties, the troupe now expands its offerings with this milestone musical.
“Both our theatre community and our audiences have been asking for a musical,” says co-founder Stefanie Austin. “We wanted to wait until we had the right team and resources to do it well. That time is now.”
To lead the production, Sock & Buskin brought on director and music director Joe Appel, a Brooklyn native who has staged more than 50 musicals in the New York City area. This marks his third time directing Forum, bringing fresh energy and interpretation to the beloved show. He also conducts the production’s live orchestra — an increasingly rare feature in community theatre. In an age where budgets for the arts grow tighter, it is increasingly common for musicals to use pre-recorded tracks in performance.
“I am grateful that Sock & Buskin has invested in live musicians,” Appel says. “It enhances how audiences engage with the show as it is truly meant to be experienced.”
As with all Sock & Buskin productions, the cast and crew of Forum are made up of local volunteers dedicated to delivering high-quality theatre. Their goal with Forum is simple: to provide audiences with a joyful escape. As the show’s opening proclaims, “We shall employ every device we know in our desire to divert you!”
You can catch Forum on April 30, May 1, and May 2 at 7 p.m. or on May 3 at 2 p.m. at The Shop in Zion, 129 Snyder Brook Lane, Bellefonte.
Tickets are available for purchase online at sockandbuskintc.org/tickets or at the door (advanced purchase is recommended). Tickets are $30 for adults (18-64), $25 for seniors (65+), youth (17 & under), and military and veterans.
“We are excited to bring the community this classic yet timeless musical,” Austin adds. “We are proud of how far we’ve come and grateful for the continued support of the community. We hope to continue bringing a diverse lineup of productions to Centre County for years to come.”
