Playmakers will offer six performances of “On Golden Pond.” (Submitted photo)

PORT CLINTON – Eighty years of stories, laughter, tears, friendships, and memories. Playmakers Civic Theatre celebrates its 80th year by opening the 2026–2027 season with the play audiences chose as their number one choice – Ernest Thompson’s beloved “On Golden Pond.”

By popular demand, “On Golden Pond” returns to the Playmakers stage Oct. 9 to 18.

Adapted for today’s audiences, the play brings us into the Thayers’ summer home, where a lifetime of memories and family relationships come together. Norman and Ethel Thayer are joined by their daughter, Chelsea, her fiancé Bill, and his young son, Billy. Their visit brings old memories, unresolved feelings, and unexpected connections to the surface.

On Golden Pond is a story about the people we love, the things we leave unsaid, and the complicated relationships that come with being a family. Audiences will recognize the parent who is getting older, the child who still longs to be understood, and the regrets that can come from waiting too long to say what matters.

At its heart, the play reminds us that life is precious, time passes quickly, and it is never too late to mend a relationship, let go of old bitterness, and reconnect with the people who matter most. With humor, tenderness, and moments that feel remarkably familiar, “On Golden Pond” invites audiences to laugh, reflect, and perhaps see a little of their own story on stage.

The play is directed by Brenda MacDonald with Sam Meyer as Assistant Director. The cast features:

• Jeff Bugbee as Norman Thayer Jr.
• Peg McConnell as Ethel Thayer
• Kevin Caudill as Charlie Martin
• Angela Fishburn as Chelsea Thayer Wayne
• Ryan Peebles as Bill Ray
• Max Gerber as Billy Ray

At just 11 years old, Max Gerber brings a new generation to the Playmakers stage. Billy’s unexpected relationship with Norman becomes one of the production’s most touching connections.

For 80 years, Playmakers Civic Theatre has brought local performers, volunteers, and audiences together through live theatre. Beginning this milestone season with a play chosen by its audience makes “On Golden Pond” an especially meaningful opening.

The audience asked for “On Golden Pond.” Playmakers listened.

“On Golden Pond” will be performed on Oct. 9, 10, & 11 and October 16, 17, & 18

Fridays & Saturdays performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Sundays performances begin at 2 p.m.

Playmakers Civic Theatre is located at 604 W. 6th Street in Port Clinton. Tickets are available at pcplaymakers.org, including Senior 65+, Student and Military tickets. Season Flex Tickets are also available—a four-ticket bundle that can be used individually for four Main Season performances or all together for one performance.

Come celebrate Playmakers Civic Theatre’s 80th Year with “On Golden Pond.”

You may come for the play. You may leave thinking about your own story – and the people who matter most.

80 Years…One Community. Endless Stories.