In this special episode of No Small Parts, host Scott Leon Smith chats with Bucyrus Little Theatre (BLT) board members Patty Schwall (Vice President) and Cheri Laughbaum (Secretary). As Ohio weather flips between cold and warm, the trio dives into the excitement surrounding BLT's 75th anniversary celebration and the big reveal of its 2026-27 season.

The conversation highlights the free event on Sunday, April 12, from 2–5 p.m., featuring a Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting, light refreshments, a cash bar (with beer and malted beverages), a video tribute to the theater's rich history (courtesy of historian and set wizard Tom Etsinger), a lively director panel with Q&A (MC'd by Scott himself), and a special sneak-peek performance from the upcoming production of Mamma Mia!

Listeners get warm, behind-the-scenes stories about longtime volunteers like Tom Etsinger's legendary (and secretly fun-filled) set designs, including the infamous Sweeney Todd death drop and hidden Mad Magazine references, plus heartfelt tributes to theater legends such as Helen Neff, Bob and Judy Slater, the Cindys (Ross and Light), and many more who have poured decades of passion into the community stage.

The episode captures the spirit of community theater: dedication without pay, creative problem-solving, uplifting scripts, dark comedies, and the joy of keeping live stories alive in Bucyrus, Ohio, for three-quarters of a century. Perfect for anyone who loves local theater, nostalgic memories, or wants the inside scoop on what's coming next at BLT.

Tune in to feel the energy, and don't miss your chance to be part of history!

What happens when you mix quick thinking, big personalities, and a little competitive chaos? You get March Mayhem.

In this episode of No Small Parts, host Scott Smith sits down with Teen Improv Troupe coaches Lalaina and Kevin to talk about the upcoming improv tournament at Bucyrus Little Theatre. With 14 young improvisers ready to take the stage, this year's show introduces a bracket-style competition inspired by basketball's March Madness, complete with teams, judges, and eliminations as the night unfolds.

Lalaina and Kevin pull back the curtain on how the troupe trains, from fast-paced warm-ups like "Three-Line Scenes" to fan-favorite improv games including Party Quirks, Superheroes, Boris, and Oscar Winning Moment. They also explain the golden rule of improv, "Yes, and…," and why saying "no" can derail a scene.

Along the way, the coaches share how improv helps teens build confidence, creativity, and teamwork while learning to step outside their comfort zones. From imaginative pantomime to audience participation and unpredictable storytelling, every rehearsal is a chance for these young performers to grow, and get a lot of laughs along the way.

If you've ever wondered how improv works, why props aren't needed, or how a group of teenagers can turn complete chaos into comedy, this episode is your backstage pass.

🎭 March Mayhem featuring the Bucyrus Little Theatre Teen Improv Troupe takes place on March 27. Come see which team improvises its way to the championship!

Subscribe to No Small Parts for more conversations celebrating the people, passion, and productions that bring community theatre to life.

Join host Scott Leon Smith and the hilarious cast of Bucyrus Little Theatre's Rumors as they dish on Neil Simon's riotous American farce.

From frantic cover-ups of a deputy mayor's "accident" to car crashes, back spasms, burnt fingers, and wild excuses involving exploding shaving cream cans, this episode is packed with on-stage antics and off-stage camaraderie.

Meet the characters, lawyers, accountants, trophy wives, politicians, and a TV chef, who turn a 10th anniversary party into a whirlwind of lies, gossip, and slapstick. Hear about braving Ohio's brutal winter without heat, the magic of live theater chemistry, and why memorizing those lightning-fast lines feels like herding cats.

Whether you're a theater lover or just need a good laugh, this episode celebrates the heart (and hilarity) of community stages.

Don't miss Rumors February 26–March 1. Grab tickets at bucyruslittletheatre.com.

About Bucyrus Little Theatre

Bucyrus Little Theatre is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Bucyrus, Ohio. The organization exists to educate, entertain, and enlighten audiences in Crawford County and beyond. To learn more about our thriving community theatre, visit www.BucyrusLittleTheatre.com.