From Conrad Weiser Theatre Company
Pictured above, from left to right: Derek Natale, who plays Papa Bear, Jaide Thomason, who plays Baby Bear, and Cadence Halter, who plays Mama Bear. Photo courtesy of Serena Rae Photography
This fall, Conrad Weiser Theatre Company (CWTC) proudly presents the premiere of Once Upon a Trial, an original one-act play written and directed by Weiser’s own Kelly Snyder. Serving as the kickoff to its 2026-27 season, this brand-new show highlights a true collaborative spirit, with its student cast helping to shape the production from the ground up. Running Friday, Nov. 20, and Saturday, Nov. 21, community members of all ages are invited to experience this exciting debut. Following the performance, young theatergoers can stay for special interactive activities designed just for kids.
Once Upon a Trial imagines what might happen when a famous fairytale figure steps into a tribunal to air their grievances and defend their actions. From misunderstood villains to less-than-perfect heroes, this lighthearted one-act production offers an entertaining, family-friendly twist on the classic tales we all grew up with.
Performances will be Friday, Nov. 20, and Saturday, Nov. 21, at 7 p.m., in the Conrad Weiser High School Auditorium. Admission is pay-what-you-wish. Donations are appreciated, but not required. No advance tickets are necessary. All seats are general admission and available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit cwtheatreco.org, or call the box office at 610-693-8542 ext. 6654 for assistance.
“We are absolutely thrilled to have Kelly Snyder directing this fall. Her teaching career and tenure as a Director of the CWMS Musical for many years made her the perfect choice to create opportunities for our company members who want to both learn more about how to put a show together and make arts even more accessible to our younger students. Having written an original play that our cast is helping to develop has given them the chance to do both, and we are grateful she is leading them through this process,” said CWTC Program Director Hope L. O’Pake.
“This production represents what can happen when students are given the opportunity to contribute not only as performers, but as creative collaborators. Their ideas, personalities, and talents have helped shape this original work, and we are incredibly proud of what they have brought to the stage,” said Playwright & Director Kelly Snyder.
About the Conrad Weiser Theatre Company
Conrad Weiser Theatre Company provides a safe, inclusive environment where students are empowered through theatre to foster personal growth, celebrate individual talent, and enrich our local community. Guided by a commitment to artistic excellence, accessibility, and collaboration, CWTC strives to create meaningful performance experiences for students and audiences alike.
For more information about the Conrad Weiser Theatre Company and its 2026 fall production, please visit cwtheatreco.org or its Facebook page @cwtheatreco.
