This Halloween will see an extra dose of scary at The Renaissance Theatre with “A Haunted Tour of Mansylvania,” the latest installment of the popular Mansfield Town Roast.
After more than 20 years in existence, the Mansfield Town Roast serves as a way to “spoof” Mansfield and its happenings over the past couple years. Michael Miller, President and CEO of the Renaissance Performing Arts Association who helped write and direct this year’s show, said it’s been two years since the last roast. This year’s theme centers around a “haunted tour of Mansfield.”
“You’ll have an emcee and a family of four coming to Mansfield to explore what Mansfield has to offer, and basically they find out there’s just these haunted sites and mystery surrounding Mansfield,” said Miller. “It’s really like a musical play the entire show, we deal with everything you might think that’s happened that is newsworthy event in the past two years.”
Miller said there are 13 songs within this year’s show; all recognizable Broadway songs with funny lyrics substituted that touch on 13 events that have happened in Mansfield the past few years. In between musical numbers, the cast of about 25 people will keep the audience entertained with humor.
“There are a couple people who have acted, but these are all people involved in the community and community leaders,” said Miller. “It’s a chance for people to make a fool of themselves.”
The roast will take place on Friday, Oct. 31 starting at 8 p.m. at the Renaissance Theatre. Tickets are $25, with $55 Patron seats available that include preferred seating, an invitation to the pre-show Patron party, and recognition in the Town Roast program book. All proceeds from the roast will benefit The Rehab Center.
Miller pointed out the show is not a “panel” style roast, and while certainly not as racy as those you might see on Comedy Central he recommended audience members be 15 years old and up. He said the content is not meant to be offensive, and any jokes that may feel “too soon” are pulled from the show.
“We’re not trying to offend anyone, we’re trying to make light of it,” said Miller. “I always feel if you make light of a bad situation you can improve upon it. Mansfield is a great city and we always have a positive end to the show. We want people to know this is a great place to live.”
Yes, even through a zombie apocalypse in the second act, the show has a positive ending.
Miller also noted interpreters will be present to interpret the entire show for those with hearing disabilities, and audience members dressing in Halloween costumes is highly encouraged. Community members of all ages are invited to poke fun at current issues and in general, have a great time.
“If you can’t laugh at yourself, you shouldn’t attend,” said Miller.
