There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when the lights go down in a small-town theater. You can feel it in the hush of the audience, in the way neighbors lean forward in their seats, in the anticipation that something special is about to happen. This September, that magic comes in the form of Fireflies, the latest production at the Tellico Community Playhouse.
Directed by Lisa Silverman, Fireflies is a tender, funny, and gently romantic story that will leave you smiling long after the curtain falls.
A Summer in Groverdell, Texas
The play, written by Matthew Barber, takes us to the quiet town of Groverdell, Texas, in the summer of 1995. Life here moves at a slower pace—neighbors stop to chat at the grocery store, and everyone knows who’s driving down Main Street by the sound of their engine.
At the center of it all is Eleanor Bannister, a retired schoolteacher who lives a perfectly orderly life… until Abel Brown shows up at her door. Abel is charming, a little mysterious, and maybe—just maybe—not telling the whole truth about his past.
Eleanor’s longtime friend and neighbor, Grace Bodell, is quick to take notice and isn’t shy about sharing her opinions. And then there’s Eugene Claymire, who’s been part of Groverdell’s fabric for years. As the summer unfolds, Eleanor finds herself rethinking what it means to live fully, love unexpectedly, and take a chance—no matter your age.
The Team Bringing It to Life
One of the joys of community theater is seeing familiar faces step into new roles. For Fireflies, the Tellico Community Playhouse has assembled a cast of talented locals who know how to make a story feel real:
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Eleanor Bannister – played by Susan Jackson, who brings warmth and quiet strength to the role.
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Abel Brown – played by Tom Ireland, whose easy charm makes you want to trust him… even if you’re not quite sure you should.
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Grace Bodell – played by JoAnn Damiani, adding sharp wit and a good dose of neighborly concern.
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Eugene Claymire – played by Joseph Brown, offering a steady presence with a twinkle in his eye.
Guiding them all is director Lisa Silverman, whose thoughtful approach keeps the heart of the story front and center.
When You Can See It
Fireflies runs for three weekends in September 2025, giving you plenty of chances to catch a performance:
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September 11–13 – Evening shows at 7:30 PM
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September 14 – Matinee at 1:30 PM
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September 18–20 – Evening shows at 7:30 PM
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September 21 – Matinee at 1:30 PM
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September 25–27 – Evening shows at 7:30 PM
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September 28 – Matinee at 1:30 PM
The Playhouse seats just 136 people, so there’s not a bad seat in the house—but that also means tickets can go quickly.
Getting Your Tickets
Tickets are $25 and will be available starting August 11 at noon. You can purchase them online through the Tellico Community Playhouse website or by contacting the box office directly. If you’ve ever tried to snag seats to a popular show here, you know it’s wise to grab them early—especially for weekend performances.
Why This Show Feels Special
There’s something about Fireflies that just feels like it belongs on the Tellico stage. Maybe it’s the way it blends humor and heart. Perhaps it’s the nostalgia of a small-town summer before smartphones and streaming. Or maybe it’s that quiet reminder that love, friendship, and adventure don’t have an expiration date.
It’s also a chance to see local talent shine. These actors are our neighbors, friends, and fellow community members, and their love for the stage is woven into every scene. And in a world that moves so fast, an evening spent with a story like Fireflies is a welcome pause—a couple of hours to slow down, laugh, and maybe even tear up a little.
Make a Night of It
If you’re coming from out of town, Loudon has plenty of spots to grab a bite before the show—whether you’re in the mood for something casual or a sit-down meal. Pair that with an evening at the Playhouse, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect date night or friends’ outing.
Fireflies is more than just a play—it’s a little beam of light in the middle of September. Don’t miss your chance to sit in that warm glow.
Show: Fireflies
When: September 11–28, 2025
Where: Tellico Community Playhouse, 304 Lakeside Plaza, Loudon, TN
Tickets: $25, on sale August 11 at noon at tellicocommunityplayhouse.org