Our Town is showing here at Parkway Playhouse May 23-June 1, 2025! We reached out to actor Owen Thurber, who is portraying Sam Craig, about their experience working on this production.
What’s your favorite part of this show and why?
The way the characters and town are so similar to “real life”. You’re able to identify characters that remind you of your sister, your son, your mom, and so on. You’re able to look at the relationships, the struggles, the scenery, and relate them to yourself and your life. It’s not like you’re watching something on TV about a life you couldn’t even fathom; you’re watching a story that could very well be the true life story of your neighbor down the road.
What about this show do you think will stick with audiences?
The community. This time in WNC is very much filled with a sense of community since the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, and I think this show really capitalizes on that feeling. I think the audience will leave with tears in their eyes, a heart that feels whole, and a stronger love for their neighbors and this area.

How excited are you to be working with this incredible cast?
So excited. My main reason for starting back into a theatre journey was to make new friends and connections in the area, and I have 100% accomplished that and hope to do so even more throughout the rest of this show.
What have you loved about working on this production?
Witnessing the talent of everyone involved. Everyone in this production has such a unique skill set, and it has been amazing seeing them utilize those skill sets to make a truly magical production.
How did you get into theatre?
I got into theatre through choir. My first production was a middle school production of the musical “Operatunists”, and despite the silly theme and the fact that I was the only genderbent character (it was the only way for me to get a solo), I really did fall in love with theatre because of it. There’s really nothing else like a team of people coming together to do fancy make-believe and sharing that with others. It’s my favorite art form through and through.

What’s your favorite thing to do in the area?
I’m actually not from Burnsville! I have yet to really explore the area, but I’m hoping I have more opportunities through the time I’ll be spending there for the Parkway Playhouse productions. My favorite thing to do in the general WNC area is bar hopping haha.
What have you loved so far about working with Parkway Playhouse?
Everything, but mainly the people. I’m not very well-versed in theatre, and I probably have some of the least amount of experience doing it within the cast, but despite that-everyone has been extremely supportive in helping me grow as an actor and overall performer. I’ve learned a lot, and I learn more every rehearsal.

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