The Lamplight Theater Company: Shining Their Light on Stage

By Mary Casey-Sturk

In the heart of Madeira, a warm and inviting community spirit is alive and flourishing at The Lamplight Theater Company. Launched in 2024, this vibrant team of volunteers is on a mission to share their passion for the performing arts and strengthen community bonds through theater. Co-founded by Mary Beth Davis and Susan Deyo, Lamplight was born out of a shared love for creativity, connection, and the transformative power of storytelling.

A Heartfelt Beginning

The Lamplight Theater Company held its inaugural performance in November 2024, presenting a beloved classic story in an immersive and fresh new way with “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play.”   Starting in the parking lot, guests discovered a parked 1930-31 Ford courtesy of the Ohio Valley Region Model A Ford Club.  As guests approached the theatre doors, a sign, “You are Now in Bedford Falls,” framed by Edison-bulb lights like in the streets in the movie, let everyone know they were arriving at something different.  Inside guests could enjoy homemade cookies in a beautiful concessions area, a photo booth opportunity with a life-size car cut-out of George Bailey’s 1919 Dodge Brothers Touring car, and then were able to enter the theatre area as if passing through a door under a lighted Martini’s sign, like in the movie.  As the audience settled into their seats, the air filled with the delightful harmony and charm of the classic songs from ‘The Andrews Sisters’ and the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and delicious Italian dinner, featuring a local favorite, Ferrari’s.  The soft glow of tabletop dinner lamps illuminated the cozy interior, creating an intimate atmosphere.  Guests were invited to dress in 1940’s/50’s attire adding to the experience of stepping back in time.  At the end of the play, the audience participated in the celebratory scene with a toast that takes place in the Bailey house, where brother Harry Bailey says, “to my brother, George, the richest man in town”.  Following this successful sold-out debut, Lamplight returned in June 2025, with the heartwarming comedy “The Curious Savage,” once again drawing in audiences eager for a shared, immersive experience.

A Community Effort

As a young non-profit community theatre, Lamplight relies on volunteers to build its foundation.  From cast to crew, Davis’ vision is evident as everyone pours their time and talent into bringing each play alive and making it memorable for guests, their friends, and family. The theatre’s operations rely on ticket sales, memberships, and donations from supporters to ensure that the lights stay on and creativity continues to flourish.

In a recent conversation with the co-founder, President, and producer, Mary Beth Davis, she shared insights into the journey of Lamplight Theater. “My background has been in all things science and art and creating, especially experiences for others.  If you could step into your favorite movie – even for a few minutes – why wouldn’t you?”, Davis explained, the joy in her voice palpable. Her passion for science and the arts began at a young age, nurtured within a supportive family and church environment that shaped her love for performance, creating and exploring how things work.  “This is why it gives us such pleasure to extend such an environment with the performing arts to support the journey with others that we all share.”

Davis, along with the support of Deyo, Charlie Rader, Pia Rader and Leslie DeVoe, leaped to establish Lamplight. With seed money for some starter equipment and a shared vision, the platform for artistic expression in the heart of historic Madeira is coming alive.  “Before being a community theatre was even a thought, I wanted to put on a production of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’ but quickly realized I didn’t have the resources that local community theatres typically have,” Davis noted. However, with passion and determination, this group was propelled forward, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

A Name with Meaning

When it came to naming the theater, Davis found inspiration in the concept of light. “I wanted it to remind people that light doesn’t just shine out from within, but also draws people to it,” she shared, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. The name “Lamplight” signifies safety, warmth, and vision—qualities that resonate deeply with the theater’s mission. “It’s about being on a journey together,” Davis explained, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that defines the theater’s base.

Creating a Family Atmosphere

One of the most beautiful aspects of Lamplight is the sense of welcoming and family it cultivates. “The church also has desire and belief in the healing power of the arts, which we wholeheartedly agree with,” Davis stated. The theater has become a sanctuary for its actors and volunteers, providing a supportive and affirming environment where they can express themselves and grow and in turn provide quality arts to the community”.

As the community continues to hear about The Lamplight Theater Company, the Lamplight family grows. “You can’t help it; you become a family,” Davis said, reflecting on the connections being forged among its cast and crew. “Before you know it, they’re saying things like, ‘I found a new family’ or ‘I really like this theatre’.” This sense of belonging extends to the audience as well, creating a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at home “you have something special here,” and “we can’t wait for your next production”.

Davis acknowledges the sensitivity surrounding the theatre’s location within a church. “We know that some people have had bad experiences in church and may not want to be near one,” she said. “We want people to feel free to come into the building and enjoy our plays without any expectations.” This commitment to hospitality and nurturing relationships with their audience fosters an inclusive environment where all are welcome.

Join the Journey

As The Lamplight Theater Company prepares for its upcoming production of the beloved Charles Dickens’ tale, “A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play,” Nov 7 – 9 and 14 – 16, the community is invited to join in the excitement. Imagine the festive scents of cinnamon and pine wafting through the air, the sounds of carols upon arriving at the parking lot,  and the twinkling lights that evoke the warmth of the holiday season. Whether you’re interested in auditioning, supporting the theater, or simply enjoying a night of community theater, The Lamplight Theater Company opens its doors wide and welcomes you.

Visit www.LamplightTheater.org to learn more, get involved, or reserve your seats for the upcoming performances. The Lamplight Theater Company can’t wait to welcome you into their family, where every show is an immersive celebration of community, creativity, and the warmth of togetherness.