Crighton Theatre stages Of Mice and Men

**Steinbeck’s “Of Mice and Men” Brings Powerful Drama to Conroe’s Crighton Theatre**

CONROE, TX – The dust and despair of the Great Depression will settle over downtown Conroe this October, as The Players Theatre Company presents John Steinbeck’s timeless and powerful drama, “Of Mice and Men,” at the historic Crighton Theatre for two weekends. The highly anticipated production promises to immerse audiences in a classic American tale of dreams, friendship, and the harsh realities of life.

The play is set to open on Friday, October 20, at 8 p.m., with additional performances Saturday, October 21, at 8 p.m., and a Sunday matinee on October 22 at 2 p.m. The run continues the following weekend, with evening shows on Friday, October 27, and Saturday, October 28, both at 8 p.m., concluding with a final Sunday matinee on October 29 at 2 p.m.

Directed by Katie Reed, “Of Mice and Men” follows the poignant journey of two migrant farmhands, the sharp-witted George Milton, portrayed by Joe Clark, and the mentally challenged but physically strong Lennie Small, played by Dale Trimble. Their unlikely friendship and shared dream of owning a small piece of land form the emotional core of the narrative, highlighting universal themes of loneliness, the elusive American Dream, and the heartbreaking sacrifices often demanded by unforgiving circumstances.

“Bringing ‘Of Mice and Men’ to the stage is always a profound experience,” said Director Katie Reed. “Steinbeck’s work is incredibly relevant, even today, in its exploration of human connection, desperation, and the pursuit of a dream against all odds. Our aim is to capture the stark, grim reality of the era and ensure that the play’s well-known tragic conclusion resonates deeply and authentically with every audience member.”

The cast features a strong ensemble, including William “Bill” R. Wood as the aging and wise Candy, Jeff Johnson as the isolated stable buck Crooks, Hannah Smith as the lonely and misunderstood Curley’s Wife, and Sam Champagne as the aggressive Curley.

Joe Clark, who not only stars as George but also contributes to the lighting design, spoke about the profound connection between his character and Lennie. “Playing George is a tremendous responsibility. He carries the weight of their shared dream and the burden of protecting Lennie. Dale and I have worked hard to build that palpable bond on stage, making their friendship the anchor of the entire story.”

The production team also includes Clint Campbell, who masterfully handles the set design, creating the desolate landscapes of 1930s California, with Sarah Wilson serving as stage manager and Alan Clark managing sound.

This particular production marks a significant moment for The Players Theatre Company. Typically performing at the more intimate Owen Theatre, the company has utilized the larger and more expansive Crighton Theatre for this classic work. “Moving to the Crighton for ‘Of Mice and Men’ reflects the scale and anticipated draw of Steinbeck’s masterpiece,” noted a spokesperson for The Players Theatre Company. “It allows us to reach a broader audience and truly bring the grandeur and gravity of this story to life on a larger canvas, offering an even more immersive experience for our patrons.”

Tickets for “Of Mice and Men” are priced at $28 and can be conveniently purchased online at crightontheatre.org. They will also be available for purchase directly at the Crighton Theatre box office an hour before each scheduled performance. Don’t miss this powerful and enduring piece of American theatre, promising an unforgettable journey into the heart of Steinbeck’s world right here in Conroe.