Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is getting ready to kick off its 31st Super Summer Theatre season.
The productions will begin June 14 and will wrap up on Sept. 23. This year's shows include "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer," "Return to the Forbidden Planet," "Bells Are Ringing" and "Noises Off."
The first play of the season, "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer," is a musical based on the shenanigans of Mark Twain's classic character, while "Return to the Forbidden Planet" is being compared to William Shakespeare's "The Tempest," set to 1950s rock 'n' roll. "Bells Are Ringing" is a Broadway musical that follows the comedic experiences of the guests and employees at a hotel, revolving around a telephone switchboard operator.
The last of the four productions, "Noises Off," is a comical drama rated PG, a first for the heavily family orientated venue. It is likened to a Neil Simon play, said Mary Gafford, a longtime volunteer and member of the Super Summer Theatre board of directors.
"Noises Off" is "a play in a play, it's supposed to be pretty funny," Gafford said.
Those involved are expecting another fun and memorable season this year. Last year, there were more 33,000 attendees as the nonprofit theater group celebrated its 30th anniversary, which was full of celebratory activities.
"We like to stress the fact that we provide affordable family entertainment," Gafford said. "We also bring culture to the area."
Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is located in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, off of state Route 159 -- West Charleston Boulevard -- about 15 miles west of the Las Vegas Beltway.
Since Super Summer Theatre is a nonprofit organization, organizers are always looking for ways to raise funds, but they've found that one of the most successful methods is openly asking for donations at performances.
"We have a segment of time we call 'pass the hat,' and that's where the funding of the handicapped parking came from, along with the funding for many other things," Gafford said.
During the plays, audience members are welcome to spread out blankets and enjoy the slightly cooler temperatures and the wildlife that roams around.
"A lot of families bring picnics. I've seen it all, from a simple picnic to caviar and wine. Sometimes a bunny will just come right up to the edge of a blanket and look up at you, like he's politely asking for some food," Gafford said laughing. "And if you take a walk, you'll probably see some burros. It's just a great, calming place."
Ray Eicher, also a member of the board of directors and longtime volunteer, said he enjoys his involvement with the group for many reasons, but mainly because of the community-oriented aspect.
"It's a fun experience," he said. "I get enjoyment out of seeing the kids' faces after seeing live entertainment for the first time. And it's nice to be part of something that serves the community. It's a great feeling."
Tickets can be purchased in advance for $8 per person -- except for "Noises Off," which will cost $10 -- at UNLV's Performing Arts Center Box Office and at Prestige Travel on the corner of Rampart and Lake Mead boulevards. Tickets also can be purchased on the day of the show at the park for $10 per person.
Chairs can be rented for $1. Show-related merchandise, such as hats and trinkets, are sold, and basic concession stand snacks can be purchased, as well.
As many of the shows sell out, Eicher suggests that people who have not bought tickets in advance check to see if the show is sold out before driving to the park. The $6 park entrance fee is waived for theater attendees.
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