Li’l Abner

It’s a typical day in wretched and picturesque Dogpatch, USA, and the local yokels are up to their usual tricks: brewing moonshine, cuddling pigs, and collecting unemployment. Beautiful Daisy Mae is pining after strong handsome Li’l Abner, an unsentimental youth who escapes her pursuit to go fishing. But when Dogpatch is chosen for an atomic test site, and Daisy Mae is claimed in marriage by dirty wrestler Earthquake McGoon, Li’l Abner has to step up and fight for the things he doesn’t know he loves. Guided and guarded by traveling preacher Marryin’ Sam, Li’l Abner travels to Washington, DC, where he tangles with a gaggle of goofy scientists, unscrupulous capitalist General Bullmoose, and scheming minx Appassionata Von Climax. Experience the suspense of a Cornpone Meeting, the romantic free-for-all that is the Sadie Hawkins Day race–where the girls put on their running shoes to catch themselves a groom–and the shenanigans that ensue when a snooty Washington, DC, engagement party is invaded by Hillbillies. Based on Andy Capp’s beloved comic strip, with clever book by Norman Panama and Melvin Frank, and catchy score by Johnny Mercer and Gene de Paul, Li’l Abner is a rousing, bombastic, tuneful American musical, which is equal parts slapstick comedy, knowing government satire, and tale of young love.

The Gladstone Amphitheatre

is located in one of The City of Gladstone’s premier parks, Oak Grove Park, at the corner of NE 76th Street and N Troost (64118).

Here are answers to FAQ’s for your visit to GTIP:

Directions

• PARKING: Parking is FREE! The entrance is located on Troost just north of 76th Street. Handicapped parking is available. You will be directed by the parking attendant. There are also a limited number of head in parking spaces on Troost.
• SEATING: You provide your own chairs and blankets. Press SEATING for the hours and rules for saving spots.
• HOURS: The show begins at 8:30pm, but you may come as early as you like. Bring a picnic and enjoy the atmosphere (alcohol prohibited).
• CONCESSIONS: Food and drink is for sale from the Gladstone Rotary in the brand new permanent concessions and restroom facility next to Oak Park High School’s football field.
• RESTROOMS: There are permanent restroom facilities on both sides of the park.
• HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?: ABSOLUTELY NOTHING! GTIP is proud to be one of the only free community theatre programs. We do appreciate any donations that you make. Look for people with buckets and throw in a few dollars and get a sticker. It is costly to put on these performances so any help you can give is most welcome!