Avon Theater Group's Storytelling Event Delivers On All Fronts

Playhouse 44

AVON, CT — If laughter, tears, and applause are reliable indicators, Playhouse 44’s second night of storytelling was a tremendous success.

The Avon-based, not-for-profit performing arts group sponsored “Relatively Speaking: The Fun and Folly of Family Gatherings” on April 30, in which nine performers shared true tales of family get-togethers.

Fellowship Hall at the Avon Congregational Church was packed with several dozen attendees who heard the comedy and calamity, surprises and revelations, ups and downs of holiday dinners, family celebrations, and other such events.

It was an evening of mixed emotions that reminded the audience of how effective live storytelling can be.

“This was such a fun and welcoming community event where everyone felt engaged and free to be themselves,” said storyteller Michael Guerrera. “It was my first attempt, and I wasn’t sure how my story, which carried a lot of emotional weight, would land—or even if I’d make it through. But it went better than I could have hoped for."

"I have a very old family gathering memory that I rarely share," added storyteller Kate Buffone. "Sharing it that night was not only invigorating, but made me realize that things happen for a reason, and that happy endings are always possible. The audience validated that feeling for me."

The evening was free of charge, with donations requested to help Playhouse 44 fund some of its future projects.

The all-volunteer group was founded in 2023 to bring affordable, accessible, enjoyable entertainment to the local community.

At many of its events, Playhouse 44 also collects food and household goods to donate to Gifts of Love, a local charity that helps individuals and families in need on their road to self-sufficiency.

At “Relatively Speaking,” the group collected more than a hundred items.

“We’re currently planning our performance calendar through the end of the year,” said Joel Samberg, president of Playhouse 44. “We hope to be able to return to our theatrical roots soon, but in the meantime, our audiences have had so much fun with other cultural events that chances are high we’ll do another storytelling night soon."

To watch the 'Relatively Speaking' show, click on this link.

From April 24: 'Family Fun, Folly Topic Of Avon Theater Event'