Little Theatre of Manchester Announces One-Night-Only Performance

The PINE STREET PLAYERS present

Legend of the Black Duck

A Thriller Based On A True Story by Local Author Walt Scadden

September 16 Performance to Benefit
Veterans' Projects in Manchester

Manchester, CT - Little Theatre of Manchester, one of Connecticut's oldest community theaters still in operation, is elated to announce a special cooperative presentation with Pine Street Players coming to the Cheney Hall stage this September. The Pine Street Players will present The Legend of the Black Duck by Walt Scadden as a benefit for veterans' projects in Manchester. Based on the true story of the notorious attack on the Black Duck rumrunner, this compelling tale will be performed on Friday, September 16 at 7 p.m. at the National Historic Landmark Cheney Hall located at 177 Hartford Road in Manchester, CT.

The basic facts are not in dispute. On Dec 29, 1929, at 2:15 a.m. at the entrance of Newport Harbor, a Coast Guard Patrol boat opened fire without provocation on the 50ft. rumrunner Black Duck. From here stories changed, identities were forged, and the truth lay submerged for 50 years — until a researcher meets a mysterious old sea captain who knows more than it seems. On September 16, unlock the secrets of the Black Duck and decide for yourself who and what to believe. Based on the short story, also written by celebrated local author Walt Scadden.

"No event in coastal New England history has left an imprint like the Black Duck
incident," shared playwright Scadden. "Ninety-plus years have done little to erase the memories of the tragic event. From the elderly grandmother working the local charity clam bake and fish fry to the kid pumping gas at the town dock, everyone who has heard the story has a strong opinion."

The cast will include Greg Sheffield as The Writer, Craig Jensen as the Old Sea Captain, and Jamie Donahue in the role of Stage Manager.

This special performance is a cooperative effort between the Little Theatre of Manchester and the Pine Street Players to benefit veterans' projects in Manchester. Tickets for all seats are $20, on sale now. To reserve, visit CheneyHall.org or call (860) 647-9824 or visit the Cheney Hall box office Tuesday through Friday from 10am to 4pm.

COVID Safety Protocols

Masks are no longer required (but strongly recommended) for all patrons. Individuals should wear a mask based on their personal preferences and risk level. As a condition of being permitted to Cheney Hall, all patrons age 12 or older must comply with our Patron Vaccination Status Attestation. For updated COVID safety protocols, visit cheneyhall.org/safety.