Players by the Sea, Jacksonville Beach’s community theatre, is celebrating its 60th season. Since its founding in 1966, the theatre has been a cultural cornerstone to the Jacksonville Beach community and the surrounding area, delivering performances that inspire, challenge and unite audiences from all walks of life.
“Season 60 is a unique celebration of hope, joy and togetherness,” said Bradley Akers, managing director. “This line-up highlights the power of human connection, bringing to life characters who discover resilience, humor and purpose through the bonds they build. Each story reminds us of the magic of shared experiences and the inspiration we find in one another.”
“Funny Girl” will open the season beginning on Friday, Feb. 21. This true-to-life musical journey of Fanny Brice blends laughter, love and show-stopping tunes like “Don’t Rain on My Parade” and “People.”
Following that, it’s the Northeast Florida premier of “Waitress” the musical (May 2-18). Waitress and expert pie maker Jenna navigates the challenges of an unfulfilling marriage and dreams of a fresh start. With the help of her quirky co-workers and surprising new love, she imagines a sweeter life.
After that, “Ripcord” (June 13-22), a comical play that takes place in a senior living facility pits two feisty women, Marilyn and Abby, against each other in a battle of wits, pranks and surprising revelations.
Next, “Disaster!” strikes (July 11-27) with a 1970s disco fever musical that causes much chaos from one ridiculous disaster to another. From songs like “I Will Survive” to “Hot Stuff,” this show is described as a wild ride.
Following that is “The White Chip” (Sept. 19-28), a play about a charismatic theatre director who struggles with addiction and is on a quest for redemption. Through raw humor and insight, this show offers deeply relatable storytelling.
In “The Play That Goes Wrong,” another comical play, a theatre troupe attempts to stage a murder mystery — except everything that can go wrong, does go wrong. This sidesplitting theatrical experience will leave you continuously laughing.
Last but not least and to close out Season 60 is “Sister Act.” Based on the Touchstone Pictures motion picture, this story is a celebration of music, sisterhood and the power of finding your voice in the most unexpected places.
Season 60 subscriptions are now available for purchase. Go to https://playersbythesea.org/2025-season or call the box office at 904-249-0289.
For nearly 60 years, Players by the Sea has presented productions that are engaging, thought-provoking, emotionally stimulating and entertaining through the extraordinary support and dedication from community volunteers — actors, directors, designers, backstage crews, carpenters, visual artists, etc. Boasting two theatre spaces — a 150-seat Mainstage Theatre and an 80-seat Studio Theatre — Players by the Sea is an artistic home for anyone who wants to engage with the community through interactive and incredible storytelling.
