Deersville Community Players keep stage and spirit alive

In the heart of one of Harrison County’s most historic villages, the Deersville Community Players continue to shine—celebrating live theater and the enduring bonds of creativity, volunteerism and community.

Led by current president Marsha Dodds, the group is entirely volunteer-run and operates out of the Deersville Community Hall, a landmark building with theatrical roots dating back to 1913. That year, the original Deersville Dramatic Club held its first performances, launching a local arts tradition that has thrived for more than a century.

“We’re a completely volunteer-run group,” Dodds said. The organization’s leadership structure includes a board of directors, a programming board and trustees.

Each year, the Players produce three major shows, along with open mic nights, concerts and historical presentations. Their most recent production, The Wizard of Oz, featured 56 cast members, ranging in age from 3 to 87.

“We typically have around 100 active participants annually,” Dodds said. “Most are residents from Harrison and Tuscarawas counties who are just looking to have fun and try something creative.”

Membership is open to all. Only dues-paying members may vote during membership meetings. The next general meeting is scheduled for November, and dues are accepted through Jan. 31.

Productions involve a rigorous but rewarding rehearsal schedule, typically three evenings per week for up to 12 weeks. Play selection is a collaborative effort. Interested directors pitch ideas in January, and members vote on the season’s lineup. Copyrights are secured through formal licensing agencies.

The Deersville Community Hall has a legacy as rich as the performances it hosts. In 1917, proceeds from drama club ticket sales helped fund the building’s construction. Though it eventually fell into disrepair, the hall was restored in 1985 with the help of a Community Development Block Grant. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004 and remains the only designated historic district in Harrison County.

Much of the Players’ modern-day success is credited to longtime leaders Joyce and Clarence Lannum, who dedicated more than 20 years to directing performances and managing logistics. In 2021, the Players officially became owners of the building and gained 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. Their mission now includes maintaining the hall and producing quality entertainment for surrounding communities.

In recent years, the group has secured several grants from the Ohio Arts Council, Harrison County Tourism Council, the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio and multiple community development programs. A 2023 grant funded major exterior renovations, including new siding, fascia and gutters.

“We have been incredibly fortunate to receive grants,” Dodds said. “With these funds, our own fundraising efforts and the generosity of our patrons and donors, the Deersville Community Players and the Deersville Community Hall will continue to thrive for years to come. We are grateful for the continued support from our community.”

Beyond the stage, the hall remains a central fixture in Deersville. It regularly hosts community dinners, bridal and baby showers, and family gatherings. Deersville resident and group member Penelope Clark said the hall is essential to the local community and helps bring a sense of pride and unity to the small village.

The Players are always seeking new volunteers.

“We are always excited to have new people join us in any capacity they desire,” Dodds said. “On stage or behind the scenes, we work to find a place where people of all ages, talents and abilities feel confident and comfortable.”

For more information or to get involved, email deersvillecommunitytheatre@gmail.com or send a message on Facebook at DeersvilleCommunityTheatre.