Area Community Theatre: “The One That Got Away” opens May 7th at ACT in Tomah

Tomah, Wis. April 14, 2026 – Area Community Theatre (ACT) in Tomah is set to perform the play, “The One That Got Away,” a comedy by Eddie McPherson, opening on May 7 and is directed by Amanda and Jason Schmock.

In “The One That Got Away” a headline in the state newspaper reads, “Annual Fishing Tournament Expecting Record Number of Female Participants.” This news is great for women who love the sport of fishing. It’s even better news for men who love the sport of “picking up chicks.” When Brad, played by Shannon Wilcox and his buddies, hear the news, they pack their backpacks and head to Weiss Lake where the tournament is being held. Because the guys know that the women at the tournament will be impressed with men who exude expert fishing knowledge, they conduct research by picking up a couple of fishing magazines at the local Seven Eleven. They figure by the time the “chicks” find out the men know nothing about fishing they have already won them over with their “charm and animal magnetism.” But when one of the men’s inept cousin tags along and accidentally spills the beans to the women about the men’s intentions, the weekend becomes more than anyone bargained for. And then Brad’s fiancée shows up. The women have a plan to put the ego filled fellows in their place – – and it’s not going to be pretty.

The cast includes Loren Sauter as Annie, Sue Paulis as Blair, Emily Shields as Madeline, Jordyn Prise as Donna, Rachel Von Der Ehe as Carol, Shannon Wilcox as Brad, Christian Bauer as Geordie, Jason Schmock as Max, Chris Suzda as Harold and Charlie Shields as Clive.

Come and enjoy some of the best acting that local community theatre has to offer.

Performances will be held on May 7, 8, 14, 15, & 16 at 7pm and matinees on May 9, 10 & 17 at 1pm at the Area Community Theatre. Tickets are on sale now. Ticket prices are $20 for adults and $10 for students and can be purchased at www.tomahact.com.

ACT is proud to announce it’s 2026 season to also include the shows “Peter and the Star Catcher” with auditions coming up on May 10-12 and show dates July 30-August 2 & 6-9, “Moon Over Buffalo” September 17-20 & October 1-4, and “Perfect Wedding” November 5-8 & 12-15. Be watching the ACT

Facebook page for audition and ticket details.

For more information, call 608-374-7469, visit the Business Office at 901 Kilbourn Avenue Tomah or check out the webpage www.tomahact.com.

About ACT: For over 50 years, the Area Community Theatre in Tomah has been dedicated to providing quality entertainment from the many talents of the Tomah region. All productions are produced, directed and performed by local volunteers. The theatre produces five productions a year in a variety of genres including comedies, dramas and musicals.