The Spitfire Grill
Feb. 27 - March 15, 2026
Music and Book by James Valcq
Lyrics and Book by Fred Alley
Director: James Valcq
Music Director: Janna Vinson
Conductor: David Bonofiglio
Sponsored by
Pam Kriger and Family
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, The Spitfire Grill makes a welcome return to the Cabot Stage. Percy Talbot, fresh out of prison, seeks a fresh start in Gilead, Wisconsin, finding solace and community at Hannah's struggling Spitfire Grill. When Hannah proposes a "write a letter, win the grill" contest, the town's secrets and dreams are stirred. This poignant musical, filled with folk-infused melodies, explores themes of redemption, second chances, and the power of human connection. Skylight is honored to have this anniversary production directed by James Valcq, the composer and co-book writer, bringing a unique and authentic vision to this beloved Wisconsin-born tale. Join us for an unforgettable theatrical homecoming.
Recommended for ages 13 and up.
Estimated Runtime: 2 Hours and 15 Minutes (including the15 minute intermission)
Cast:
Percy Talbott — Micah Friedman
Hannah Ferguson — Suzanne Graff*
Sheriff Joe Sutter — Frankie Breit
Effy Krayneck — Rhonda Rae Busch
Shelby Thorpe — Rachael Zientek
Caleb Thorpe — Nathan Marinan
The Stranger — Darren L. Green
Musicians:
Conductor/Keys— David Bonofiglio
Accordion — Sacia Jerome
Guitar/Mandolin — Fred Pike
Violin — Pamela Simmons
Cello — Ryan Fitzpatrick
Creative Team:
Directed by James Valcq
Music Direction by Janna Vinson
Scenic Designer — Jonathan Berg-Einhorn
Costume Designer — Michelle Therese Grimm
Lighting Designer — Alan Piotrowicz
Sound Designer — John Tanner
Production Stage Manager — Karly Amato*
Assistant Stage Manager — Kian Arnold
Intimacy and Fight Director — Marcee Doherty 
*Appearing through an agreement between Skylight Music Theatre and Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.
Write a Letter, Win Skylight Tickets!
In The Spitfire Grill, a “write a letter, win the grill” contest cultivates hundreds of responses from community members new and old. From historic memories, funny stories, and deeply personal and meaningful explanations, the town’s secrets and dreams are stirred.
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Inspired by this beautiful moment, we’re inviting you to share your own story with Skylight Music Theatre! ​
How to Participate
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Those who submit a letter will be entered for a chance to win a pair of tickets to an upcoming Skylight production! Winners will be drawn on the closing night of The Spitfire Grill on Sunday, March 15th and contacted via email and phone.
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Choose any of the following ways to submit your letter:
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Complete this form
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Send an email to marketing@skylightmusictheatre.org
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Mail your letter (must be received by March 15, 2026)
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ATTN: Marketing
Skylight Music Theatre
158 N Broadway Floor 4
Milwaukee, WI 53202
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Drop off your letter with the Box Office:
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Monday - Friday: Noon – 6:00 pm & two hours before curtain
Weekends: Noon - curtain call when performances are scheduled
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Writing Prompts
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If you’ve joined us at Skylight Music Theatre, tell us:
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What does Skylight Music Theatre mean to you?
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What are some of your favorite Skylight Music Theatre memories?
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If you have not joined us yet, we’d still love to hear from you:
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How have the performing arts impacted your life? ​
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Why Your Story Matters
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Whether you’ve joined us before or not, your story matters — like in The Spitfire Grill, letters have the power to share memories, stir dreams, and bring our community together.
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We can’t wait to read yours!