The Spitfire Grill at The Umbrella Arts Center

Based on the beloved film that took home the Audience Award at The Sundance Film Festival, The Umbrella Stage Company’s The Spitfire Grill follows the journey of Percy Talbott, a spirited young woman who perseveres through personal hardship, violence and incarceration to seek redemption in rural Wisconsin. But in the small town of Gilead, she finds so much more – a second chance in a new community that she in turn transforms forever.

The production is helmed by award-winning Director/Choreographer Ilyse Robbins, whose recent projects include last season’s Lizzie at The Umbrella, Noises Off (Lyric Stage), and the Elliot Norton Award-winning All is Calm (Greater Boston Stage Company) among others. The show’s rich score by James Valcq and Fred Alley is marked by Americana folk rhythms, soaring melodies, and irresistible charm.

Percy Talbott is a spirited young woman seeking redemption. But in the small town of Gilead, she finds so much more. Based on the beloved film that took home the Audience Award at The Sundance Film Festival, the musical’s rich score is marked by Americana folk rhythms, soaring melodies, and irresistable charm. It reminds us all about the resilience of the human spirit, the magic of new beginnings, and the power of community.

Says Producing Artistic Director Brian Boruta, “The Spitfire Grill is one of those hidden gems that are rarely produced. Its focus on community, rediscovery, and transformation will uplift the spirit, and its soaring score will satisfy the soul. I can’t wait for audiences to discover, or rediscover The Spitfire Grill.”

The show runs Apr. 25-May 18 (press opening Sunday Apr. 27, 3:00PM),  and select performances will feature engagement opportunities:

• Dinner & A Show packages are available for all Thursday night performances
• Talk Backs scheduled following select performances
• Childcare with art activities for youth ages 5-12 is available through The Umbrella’s Kid Care program for the Sunday, May 4, 2025 5:30PM performance

“…soul-satisfying…freeing…penetrated by honesty and it glows.” – The New York Times

“Soulful…the amiable country-flavored tunes and lyrics are rendered with the kind of conviction and expertise that make them transcendent…sheer nourishment.” – New York Magazine

Presented by The Umbrella Stage Company, Concord, MA, Apr 25 – May 18, 2025. Directed by Ilyse Robbins

Authors

• Fred Alley
• James Valcq