The Spitfire Grill at Eclipse Grange Theatre, Thetford Hill

With music and book by James Valcq and lyrics and book by Fred Alley, the musical is based on
the film by Lee David Zlotoff and is known for its warmth, intimacy, and hopeful message.
Set in a small rural town not unlike our own, The Spitfire Grill tells the story of a young woman
seeking a fresh start who arrives in Gilead, Wisconsin, and unexpectedly helps renew a
struggling community. Centered around a local diner where neighbors gather, the show explores
redemption, resilience, and the power of connection.
Richard Waterhouse, who appeared in last season’s A Man of No Importance, directs the
production, with Amanda Rafuse as Associate Director and Carol Cronce as Music Director. Jenn
Argenti and Toni Egger produce, with Perry Allison serving as Founder and Producing Artistic
Director.
This marks the company’s first performance in the Thetford Hill venue.
Here’s what director Richard Waterhouse says about this show- “The Spitfire Grill is a profound
exploration of acceptance and the beautiful, messy process of building a chosen family. My
hope is that audiences leave the theater feeling a little less alone and a lot more connected to the
people around them.”
Amanda Rafuse, the Associate Director says- ““What excites me most about The Spitfire Grill is
the opportunity to gather our community in a shared, intimate space and let this story land close
to the heart— by bringing the audience near the action in this immersive, in-the-round staging
we’re inviting them not just to watch, but to feel themselves inside the story. My hope is that
people leave reminded of the power of kindness and the strength we find in one another.”

Founded in 2017, We the People Theatre produces musical theatre in the Upper Valley.