GENTRY, AR — Gentry High School Theatre, under the direction of Josh McBride, is proud to announce its 2025 season, featuring two well-loved productions that highlight character, personal growth, and the power of strong storytelling. Students and audiences will enjoy a rich blend of meaningful drama and classic musical theater, with opportunities for family-friendly entertainment and student development.
This fall, the theatre department will present The Outsiders, adapted by Christopher Sergel from the beloved novel by S.E. Hinton. First published in 1967, the story follows Ponyboy Curtis and his close-knit group of friends as they navigate the challenges of growing up, staying true to their values, and overcoming differences in a divided world. The stage version emphasizes loyalty, resilience, and the importance of understanding others—timeless lessons that continue to resonate today.
This well-known story is currently enjoying renewed attention with a Broadway musical adaptation, offering a unique connection between Gentry students and the national stage. Auditions for The Outsiders will take place after school on August 18, 19, and 20 and are open to high school students.
In the spring, Gentry Theatre will present the beloved Broadway musical Guys and Dolls, written by Frank Loesser, Jo Swerling, and Abe Burrows. Set in 1950s New York, this lighthearted, family-appropriate comedy follows two men who must choose between their old ways and a new life rooted in honesty and commitment. With cheerful music, heartfelt messages, and classic characters like missionary Sarah Brown and performer Miss Adelaide, the show blends wholesome fun with meaningful themes about love, redemption, and doing what’s right.
Auditions for Guys and Dolls will be August 25, 26, 27, and 28 and are open to both high school and middle school students.
Audition sign-up sheets will be posted on the auditorium doors when school resumes.
“This season gives our students the chance to grow as performers and as young people,” said Josh McBride, Theatre Director at Gentry High School. Now in his fourth year at Gentry, McBride continues to lead a program that focuses on student development, teamwork, and storytelling with purpose. “We’re looking forward to sharing these meaningful stories with our school and community.”
For more information about auditions or upcoming performances, contact Josh McBride at jmcbride@gentrypioneers.com, and you can follow Gentry Theatre on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573081145608
Also -- You can read more about the successful 2024-25 school year for our Gentry Fine Arts programs here: https://www.gentrypioneers.com/article/2265812