THE BATTLE OF SHALLOWFORD COMES FULL CIRCLE WITH ORIGINAL CAST MEMBER RICHARD NOWELL DIRECTING
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THE BATTLE OF SHALLOWFORD COMES FULL CIRCLE WITH ORIGINAL CAST MEMBER RICHARD NOWELL DIRECTING;
ORIGINAL PLAYWRIGHT ED SIMPSON TO JOIN SPECIAL JUNE 6 TALKBACK
Fast-Paced Comedy Inspired by the Infamous “War of the Worlds” Broadcast Runs June 5–21
St. Augustine, Fla., May 21, 2026 - Limelight Theatre is proud to present The Battle of Shallowford, a hilarious and high-energy comedy with a unique theatrical connection to its own history. The production, running June 5 through June 21, 2026 on Limelight’s Mainstage, is directed by Richard Nowell — who appeared in the original production of The Battle of Shallowford decades ago.
This special full-circle moment brings added depth and authenticity to the beloved comedy, as Nowell revisits the production from an entirely new perspective, guiding a fresh cast of performers through the same laugh-filled chaos that audiences have enjoyed for generations.
Set in 1938, as the world teeters on the brink of war, The Battle of Shallowford transports audiences to a small town in North Carolina where everyday life is suddenly turned upside down. After tuning in to Orson Welles’ infamous War of the Worlds radio broadcast, the townspeople become convinced Martians are invading — unleashing panic, confusion and wildly comedic misunderstandings.
Bursting with eccentric characters, rapid-fire dialogue and escalating antics, the play captures the humor and hysteria surrounding one of the most infamous moments in broadcasting history. As rumors spread and imaginations run wild, the residents of Shallowford band together in increasingly absurd ways, creating a theatrical experience packed with laughter and heart.
Behind the comedy of the “war,” the play also explores a deeper coming-of-age theme, as teenagers in a small town grapple with whether to remain in the familiarity of home or pursue a more exciting life beyond its borders.
Featuring a talented ensemble of performers from across Northeast Florida, the production showcases Limelight Theatre’s signature flair for comedy, character-driven storytelling and energetic staging.
Director Richard Nowell said revisiting the play has been especially meaningful.
“Having been part of the original production, it’s surreal and incredibly rewarding to now direct this show,” said Nowell. “It’s a joy helping this great cast bring this production to life for audiences in northeast Florida. The comedy still feels fresh and relevant, and at its core, it’s a reminder of how imagination, fear, and storytelling can completely sweep people away -- and make them laugh at themselves."
Adding to the significance of this production, playwright and original director Ed Simpson will attend a special performance on Saturday, June 6, and will participate in a post-show question-and-answer session with the audience.
Performance Dates & Times
June 5–21, 2026 Evening performances Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Matinee performances Sundays at 2 p.m.
Special Event
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Playwright and original director Ed Simpson will attend a special performance and participate in a post-show question-and-answer session with the audience.
Tickets are available now and are expected to sell quickly. Visit Limelight Theatre or call the box office at 904-825-1164 for reservations and additional information.
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About Limelight Theatre
Limelight Theatre is St. Augustine’s only year-round community theatre. The organization presents a full season of musicals, plays and youth productions and offers theatre education programs for children and adults. In 2026, the theatre celebrates its 35th anniversary, while the building it occupies marks 50 years in operation.
Limelight Theatre11 Old Mission AveSt. Augustine, FL 32084
Theatre website: Limelight Theatre Website
Direct ticket link: Limelight Tickets
Box office: 904-825-1164
Broadcast & Media Opportunities
Media are invited to attend performances or arrange behind-the-scenes rehearsal visits for interviews, photography and B-roll opportunities. Cast and creative team members are available for television, radio, podcast, print and digital interviews.
For media inquiries, contact Beth Brophy Strautz at beth@vaguspr.com or 904-926-1208.
CAST MEMBERS
BURTON MOCK.....................JEFF SCHAEFFER
RUTHIE MOCK................ASHLYNN AMBURGEY
LONNY HUTCHINS.................BRYCE ESPOSITO
CLUNETTE CAMPBELL............CHIP PRESTERA
ROY SPRINKLE...............................JIM WARREN
DEWEY SOMERS.....................OLIVER AGUAYO
NEWSOME JARVIS............BANYAN MCGOWEN
DOODAD JARVIS.............THOMAS LEMROW III
FRED MARTIN.........ALBERTO CARLOS PEART