The cast of “Present Laughter” by Noël Coward, directed by Scott Gilbert, brings 1930s glamour and sharp wit to the Nevada Theatre stage July 10 to Aug. 2. Presented by Sierra Theatre Company, the stylish comedy features a “pay what you can” option on Thursday performances. Photo courtesy of Sierra Theater Company

NEVADA CITY, CA (MPG) - This July, the Sierra Theatre Company is bringing a trio of performances to the historic Nevada Theatre, offering something for everyone—from classic comedy to environmentally themed musicals and youth-led fairy tales.

The season kicks off with “Present Laughter,” a witty, fast-paced play by Noël Coward, running July 10 through August 2. The story follows Garry Essendine, a self-absorbed stage star who finds himself in a midlife crisis just as he prepares for a theatrical tour. Directed by Scott Gilbert, the production boasts a strong cast of local talent, including Trish Adair, Vicki Colombo, Kimberly Ewing, and Hunter Reed. Performances run Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.

To make theater more accessible, Sierra Theatre Company is offering a “pay what you can” deal for all Thursday performances of “Present Laughter”.

On July 23, families can enjoy a one-night-only reading of “Goldilocks and the Three Polar Bears,” a heartwarming musical that reimagines the classic tale through a climate-conscious lens. Part of the company’s "Theater by the Book" series, this staged reading features original music and a whimsical cast led by Sky Seals, who also directs. The show begins at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30. Tickets for children are just $10.

Rounding out the month is “TRiO! A Three-Ring Circus of Storybook Tales,” running July 25–27. Directed by Paulette Gilbert and starring the Spotlight Players youth ensemble, this fast-paced, family-friendly one-act combines “The Three Bears,” “The Three Little Pigs,” and “The Three Billy Goats Gruff” into a colorful circus-themed romp. Thursday’s performance will also offer the popular “pay what you can” option.

All performances take place at the Nevada Theatre, California’s oldest existing theater, located in downtown Nevada City. For tickets and more information, visit www.sierratheatrecompany.org.