Love Wizard School Stories? You'll Love What Simsbury Theater Group Is Doing

SIMSBURY, CT — If you or your children grew up reading those beloved wizard school books about a certain boy and his two friends, then you'll love what the Theatre Guild of Simsbury is doing this month.

Starting this weekend, the guild will present the wizard-school parody “Puffs” from March 13–22 at Eno Memorial Hall, 754 Hopmeadow St., featuring dinner-theater seating.

Performances are scheduled for Friday, March 13, Saturday, March 14, Friday, March 20, and Saturday, March 21 at 7 p.m.

In addition, matinee shows will take place on Sunday, March 15, and Sunday, March 22, at 1 p.m.

The house opens 30 minutes before each show.

Tickets cost $28 and will be sold at the door.

However, advance purchase is recommended—particularly for audience members who want table seating—at the theatre guild’s website, so staff can arrange seating for groups.

The production will be staged dinner-theater style, with both table seating and traditional auditorium seating available.

Audience members are encouraged to bring their own food and beverages, and concessions will also be offered.

The show is directed by Terrance J. Peters, who previously directed the guild’s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and the U.S. amateur premiere of The Ferryman at Hole in the Wall Theater.

Both productions received multiple award nominations.

“Puffs,” a parody comedy inspired by the wizard-school stories popularized by J. K. Rowling, retells a familiar magical saga from the perspective of students who are not destined to save the world.

“For seven years, a certain boy wizard went to a certain Wizard School and conquered evil,” Peters said. “This, however, is not his story. This is the story of the Puffs… who just happened to be there too. A tale for anyone who has never been destined to save the world.”

Peters said the production aims to recapture the sense of wonder many audiences associate with the fantasy series while offering a comedic and alternative viewpoint.

“Puffs is an invitation to rediscover the magic that first sparked your imagination all those years ago,” he said, adding that the story celebrates the friendships and shared experiences that surrounded the books and films.

The production features performers from across Connecticut, with a cast ranging in age from their teens to their 50s.

According to the theater guild, the show includes a detailed set, handcrafted props, large-scale puppetry, and stage effects designed to enhance the magical setting.

“While its inspiration is unmistakable, Puffs is not authorized, sanctioned, licensed, or endorsed by J.K. Rowling, Warner Bros., or any person or company associated with the Harry Potter books, films, or play,” Peters said.

Organizers say the show is designed as a lighthearted, nostalgic experience for longtime fans as well as newcomers.

Caroline Darr, director of publicity for the Theatre Guild of Simsbury, said the production will also include “fun and unique concessions” and “special immersive surprises” for audiences attending the performances.

To purchase tickets for the Theatre Guild of Simsbury's production of 'Puffs,' click on this link.

For more information on the Theatre Guild of Simsbury, click on this link.

For the Theatre Guild of Simsbury's Facebook page, click on this link.