The Florentine Players 61st Annual Melodrama: Cassidy Croft and The Lost Treasure of Jesse James

The Florentine Players, a local nonprofit community theater group, will premiere its 61st annual melodrama, “Cassidy Croft and The Lost Treasure of Jesse James OR Treasure? Hardly Knew Her,” on Thursday, April 30.

This original production, written by Derek Kowal and Luke McGuire, is set in the 1980s. When a time capsule is cracked open in Florence, a mysterious clue launches a race for Jesse James’ long-lost loot.

“This show is packed with fun surprises and plenty of 1980s nostalgia,” said Derek Kowal, melodrama director and co-writer. “There’s nothing like it. It’s a truly unique night out full of laughs, local flavor and the kind of live, interactive fun you can only get at a Florence melodrama.”

There are six performances of “Cassidy Croft and The Lost Treasure of Jesse James” at Florence City Hall, 2864 State Street:

• Thursday, Friday, Saturday; April 30-May 2
• Thursday, Friday, Saturday; May 7-9

Each performance begins at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m., allowing the audience to enjoy live music by the Bertrand Banjo Band and purchase snacks and drinks before the show.

Reservations are strongly encouraged. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased via Florentineplayers.com or by calling the reservation line at (402) 455-6341. Proceeds from the melodrama fund the preservation of Florence’s historic buildings and future community theater productions.