It's a new season for Newberry's own theater troupe.

The Newberry Community Players steps out this season onto a new path lined with dinner-theater combos, a kids theater club and new “stage” community backdrops.

But the unity that comes over community members sitting in the moment enjoying a show is still in tact.

That's what's great about community theater, says Heather Hawkins.

For one, having a theater outlet gives actors confidence and teaches them how to express themselves, says Hawkins, chair of the NCP, “and find out a new part of yourself.”

It also teaches young actors to be observant and to take up for themselves, she says.

And then there's the friendship built among actors who time and time again meet for rehearsal.

But for the audience, again it's that classic shared experience that theater brings.

“As an audience member, there is nothing more amazing than sitting in the dark and sharing an emotion with your neighbors or strangers for that matter,” she says. “You're dying laughing. It doesn’t matter that you don't know these people next to you. You're looking at each other and you're sharing this humor.”

Expect that same community with a twist this season.

Kicking off the Players' line up is a chance for Twilight series fans to show their love and cheer on their favorite heartthrob. (See Wednesday’s Observer for details.)

A Patsy Cline production keeps the energy going, and there’s also a teen musical review where singers step into the shoes of famed musicians to perform.

The Ritz also has a golf play slated—I mean, what do four guys on a golf course really say when they're out on the green alone?

“Do you want to know?” asks Hawkins. “I want to know.”

A St. Valentine's Day massacre show — “think Chicago mobsters” — is slated for the Flying Pie and an improv night similar to the television show “Whose Line is it Anyway,” is in the works.

The reliable marionette theater is again set for Oktoberfest, and Rocky Horror Picture Show is scheduled for the fall.

There are two kids shows and the Players will continue “reader's theater,” where actors step into their role with script in hand.

This season also kicks off a brand new kids club where with free membership, allowing youth to buy tickets at a discount, tour backstage and join pre-audition meetings for tips before the real audition.

Season tickets are $75, which includes two meals. Two season tickets are discounted at $125. Those who held Ritz season passes last year receive $15 off this year's season tickets. Call 924-7058 for more information.