Step into Middle-earth with “The Hobbit” at Wagnalls

November 5, 2025
By Eve Copeland

Wagnalls Community Theater invites audiences on a magical journey to Middle-earth with its production of The Hobbit, opening Nov. 7 at the historic Wagnalls Memorial in Lithopolis.

Bilbo Baggins (Mary Murphy) does not abide the Dwarves – Kili; Kiala Dean, Bofur; Jenna Fraley, and Bombur; Walli Martin – questioning his place in the courageous Took lineage. Photo by Rachel Scofield

Follow Bilbo Baggins (Mary Murphy) as he joins a company of dwarves on an unforgettable adventure, facing trolls, goblins, dragons, and all sorts of mischief along the way. Sword fights, clever tricks, and plenty of laughs await in this family-friendly show that promises excitement for all ages.

“Join us on a great grand adventure,” said Tyler Hall, who plays Thorin Oakenshield and has read all of J.R.R. Tolkien’s novels. “The cast is a lovely bunch bringing huge energy to the stage. Come see the show because it will be a fantastic time!”

Director Scott Gottliebson added, “The Hobbit is the book that started it all — the prequel to Lord of the Rings! It is a show for everyone from eight to 80 and beyond. A family can come out and have a great night see Bilbo Baggins and Gandalf and the dwarves and dragon – it’s a wonderful show!”

Audience members are encouraged to wear their favorite fantasy costumes — if enough adventurers participate, Wagnalls will hold a Best Costume Vote at intermission with a special prize for the winner!

Local restaurant partners El Pedregal and The Pump House Bar and Pizzeria are offering discounts for those who attend the show, Be sure to show the Playbill to your server.

The show runs Nov 7–9 & Nov 14–16 at Wagnalls Memorial, 150 E. Columbus St., Lithopolis. Tickets may be purchased at wct.ludus.com and cost $17 per adult and $15 for students and adults 60 and older.

The next show at Wagnalls will be the Christmas Spectacular presented by the Virtuous Reality Blacklight Theater on Dec. 6.

Cast & Crew

Gandalf the Grey (Jason Melick) and Thorin Oakenshield (Tyler Hall) consult the map. Photo by Rachel Scofield
Gollum (Justin Schlicher) does not know that Bilbo found his “Precious” ring invisibly beside him,
  • Bilbo Baggins – Mary Murphy
  • Gandalf the Grey – Jason Melick
  • Smaug & Goblin King – Eric Radachi
  • Gollum – Justin Schlicher
  • Thorin Oakenshield – Tyler Hall
  • Kili – Kiala Dean
  • Dwalin – Jim Scofield
  • Dori – Heath Scofield
  • Gloin – Robbie Sisson
  • Bofur – Jenna Fraley
  • Bombur – Walli Martin
  • Bert – Abbigail Schmidt
  • Tom – Addyson Schmidt
  • Essie, Elf Queen & Goblin Horde – Rocky DeSantis
  • Elf Guards & Goblin Horde – Abbigail Schmidt & Addyson Schmidt
  • Grocery Boy, Goblin & Elven Hordes – Adam Snell
  • Goblin, Elf #3 & Elven Hordes – Ben Barlow
  • Goblin, Elf #4 & Elven Horde – Melane Barlow
  • Goblin & Elven Hordes – Emily Davis & Eva Davis

Production Team:

  • Director – Scott Gottliebson
  • Co-Stage Managers – Keilyn Hall & Sam Inman
  • Costumes – Julie Cecutti
  • Fight Choreographer – Shelly Riggs
  • Costumes Assistant / Lights – Wave Wilkerson
  • Set Builder – George Bogrees
  • Set Designer – Trisha Clifford-Sprouse
  • Tech Manager – Sam Myers
  • Co-Producers – Donna Elliott & Chris Hughes
Director Scott Gottliebson gives the cast some last-minute notes before the performance.