Yampa Valley Players Bring the Comedy Farce of Habit to Perry-Mansfield This Weekend

The Yampa Valley Players are rolling out a lively dose of comedy with their new production, Farce of Habit, now running through Sunday at the Perry-Mansfield Performing Arts School and Camp in Steamboat Springs. This upbeat, family-friendly show promises plenty of laughs, quirky characters and a fast-moving plot set deep in the Ozarks.

According to Director Michael Staley, Farce of Habit is a “modern, family-friendly whodunit set in the quirky Reel ’Em Inn fishing lodge”, where everything from caffeine withdrawal to unexpected murder chatter turns an ordinary getaway into a chaotic adventure. Staley describes the production as “absurdly absurd”, leaning fully into the play’s farcical humor.

At the center of the story is Wanelle Wilburn, who decides to tackle a major life change by giving up caffeine. Her decision quickly spirals into a comedy of its own as she navigates withdrawal symptoms at the worst possible time. Her husband, D. Gene Wilburn, has a much simpler goal for the weekend — he just wants a peaceful fishing trip. Unfortunately for him, everything that can interrupt serenity absolutely does.

Their son Ty joins the mix as well. A misunderstood community theater actor, Ty is trying to keep up with the demands of his new marriage, though he’s already feeling overwhelmed by his newlywed wife. His personal drama adds a whole new layer of tension and humor to the family’s stay at the lodge.

Things take a more mysterious turn with the arrival of Aunt Maxie, who immediately jumps into action when rumors begin spreading about a local murder. Her bold personality and eagerness to solve a potential crime help push the story into a full-blown comedic whodunit.

The show runs for one weekend only, with performances scheduled for 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, followed by a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday. The venue, Perry-Mansfield Performing Arts School and Camp, is known for hosting a variety of artistic programs and community-driven performances. More information about the venue can be found on the official Perry-Mansfield website.

Cast member Frosty Frostman describes the show as a celebration of what makes comedy meaningful within a tight-knit community. In a statement, Frostman shared, “Comedy, like music, is a universal language that helps bring people together. Steamboat Springs is such a loving and caring community, and in return, with gratitude, The Players are happy to give you a laugh or two.” Frostman encourages audiences to show up ready to “exercise your giggle muscles”, adding that “laughing out of context is encouraged.”

For locals looking for weekend plans or visitors hoping to experience a lighthearted evening of theater, Farce of Habit offers a straightforward, laughter-filled escape with a cast and crew dedicated to delivering an energetic performance. With its eccentric characters, Ozark setting and mix of family chaos and murder mystery flair, the show brings a uniquely charming comedic style to Steamboat Springs.

Anyone interested in attending can find additional event details and updates through local listings or by visiting community arts resources such as the Steamboat Springs Arts & Culture directory.