Lake Michigan College Brings Magical Comedy Puffs to Benton Harbor This November

The Lake Michigan College Visual & Performing Arts Department is all set to bring a burst of laughter and magic to southwest Michigan with its upcoming production of Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic. This imaginative comedy, written by Matt Cox, will run at the LMC Mendel Center Hanson Theatre from November 20 to 23 in Benton Harbor.

Showtimes are 7 p.m. on November 20, 21, and 22, with a 2 p.m. matinee on November 23. Tickets are priced at $15 for general admission and $5 for those under 18, available through the Mendel Center’s official website.

Puffs is a hilarious parody of the well-known “boy wizard” saga that’s captured millions of hearts, but this time, the story unfolds through the eyes of the underdogs—students who never quite get the spotlight. It’s a story about friendship, belonging, and the quiet triumphs of those who stand just outside the limelight.

Directed by Shalico Sain, a theatre instructor at Lake Michigan College, this production promises plenty of laughs, heart, and a good dose of nostalgia for anyone who’s grown up loving tales of magic. Sain shared that she chose Puffs because it’s “campy, fast-paced, and full of heart,” describing it as a show that lets the audience “escape and enjoy some laughs for a few hours.”

The play will feature a talented ensemble of student and community performers. Garreth Smiley will take on the role of the Narrator, while Aiden Apreza plays Wayne Hopkins, Klara Johnson stars as Megan Jones, and Quintin Sharpe plays Oliver Rivers. Other cast members include Calie Madsen as Susie Bones and the Second Headmaster, AJ Dyer as Ernie Mac and Viktor, Allison MacMillan as Hannah and Professor McG, Anton Martin as Cedric and Zach Smith, and Deonna McGrew as Sally Perks, Hermeoone #3, and Bippy.

Behind the scenes, the production is supported by an equally impressive team. Rob Lunn, Chair of the Visual & Performing Arts Department, serves as an advisor, while Mindy McCaffrey assists administratively. Elizabeth Coffee manages the stage, Tabitha Hoskins designs the costumes, and Dolphy Clark handles both technical direction and lighting design. The scenic design is crafted by John Taylor, with Aaron Rennhack contributing as a scenic builder.

The play is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. and is geared toward mature audiences, featuring some adult language and humor. Attendees can also look forward to concessions and a bar at the venue, including a specialty cocktail available at each performance.

The Mendel Center, located at 2755 E. Napier Avenue, Benton Harbor, is recognized as the region’s premier performing arts venue, providing a professional yet welcoming space for both college and community productions. Visitors are advised to plan their route in advance, as the I-94 Napier Avenue Exit 30 westbound entrance ramp is currently closed for construction.

For more details about the production and other upcoming performances, visit the Lake Michigan College news page.

Lake Michigan College’s Puffs offers a playful and heartfelt reminder that every story—even those told from the sidelines—can be filled with magic, laughter, and meaning. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of wizarding tales or simply in need of a good laugh, this production is a delightful reason to spend an evening at the theatre.