The Impromptu Players theater group in DeRidder is gearing up for its greatest season to date kicking off with the announcement of its production of a non-musical version of the classic “The Nutcracker” this fall.

The amateur theater group will be hosting auditions soon for youth community actors to bring the Christmas tale to life this November for the first time in the group’s history.

Youth Director Lela Bailey will be at the helm of the production, an adaption by June Walker Rogers of the beloved ballet performed every Christmas across the globe. The story follows the young Clara as she sets off on a Christmas Eve adventure with a wooden nutcracker in the form of a soldier gifted to her by her godfather. The nutcracker shares with Clara that he is a prince trapped in a spell by the evil Mouse King, and she follows him on his quest to regain his throne.

Production times will be released in the next few weeks.

Impromptu Players regular director Maria Sanchez said she believes Bailey’s creativity and skill with directing youth will guarantee an incredible experience for audiences.

“Lela does an awesome job with the youth division. I’m certain it will be amazing,” Sanchez said.

The production will open on Nov. 18, and will coincide with another celebration for the theatre group; the unveiling of a new mural being painted in the exterior of the building located at 102 East First St. in downtown DeRidder.

The mural is being planned by artist D’Evelyn “Cissy” Cooley and its details have been highly guarded.

“It’s an exciting time for the theatre and we cannot wait to celebrate it all with the community,” Sanchez said.

After a winter break, the theatre group will return in March with the world premiere production of playwright Barbara Weber’s latest comedy “SOB (Son of a Bot).”

Weber said she was proud to see her newest work debut at the Wooten Theatre in DeRidder.

“Impromptu has produced several of my published comedies over the years and I’m thrilled that my brand new play will debut under the masterful direction of Maria Sanchez. The story is in great hands for its debut,” Weber said.

“SOB (Son of a Bot)” will open Friday night, March 17, and will offer productions that weekend and on March 25 and 26.