Productions this season began in October with the Pulitzer Prize winning play Buried Child by Sam Shepherd. This drama tells the story of a dysfunctional American family with a terrible secret. It was directed by Frank Bartolucci, who directed Equus last season.

Following the success of Queen Coziah by Caribbean playwright Dr. Eddie Donoghue last year, Pistarckle Theater is "honored to present" Queen Breffu, the second in his trilogy of three remarkable women crusading for their rights in the 1800's," according to the Program Notes for Buried Child. Dates for Queen Breffu: Jan. 24, 25, 26 and Feb 1, 3, 8, 9 at 8 p.m.; Feb 2, 9 at 2 p.m.

The final production of the 2007- 2008 regular season will be Mother Hicks by Susan Zeder, one of the leading playwrights for young and family audiences. This play is derived from tales collected during the Great Depression of the 1930's. The central characters are Mother Hicks, an eccentric recluse accused of witchcraft; Girl, a foundling tomboy; and a deaf boy. Dates: Feb 28, 29 and March 1, 6, 7, 8, 14, 15, 16 at 7 p.m.; March 15 at 2 p.m.

This season we're announcing The Next Stage of Pistarckle Theater," Nikki explains proudly. "We have two new employees and we are also revamping our logo and the theater itself. We're altering Pistarckle's physical appearance and we're striving to present ourselves as an organized, elegant and professional business."

Pistarckle's Annual Fundraiser, a reception, dinner, silent auction and show is scheduled for March 5th. "We don't survive on earned income alone," Nikki says. "We need contributions, in any amount. The good news is they are tax deductible since we're a non-profit entity in good standing."

Other Pistarckle programs include the 2nd Annual Renaissance Fair & Student Shakespeare Festival May 9th and the STAR Summer Theater Camps, which "provide a safe environment for children to learn and grow," Nikki explains. "This is how Pistarckle keeps kids off the street."

Pistarckle Theater also provides a venue for local playwrights to share and develop their work in the New Playwrights' Circle. Another community outreach program will be the Fourth Annual Film Festival 2007 on Tuesdays at 7 pm from July 22 through August 26.

"We couldn't be doing any of this if it weren't for our wonderful sponsors, supporters - and our dedicated and talented volunteers," Nikki interjects. "The Community Foundation and the East End Rotary are only two of the many funding sources we appreciate and rely on. And we can always use more volunteers. We depend on them to do everything from stage managing to bartending or selling tickets. To show our appreciation, our volunteers see shows for free."

To find out more about Pistarckle Theater's productions and activities call 340-775-7877 or 340-775-7888 or email Nikki at nikki@islands.vi.