THEATRE: A ‘Spirited Start’ to the Halloween Season

Photo: Olivia Fladwood steps into the role of “Lydia Deetz” with gothic charm and clear confidence — a fitting face for Pagosa’s Halloween season on stage.

There’s no better way to welcome the Halloween season than a trip to the theatre to cheer on the next generation of performers. Thingamajig Theatre’s Whatchamawhozits youth company opens Beetlejuice JR this coming Sunday, October 19 at 3pm, with performances continuing through October 31 — perfectly timed for families looking for something festive, funny, and community-driven.

This production offers more than just entertainment. It marks a meaningful step for young actors learning how to work as an ensemble, take creative risks, and tell a story in front of a live audience. Finlay Moore takes on the title role of “Beetlejuice” with playful confidence, while Olivia Fladwood as “Lydia Deetz” brings focus and emotional honesty to the stage. Their work — along with that of their castmates — highlights exactly why youth theatre matters: it teaches discipline, teamwork, and pride in a job well done.

But beyond the rehearsal hours and character work, there’s a simple joy in watching local kids light up a stage with imagination. Halloween often brings store-bought frights and flashy attractions from elsewhere — Beetlejuice JR reminds us that some of the most delightful magic happens right here at home, made by young people who live in our neighborhoods, go to our schools, and are just beginning to discover what they’re capable of.

So come celebrate the season, laugh a little, and make some memories in the theatre. For these young performers, a full audience isn’t just a tradition — it’s encouragement that lasts long after the final bow.

Beetlejuice JR
Playing at PSCA October 19 – 31, 2025

Tickets and showtimes visit pagosacenter.org or call 970.731.SHOW (7469)

Laura Moore

Laura Moore is Executive Director for the Thingamajig Theatre Company, a non-profit professional theatre company in residence at the Pagosa Springs Center for the Arts.