Penobscot Theatre Premiered On Golden Pond
The Bangor Opera House production features actor Robert Libbey in his return to the stage after two decades.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Dance
Live Poll
Do you believe local theater productions are important for your community's cultural life?
The Penobscot Theatre Company has opened its production of On Golden Pond, marking a notable return for actor Robert Libbey. The play is currently being performed at the Bangor Opera House as part of the company's 53rd season.
Why it matters
This production revives the 1978 classic by Ernest Thompson, which has remained a staple for the company since its earlier stagings in 1985 and 2008. The current run highlights the theatre's commitment to classic American plays while showcasing a major local acting comeback.
The production is part of the Penobscot Theatre Company's 53rd season, utilizing the third revision of Ernest Thompson's script. The play originally premiered off-Broadway in 1978 when Thompson was 28 years old.
The players
Robert Libbey
He is an actor who has returned to the stage at the Bangor Opera House after a 20-year absence.
Dee Pelletier
She is an actress currently portraying the character Ethel Thayer in the production.
Adam Kuykendall
He is the director of the current Penobscot Theatre Company production.
Ernest Thompson
He is the playwright who wrote On Golden Pond in 1978.
Penobscot Theatre Company
This is a Bangor-based theatre organization currently in its 53rd season.
The details
Director Adam Kuykendall utilizes a staging approach that keeps actors on stage during scene transitions to maintain the production's flow. Robert Libbey leads the cast as Norman Thayer, starring alongside Dee Pelletier, who portrays Ethel Thayer.
Timeline
1978: On Golden Pond premiered off-Broadway.
1993: Robert Libbey completed his first production with Penobscot Theatre Company.
2008: The Penobscot Theatre Company last produced the play.
September 18, 2026: The review of the production was published.
October 4, 2026: The final scheduled performance date.
Industry Dynamics
Regional theatre companies often rely on revivals of established classics like On Golden Pond to anchor their seasons. This production follows a pattern of localized artistic interpretation that stands apart from the 1981 film adaptation of On Golden Pond.
Local residents and theatre-goers in Bangor can attend performances at the Bangor Opera House through October 4, 2026. Tickets and scheduling information are available directly through the theatre's box office.
The takeaway
This production highlights how regional theatres continue to breathe new life into established American plays through fresh directorial choices. Returning to the stage after a long break serves as a reminder of the enduring personal commitment required for local live performance.
Further reading
For more information on the regional arts scene, visit the Dance section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Bangor Daily News.
Live Poll
Do you believe local theater productions are important for your community's cultural life?
