Guy Fawkes: A Bonfire of Laughter, Music, and Tradition
The 27th Annual Production of Guy Fawkes by the Misquamicut Players: A Bonfire of Laughter, Music, and Tradition
Misquamicut’s legendary beachside theater experience returns for its 27th year as the Misquamicut Players gear up for their annual production of Guy Fawkes. This year’s performance will take place on October 19th at 7 PM at the Windjammer, located at 321 Atlantic Ave in Misquamicut. In what has become a beloved community tradition, audiences are invited to "remember, remember, the 5th of November" with an October twist, featuring a campy, Monty Python-inspired take on the tale of Guy Fawkes, written and directed by Caswell Cooke. As always, the show will feature live music, irreverent comedy, and plenty of local talent, culminating in a bonfire on the beach after the performance.
A Campy Tradition with Local Flair
The Guy Fawkes production tells the story of the infamous 1605 Gunpowder Plot, in which Guy Fawkes attempted to blow up the British Parliament. Though the historical tale might be dark, the Misquamicut Players infuse it with humor, anachronisms, and plenty of silliness in the style of Monty Python, ensuring a night of laughter and light-hearted fun for all ages. Directed by Caswell Cooke, this year’s show will once again celebrate the foiling of Fawkes’s plot with a mix of slapstick, witty dialogue, and outlandish characters.
This year’s production features live music from King Crimson’s Jesters, bringing an eclectic sound to the evening’s performance. In addition, Caswell & The Peel N’ Eats will be back on stage, offering their signature mix of classic rock and humor, keeping the energy high throughout the night.
Local favorites, The Westerly Morris Men, will delight the crowd with their traditional English folk dancing, and The Kentish Guard will bring a dash of military pageantry to the evening’s festivities. As always, the centerpiece of the night will be the uproarious reenactment of The Trial of Guy Fawkes, a humorous yet semi-historical portrayal of Fawkes’s capture and prosecution, packed with plenty of comedic moments and interactive fun.
Free Admission and Reserved Seating
One of the most special aspects of this event is that it remains free for all to attend, making it a fun and accessible way for the entire community to come together and enjoy live theater. While admission is free, those who wish to secure their seats in advance can reserve them online by visiting GuyFawkesUSA.com. This ensures a prime spot to witness all the hilarity and action up close, as the Misquamicut Players bring their unique brand of humor and history to life on stage.
The Grand Finale: Bonfire on the Beach
The show may end, but the night continues with the traditional bonfire on the beach immediately following the performance. This part of the evening has become as iconic as the show itself, harking back to the original Guy Fawkes Night celebrations in England, when bonfires were lit to celebrate the failure of Fawkes’s plot. In Misquamicut, the bonfire is a time to gather, reflect on the night’s performance, and enjoy the warmth of community spirit as flames dance against the backdrop of the ocean. It’s the perfect way to cap off an evening of laughter, history, and local culture.
A Production Rooted in Community
The Guy Fawkes production has become more than just a show—it’s a beloved tradition that brings together generations of Westerly locals and visitors alike. Each year, the Misquamicut Players, under the guidance of Caswell Cooke, infuse the historical story of Guy Fawkes with a modern, comedic twist, creating an experience that is both educational and wildly entertaining. For many in the community, this event marks the unofficial kickoff to the fall season, offering a lighthearted evening by the beach as the days grow cooler and shorter.
This 27th annual performance promises to deliver all the same elements that have kept audiences coming back year after year: a talented cast, engaging live music, and plenty of laughs. Whether you’re attending for the first time or have been a regular for years, the evening is sure to be filled with joy and community spirit.
Conclusion
The 27th Annual Guy Fawkes production by the Misquamicut Players is set to be an unforgettable evening of history, humor, and local pride. Featuring live performances by King Crimson’s Jesters, Caswell & The Peel N’ Eats, The Westerly Morris Men, and The Kentish Guard, along with the famous Trial of Guy Fawkes reenactment, the night promises endless entertainment. With free admission and the option to reserve seats, this is an event that’s accessible to all. Don’t forget to stay for the bonfire on the beach after the show to end the night with warmth and camaraderie.
So mark your calendar for October 19th at 7 PM, and join the Misquamicut Players at the Windjammer for a night of laughter, music, and tradition. Remember, remember, the 5th of November—a little early this year, and with a lot of fun.
