Mathews County’s treasured hometown musical, “Crickets on a Hill,” will once again delight audiences this summer as the Court House Community Players present an exciting new revival as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Originally written nearly 50 years ago by Mathews native Judy Ward, the locally beloved musical play blends humor, music, and Revolutionary-era history. Now the production is being brought back to life with refreshed music, updated lyrics, and new staging for a new generation of audiences.
The two-act musical, long considered a Mathews tradition, centers on the dramatic summer of 1776 and the expulsion of Virginia’s last royal governor, Lord Dunmore. The revival features an expanded storyline, added local color, and rich orchestration by David Shuber himself — Ward’s longtime musical partner and the original production’s lead male performer. Presented by the Court House Players community theater, the new production will feature six performances throughout July 2026 as part of a full month of patriotic programming in Mathews County.
“This isn’t just a performance — it’s a celebration of our history, our creativity, and our community spirit,” said Fred Lyon, chairman of the Mathews VA250 Committee. “As the nation prepares to mark a milestone 250 years in the making, Mathews County is stepping onto the stage with heart, history, and hometown pride.”
The revival promises to combine nostalgia with fresh energy, bringing together seasoned performers and new talent to share a uniquely Mathews story with local audiences and visitors alike. As communities across the country commemorate the nation’s founding, Mathews County is proud to showcase one of its own cultural traditions — a musical that captures the spirit, humor, and independence of the Revolutionary era.
