Readers Theater Returns to the Miners Foundry with a Heartfelt Tribute to Family — and a Fond Farewell to Director Gaylie Bell-Stewart

The beloved community tradition, Readers Theater, returns to the Miners Foundry Cultural Center this Sunday, offering fans of well-crafted stories an afternoon of imagination, reflection, and connection. Known for its quiet, intimate atmosphere, Readers Theater provides a welcome respite from the noise of everyday life – a reminder of the timeless joy of being read to, whether by a parent, teacher, or the familiar voice from a favorite radio show.

This special performance marks the final production directed by Gaylie Bell-Stewart, who has devoted 26 years to Readers Theater, including seven as director. Bell-Stewart, who recently celebrated her 74th birthday, wanted her final show to explore the theme of family — in all its forms.

“I think that family is the most important thing to us in the end, no matter what kind of family you have,” shared Bell-Stewart. “I wanted my last performance to be about something important to people’s hearts. It’s been a privilege and a joy to volunteer for the Miners Foundry all these years, but it’s time for me to read the books I haven’t had time to get to, do more traveling, and take up new interests – to make a little more time for myself.”

In the spirit of founder Tim O’Connor’s original vision, Readers Theater continues its unique format – reminiscent of an old-fashioned radio show – relying on the actors’ skill and the audience’s imagination rather than elaborate sets or costumes.

This season’s performance features stories of family by Doris Lessing, David Sedaris, Robert Coover, and Tobias Wolff, performed by some of Nevada County’s most talented and respected actors, including Sandra Rockman, Jon Blinder, and Kimberly Ewing.

“Families are a mixed bag,” Bell-Stewart reflected. “They can represent the best and the worst the world has to offer. Our stories touch on everything – a little girl and her ailing grandmother, a man and his cheating wife, a funny engagement, and a boy with his adventurous, irresponsible dad.”

Guests will enjoy cabaret-style seating for two to four patrons, with a no-host full bar and pastries available for purchase.

Don’t miss this final, heartfelt Readers Theater directed by Gaylie Bell-Stewart — an afternoon of storytelling, laughter, and love that celebrates both the power of words and the community that gathers to hear them.