his enthusiasm might have ended at that point . But fate had other plans .
One day Cain left to attend a celebration that was being held for the school teachers at the end of the year . Without really checking the event invitation , he went to the café where the celebration had taken place the year before , assuming it would be the same . But it was the wrong venue , and no one was there . No one except one gentleman whose name is Doug May .
May turned out to be a pivotal player in bringing Cain ’ s old building to life , as he worked faithfully on restoring the building for more than two years .
“ It was an act of God ,” says Cain about the chance meeting . “ He still comes down there and works . And we ’ re close friends to this day .”
The Iron Horse Theatre opened in 2018 and seats 60 people . It has become a cultural hub for the area . Not only are new plays presented each month , but there are also comedy concerts and live music nights .
Along with Cain ’ s middle school students , his former students who are in high school and actors and directors from all across the Pittsburgh area and beyond participate as well . It ’ s a unique blend of art and community .
“ Anyone can come and audition for Iron Horse ,” says Cain . “ I didn ’ t want it to be a clique of the same people every time . We try to mix it up .” And you do not have to be a member of the company to play a role . There are also plenty of roles for those who wish to volunteer behind the scenes , with sets , selling tickets , concessions , stage managing and a variety of tech roles .
There ’ s no question that the presence of the Iron Horse Theatre is helping to contribute to the revitalization of the Ambridge area , but it is also helping to bring the people of the region together as well .
If you haven ’ t visited this unique venue , plan a visit soon . In December , the theater will present the hilarious musical comedy “ Title of Show ,” an original Broadway musical about two struggling writers .
For more information , visit ironhorsetheatrecompany . com . n
The Christmas Show
“ Scary Musical : The Musical ”
After-school program : “ Beauty and the Beast .” Soggy , Liam and Westen in band rehearsal .
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MOON TOWNSHIP ❘ WINTER 2022 13