Clinton Community College Drama Club and Adirondack Regional Theatre Launch New Pick‑Up Plays Series
PLATTSBURGH, March 4, 2026 – — Clinton Community College’s Drama Club has partnered with Adirondack Regional Theatre (ART) to launch Pick‑Up Plays, a free monthly public script‑reading series designed to bring together students, faculty and members of the local community in an interactive theater experience.The first reading, Shakespeare’s “As You Like It,” will take place at 6 p.m. March 10 in Room 135M in the George Moore Building, located at 46 Beekman St. in Plattsburgh. The series continues April 7 with “Puppet Song,” followed by “Bug” on May 5. Scripts will be provided, and no prior theater experience is required.
Pick‑Up Plays was created by ART two years ago to give the community access to texts without the demands of a full production. Participants may volunteer to read roles or simply listen. The collaboration with Clinton marks the first time the series has been hosted on campus.
“By introducing the texts of classic and contemporary plays to our community that otherwise may not have access to a fully realized production, our Pick‑Up Play series offers a low-stakes and accessible entry into the world of theatre,” said Mason Barber of Adirondack Regional Theatre. “Each reading will be accompanied with personal reflections and responses to hear how the text resonates for the community and fundamentally ask how the themes of the play are also important to our region.”
Drama Club Co‑Advisor and ART Vice President LeAnn Yelton said the partnership revives a long history between the college and the theater organization.
“This collaboration brings the relationship between Clinton and ART full circle,” Yelton said. “Pick‑Up Plays give people a chance to explore theater without the pressure of rehearsals or long‑term commitment. You can read, listen or just enjoy the experience. We’re excited to welcome the community to campus and offer students an easy way to engage with drama again.”
Drama Club President Mercadia Clark, a student who has been involved since the club relaunched last academic year, said the series is perfect for people who want to try theater but cannot commit to a full production.
“A lot of people love theater but don’t have time for a months‑long rehearsal schedule,” Clark said. “Pick‑Up Plays are fun, relaxed and only one evening long. It gives people a chance to try something new and connect with Plattsburgh’s arts community.”
Yelton said the series may also help identify future works for ART to produce. In the past, a play workshopped at Pick‑Up Plays has moved on to a full regional production.
Learn more about Adirondack Regional Theatre and Clinton Community College.
Posted: March 4th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, Arts and Entertainment, City News, Community Events, Education News, General News, Northern NY News.