The Annual Tom Ely Festival of One-Acts 2026

For the fifth year running, we’re thrilled to showcase a breadth of local talent with a collection of short plays by area playwrights. This year’s lineup offers moments of laughter and reflection, exploring the universal themes through three distinct lenses – with surprises at every turn.

This show marks the inaugural evening of one-acts renamed in perpetuity to honor the memory of Tom Ely, a longstanding member of the Rock River Players who passed away in 2025. Tom shared the belief that participating in theater is about “much more than just being on the stage.” Through the dedication of our cast and crew, the creativity of our directors, and the through-provoking nature of these unique original works, we celebrate the spirit of exploration Tom brought to every project – a tribute to his passion for the power of community theater to bring us together.

00:04:28 The Mocking Bird’s Nest
00:38:08 He Looks Like a Burrito
00:50:13 Advocate For the Dead
01:10:28 Work and Play

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BCTV Requirements: By stating that your show meets BCTV requirements, you as Producer agree to the following: a. I am thoroughly familiar with the nature of the program material and take full responsibility for its content. b. I warrant and represent that the program does not contain prohibited material as defined in BCTV’s Policies and Procedures, including: i. Any program that is commercial in nature, intends to defraud the viewer, or contains a lottery, raffle, contest or game. ii. Any material which is libelous or slanderous or is an unlawful violation of privacy. iii. Any material that violates state or federal laws relating to obscenity. iv. Any material subject to copyright, ownership, royalty rights or residuals unless releases, licenses or other permissions have been obtained. c. I am required to obtain all necessary releases, clearances and permissions from any and all organizations, individuals and groups and provide BCTV with copies prior to broadcast. d. I agree to hold harmless and indemnify BCTV, its Board of Directors, and employees from any liability, loss, claim, cost, or damage of any nature stemming from the telecast of the program, including all legal fees and expenses involved in defending such a claim or action. Should a dispute arise between myself and BCTV which cannot be resolved by direct negotiation, I agree that my sole and final recourse will be arbitration by the Vermont Public Service Board. e. I agree to abide by all BCTV Policies and Procedures.

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