Taproot Theatre Company has extended the run of "Smoke on the Mountain Homecoming" through Aug. 22, giving people two more weeks to experience this toe-tappin’, knee-slappin’, heartwarmin’ bluegrass gospel extravaganza. The regional premiere of this musical has been delighting audiences since it opened on July 10.

This is the third and final installment of the toe-tappin’, bluegrass gospel musicals that have been charming audiences for more than 20 years.

Directed by Scott Nolte, who’s directed each of Taproot Theatre’s five Sanders family productions over the years, "Smoke on the Mountain Homecoming" takes place on an October evening in 1945, after World War II. The Sanders family, who’ve become treasured for their musical talents, gather to sing together for what might be the last time, as they’re sending Pastor Oglethorpe and his wife, June, on a new journey and singing Dennis Sanders in as the new pastor.

"Smoke on the Mountain Homecoming" is written by Connie Ray and conceived by Alan Bailey, with musical arrangements by Mike Craver.

Running for an unexpected four months in 1992, Taproot’s first staging of "Smoke on the Mountain" became a surprise hit. It was only supposed to run for four weeks.

Taproot brought "Smoke on the Mountain" back in 1996 as part of its first season in its new permanent facility in Seattle’s Greenwood neighborhood, then again for its 30th anniversary season in 2006, a season of audience favorites.

The second installment, "Sanders Family Christmas," delighted audiences for two consecutive holiday seasons in 1999 and 2000.

After "Smoke on the Mountain Homecoming," Taproot Theatre’s 2009 mainstage season continues with "Enchanted April," Matthew Barber’s adaptation of Elizabeth von Arnim’s 1920s novel (runs Sept. 23 through Oct. 24).

Taproot Theatre is locates at 204 N. 85th St.

Tickets:

Wednesday and Thursday evenings and Saturday matinees, $26-28; Friday and Saturday evenings, $30-33; preview performances, $20-22; student/senior discount of 10 percent off regular priced ticket; ages 25 and under, $10. Pizza and a Play Night on July 16 is $10 for ages 18-25, and includes free Romio’s pizza, and beverages from Dry Soda.

For tickets call (206) 781-9707. Group rates are available. For groups, call (206) 781-9708.

Tickets for the pay-what-you-can performance on July 15 go on sale day of show at the box office.  

Schedule:

Wednesday and Thursday, 7:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 8:00 p.m.; Saturday matinee, 2:00 p.m.