(MATAWAN, NJ) -- Misfits Theatre Co., a community theater organization dedicated to producing bold, entertaining, and accessible theater for audiences of all ages, presents its inaugural book musical production, She Loves Me at Matawan Regional High School from July 10-12, 2026.
She Loves Me, with a book by Joe Masteroff, music by Jerry Bock, and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, is a warm and witty romantic musical comedy based on a play by Miklós László. Set in a charming 1930s European parfumerie, the story follows feuding shop clerks Amalia Balash and Georg Nowack, who are unaware that they have fallen in love as anonymous pen pals. As their correspondence blossoms, the pair continue to clash in person, creating a delightful comedy of misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and unexpected romance. Featuring a lush score, memorable characters, and timeless themes of love and connection, She Loves Me remains one of the most beloved and enduring musicals in the American theater repertoire.
Originally directed on Broadway by Harold Prince, She Loves Me was originally produced on Broadway by Harold Prince in association with Lawrence N. Kasha and Philip C. McKenna. Original orchestrations were by Don Walker.
Founded in 2022 by Dr. Angela Ronan, Misfits Theatre Co. is a non-profit community theater bringing together talented performers throughout Monmouth County. The organization is committed to providing a creative outlet for adults ages 18 and older throughout the community and welcomes individuals of all experience levels—whether on stage, behind the scenes, or anywhere in between. "We welcome anyone with a passion for theater and a desire to collaborate in an open, supportive, and judgment-free environment," said Dr. Ronan. "No matter your level of experience, there is a place for you here."
The production is directed by Christopher J. Guell, an accomplished theater director with an extensive resume of successful productions throughout New Jersey. "When Misfits asked me if I was interested in directing their first musical, I immediately said yes!" said Guell. "The auditions brought us so many talented performers and this incredible production team assembled such a talented cast, who are committed to making this musical truly memorable."
Guell is a Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Brook Arts Center Community Players, where he has directed most of their productions including The Drowsy Chaperone, Rent, Guys and Dolls, Seussical, Reefer Madness, Head Over Heels, Be More Chill, American Idiot, and A Christmas Carol. He received a nomination for Outstanding Direction of a Musical for Rent at the 2021 NJACT Perry Awards, while his productions of Rent (2021) and Head Over Heels (2022) both earned nominations for Outstanding Production of a Musical.
Serving as Music Director is David F. Shirley, an accomplished music director and performer known throughout New Jersey. "I am beyond excited to work on this incredible production of She Loves Me," Shirley said. "I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to join this awesome creative team, leading these amazing performers and musicians in my first-ever Misfits production." Shirley serves as Director of Sacred Music at St. John's Church in Lakehurst and has music-directed numerous productions, including American Idiot, Guys and Dolls, The Drowsy Chaperone, and Alice By Heart, among many others. David is also a Co-Founder of the Brook Arts Center Community Players and has musically directed every production they have done, plus he was nominated for Outstanding Music Direction of a Musical for Rent at the 2021 NJACT Perry Awards.
The cast of She Loves Me
To make the theater experience even more special, Misfits Theatre Co. has partnered with Maloney's on Main in Matawan to offer theatergoers a discounted dining experience.
"You don't have to travel to New York City for a great dinner and a show," said Diane Greaves, Vice President of Misfits Theatre Co. "All you have to do is show your ticket or simply mention the show She Loves Me to your server, and Maloney's will take 10% off your bill." The promotion is valid July 10, 11, and 12, 2026.
Filled with charm, romance, and unforgettable music, She Loves Me marks an exciting milestone for Misfits Theatre Co. as the organization continues its mission of fostering creativity, community, and theatrical excellence throughout the region.
Tickets for She Loves Me are $25 per person and are available for purchase online at www.misfitstheatreco.org.
She Loves Me is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
Founded in 2022 by Dr. Angela Ronan, Misfits Theatre Co. is dedicated to producing bold, entertaining, and accessible theater for audiences of all ages. The company provides a welcoming and supportive creative outlet for adults ages 18 and older, bringing together performers, artists, and theater enthusiasts of all experience levels to create memorable community theater experiences.
