(HADDON TOWNSHIP, NJ) -- The Ritz Theatre Company presents Trolls and Men by Alex Wilkie weekends from October 9-25, 2026. Set in 1940s Norway, and based on a true story, Trolls and Men tells the inspiring story of Julius Thoreson, the artistic director of the Trondheim Transformational Theater. The production is directed by Lori Aleixo-Howard.
When World War II arrives on the doorstep of Norway, Julius Thoreson, the Artistic Director of the Trondheim Transformational Theatre, is thrust unexpectedly to the forefront of resistance against Nazi occupation.
After being visited by the newly appointed Minister of Culture and Enlightenment, it is clear that Thoreson, his friends, and his theatre company have caught the eye of the fascist regime. Through performance and a series of planned resistances, Thoreson’s theatre becomes a cultural battleground against the would-be Nazi occupiers.
Based on a true story, Trolls and Men is an inspiring tale about the power of theatre and the human spirit. Presented as part of our New Works Initiative, this production marks the ninth original piece produced by the Ritz in as many years. Join them for an evening of brand new theatre and celebrate the work of local playwright Alex Wilkie.
Performances take place Friday, October 9 at 8:00pm; Saturday, October 10 at 8:00pm; Sunday, October 11 at 2:00pm; Friday, October 16 at 8:00pm; Saturday, October 17 at 3:00pm & 8:00pm; Wednesday, October 21 at 7:30pm; Friday, October 23 at 8:00pm; Saturday, October 24 at 8:00pm; and Sunday, October 25 at 2:00pm. Tickets are available for purchase online. The venue is located at 915 White Horse Pike in Haddon Township, New Jersey.
With a career spanning over two decades, playwright Alex Wilkie has captivated audiences with his distinctive and comedic storytelling since 1995. Recent works include Heathens on the Beach (2023) and Spy House (2018) at the Ritz Theatre, and Vaudeville Villains (2017) noted for its hilarity.
His short plays have graced numerous esteemed stages across the country.
Alex is a proud alumnus of Gettysburg College and Columbia University and resides in Moorestown, NJ, with his wife, Janet.
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