Since its founding in 2005, Snack Theatre, the musical theatre ministry at St. Edna Parish, has grown into a rich tradition that blends entertainment, community outreach, and faith. This unique ministry has hosted 12 productions over its nearly 20-year history. The ministry is beloved for its mission of providing fun and engaging performances for the community, regardless of religious affiliation.

“It started as a way to celebrate the parish’s 40th anniversary and for parishioners to share their love of music with the broader community,” explained Maureen Durack, who has served as the Producer for Snack Theatre since 2020. Snack Theatre was inspired by a similar production at St. Margaret Mary parish in Rogers Park. “The first show included singing and choreographed dancing to songs from the 1960s and subsequent productions were based on themes like Lights of Broadway, On the Road Again, and Somebody to Love. Over time, local talent was invited to join us and Snack Theatre became a true community event.”          

The evolution continued when the shows moved from a cabaret-style format in the parish’s basement to full-scale productions in the parish center in 2019. Today, Snack Theatre involves an average of 25 cast members per production, all volunteers, ranging from seasoned performers to first-time performers stepping onstage. This past year, they performed “A Grand Night for Singing,” a compilation of beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein songs.

Fostering Faith and Connection

While Snack Theatre may not seem like a traditional church ministry, it has proven to be a powerful tool for outreach. “We use this ministry to introduce people to St. Edna and to demonstrate our Christian values,” said Durack. “We don’t push a faith journey—it's more of a soft entry. Cast members often comment on how friendly and engaging the parish community is.”

Some performers have even deepened their connection with St. Edna through the ministry, joining the choir or attending other parish events like Bingo sessions after experiencing the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Snack Theatre.

Durack shared a particularly moving story from the most recent production: “Several members of a local senior center, who had been taking tap and jazz classes, joined the cast for the first time. One member turned 80 during rehearsals and performed in a tap number. She came to every rehearsal with a smile and said how grateful she was to be part of the show. Her kids and grandkids were there to see her perform. She was truly the spirit of the show.”

A Community Effort

Putting on a production of this caliber requires immense teamwork. Rehearsals typically start in January for shows in April or May, depending on Easter. Over 100 volunteers contribute their time and talents to support the five-show run. “The support of our pastor, Fr. Darrio, and the parish staff is critical,” said Durack. “This ministry is a true collaboration. It demands many resources, so we currently operate with an every-other-year schedule. Fr. Darrio     often notes that there are many ‘God moments’ because so much joy and connection come from these shows.” The ministry uses creative strategies to fund the productions, such as offering sponsorships for individual songs and underwriting snacks provided at performances. Promotion relies heavily on word of mouth, cast members’ outreach, collaboration with local businesses, and posters throughout the wider community.

The Joy of Leading Snack Theatre

Leading Snack Theatre has been a faith-filled and profoundly personal journey for Durack. “We are blessed with a terrific team of Directors, Choreographers, our House and Ticket managers, and all those who put so much time and energy into supporting the show.”  On a personal level, Jesus has a great sense of humor. There are many elements to a production: bringing people together, serving them as they cooperate and work together, and the twists and turns. I learned how relevant my relationship with Jesus is in these circumstances; he is there with us every day. I love performing and having this opportunity is so special. The relationships and surprises along the way are gifts.”

Her mantra— “Take care of the people, and they will take care of the show”—guides her approach. “Other theater groups can get too focused on production mechanics, but for us, it's about building relationships and serving our parish.”

Looking Ahead

As St. Edna Parish approaches its 60th anniversary, Snack Theatre is preparing a special reunion show on September 6, 2025. The performance will feature highlights from the past 12 productions, and cast members will travel across the country to participate.

“It's going to be a wonderful celebration of our history and the incredible community we've built,” Durack said.

With over 380 songs performed and countless lives touched, Snack Theatre is a testament to music and ministry’s power to unite people. “This little introduction to St. Edna gives people the sense that this is a special community,” Durack reflected. “And it truly is.”