Isolation was a part of the daily lives of soldiers serving at Fort Wadsworth (now Fort Sisseton) in the 1860s. Over the last several years, as we have all endured the restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, we have also experienced times of isolation.

For soldiers and officers at Fort Wadsworth in the 1860s, Fort Sisseton was a source of entertainment. The soldiers were given instruments and were taught how to play. The Fort had its own band and would hold dances and balls for the locals and officers. Occasionally, the Commanding Officer might send a request for a group to travel from another military base to the Fort to provide music and entertainment that lifted the spirits of soldiers and brought some laughter during these times of isolation.

Now, almost 150 years later, we hope that the music and entertainment of our 2022 season will renew the spirits of our audiences as we emerge from our own levels of isolation. The Northern Fort Playhouse (NFP) Board and the Northern State University Theatre Department welcome you to enjoy a bit of “Christmas in July” as we present two different and delightful shows over three weekends in July in the air-conditioned South Barracks on the beautiful grounds of Fort Sisseton State Historical Park. 

Helping to make each performance successful is the NFP board of directors, a group of volunteers from a three-county area that are passionate about providing live theatre in northeastern South Dakota. Each year, your financial support is important in providing this summer theatre experience in a rural area. Donations at any level will help continue the tradition of summer theatre at Fort Sisseton for its 16th season in 2022. As a member of The Regiment Corp. you will be recognized in the program and on our website. Those at the “Captain” level and higher will also receive two complimentary tickets.

To get the 2022 season off to a great start, please complete the form in our newsletter and return it with your check OR credit card information before June 15, 2022 to Northern Fort Playhouse, P.O. Box 129, Britton, SD  47430-0129. For more information, call 605-467-3247. 

Thank you for considering a partnership with us to support and grow this unique theatre experience at historical Fort Sisseton.

Northern Fort Playhouse

Board of Directors