Cabrillo Playhouse continues its reopening season with its next production, The Spitfire Grill, running July 10 through August 2, with performances Thursdays through Sundays.
This uplifting musical marks Cabrillo’s fifth production since reopening following its major renovation and brings a moving story of redemption, community, and second chances to San Clemente audiences.
Based on the 1996 film of the same name, The Spitfire Grill features music and book by James Valcq and lyrics and book by Fred Alley. The musical premiered Off-Broadway in 2001 at Playwrights Horizons, where it earned widespread praise and won the Richard Rodgers Production Award.
Set in the small Wisconsin town of Gilead, the story follows Percy Talbott, a young woman recently released from prison who is searching for a fresh start. Drawn to Gilead by a photograph she discovers in an old travel book, Percy arrives with little more than hope and determination. She soon finds work at the Spitfire Grill, a struggling local diner owned by the stubborn but compassionate Hannah Ferguson.
As Percy gradually earns the trust of the town’s residents, she helps breathe new life into the diner and, in the process, begins healing wounds that have lingered in the community for years. Featuring a heartfelt folk and Americana-inspired score brought to life by live musicians, The Spitfire Grill is a moving story about forgiveness, resilience, friendship, and the power of finding home in unexpected places.
Directing the production is Ella Wyatt, who previously directed Cabrillo Playhouse’s Murder Mystery at the Murder Mystery dinner theatre production at Casino San Clemente. Wyatt is also the drama teacher at San Clemente High School and a lifelong performer with a degree in Theatre from California State University, Long Beach.
“At its core, The Spitfire Grill is a story of forgiveness, not only of others, but also of ourselves,” Wyatt said. “The characters in this show are real, flawed people carrying guilt about things that have happened in their pasts, and throughout the course of the show they learn that despite those experiences, they still deserve happiness. On top of that, the music in this show, which will be performed by a live band, is gorgeous, and this cast has some of the most incredible voices I’ve heard in a long time. You won’t want to miss this emotional and uplifting production.”
With its rich Americana score and deeply human story, The Spitfire Grill offers an uplifting theatrical experience that reminds audiences of the power of second chances and the importance of community. Following its run, Cabrillo will conclude its season with Around the World in 80 Days, opening August 21. The Playhouse recently announced its 2026-2027 season, giving audiences even more to look forward to in the year ahead.
For tickets and more information, visit cabrilloplayhouse.org.