MarineMax Wrightsville Beach announced today that they are sponsoring a production of Mister Roberts, to be held on the deck of USS NORTH CAROLINA in Wilmington, July 4 - 23. In conjunction with opening night, they will also be hosting an exclusive Fourth of July Getaway! in downtown Wilmington for their customers. This production is a collaboration between the Thalian Association Community Theatre and the Friends of the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA.

“This exciting community partnership is a unique way to support local theater while highlighting Historic Wilmington’s scenic riverfront”, said Captain Terry Bragg, Executive Director of the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA. “We look forward to providing a memorable experience for all guests aboard the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA”.

Mister Roberts is the classic performance based on the 1946 Thomas Heggen novel of the same name. The novel began as a collection of short stories about Heggen’s experiences aboard the cargos ships USS VIRGO and USS ROTANIN in the South Pacific during World War II. Mister Roberts is the recipient of five Tony Awards including Best Play and is still considered one of the most successful performances today with a total of 1,157 performances over a three-year run on Broadway. The play was then adapted into the 1955 hit film starring legendary actors Henry Fonda as Lieutenant Roberts and James Cagney as Lt. Commander Morton. Mister Roberts went on to be an Academy Award nominee for Best Picture and Jack Lemmon received the 1955 Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his work on the film.

“This patriotic performance takes place aboard a ship in the Pacific Theater during WWII, and the fantail of the Battleship is the most perfect venue imaginable on which to stage it”, said Susan Habas, Executive Director of Thalian Association Community Theatre. “We operate the Hannah Block Historic USO/ Community Arts Center, so honoring WWII is always on our minds, and we are privileged to be partnering with the most decorated battleship of that time”.

 In celebration, MarineMax Wrightsville Beach will be hosting an exclusive Getaway! for their clients to enjoy a VIP reception with access to the production dress rehearsal on July 3. Then on opening night, July 4, they will take in the sights and sounds of Wilmington, finishing the evening with a spectacular firework display.

 “This opportunity is a perfect addition to our Fourth of July Getaway!” said Thom Cross, General Manager of MarineMax Wrightsville Beach. “We’re always looking for ways to enhance the trips that we organize for our customers. This event is a way for us to not only create a memorable group experience, but to also incorporate our community and promote the incredible location that we’re fortunate enough to live in.”

Tickets for all shows are now on sale at www.etix.com. Special ticket pricing for Opening Night July 4th are $50 adults/$25 children and include a grand view of Downtown Wilmington’s Fireworks display. Regular show prices range from $30 for adults, $25 for seniors, $15 for children and $15 for retired and active military. Special group rates apply for parties of 12 or more.

MarineMax Wrightsville Beach is excited to partner with such great organizations to bring awareness to an amazing production, and to be a patriotic supporter of this national historic landmark.