Something’s Cooking at the Spitfire Grill

Swift Creek Mill Theatre’s “Spitfire Grill” is the story of a woman who’s simply trying to get by with the cards she’s been dealt, while reconnecting with nature and ultimately coming to terms with her past and what it means for her future. This is told through compelling dialog and musical numbers, accented by dynamic lighting and set design by Tom Width and Steve Koehler. Tom also served as director.

The show begins with Percy behind bars. A striking image which sets the tone for Percy’s character and later informs many of her decisions and motivations throughout the story.

Percy finishes her 5-year stint in prison and inspired from a travel guide, chooses the small town of Gilead, Maine as her next destination.

She finds work as a waitress at the Spitfire Grill, owned by the grumpy Hannah Ferguson, played by Joy Williams. She’s abrasive, but accepting of Percy, much to the dismay of her nephew Caleb, played by Scott Melton.

Throughout the story, Percy navigates relationships with the other townsfolk too, including Effy the postmistress (played by Tara Callahan Carrol), Shelby her fellow waitress (played by Grey Garrett), and the mysterious “Visitor” played by Brian Vaughan and Austen Linder.

Hannah has wanted to sell the grill for years, with help from Caleb who’s functioning as her realtor. But there hasn’t been much interest, so Percy and Shelby come up with the idea of raffling it off. They create an ad describing the grill and take applications from all over the country, requiring applicants to explain why they want/deserve the grill, as well as including a small application fee.

Effy comes into play as she delivers the dozens of letters that come in bidding for the grill. She’s suspicious of Percy, and doesn’t take kindly to a convict moving into town.

For much of the story, Percy’s past remains a mystery. We know she was in prison for 5 years, but we don’t know why. It’s eventually revealed in a heartbreaking moment with Shelby, accompanied by a beautiful song.

Meanwhile, a romance buds between Percy and Joe (who are played by the married power couple of Lindsey and Jeff who also celebrated their anniversary during the run – congrats!)

Brian Vaughan played the “Visitor” during my attendance, whose identity remained a compelling mystery throughout the performance.

This show has drama, heartfelt music, and believable performances from the entire cast.

It’s a show that’s grounded and relatable, accented by fun and catchy music. Some of my favorites were “Shoot the Moon,” “Wild Bird,” and “Shine.” Swift Creek Mill strikes gold with this underrated gem of a show, and runs through August 2, 2025.

The Cast

As photographer of this show, I have the unique opportunity to write a review that features imagery from the entire show, helping me to convey the experience to you, the readers. It also entitles me to selfies!