WILLIAMSPORT — Community Theatre League invites audiences to experience “You Can’t Take It With You,” one of the most beloved and hilarious comedies in American theatre history. This Pulitzer Prize-winning classic will take the CTL stage March 20-22 and March 26-29.

Written by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart, “You Can’t Take It With You” premiered on Broadway in 1936 and quickly became one of the most celebrated comedies of its era.

The play won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and went on to inspire the 1938 Frank Capra film adaptation, which earned two Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Nearly 90 years later, its wit, warmth and joyful chaos continue to delight audiences around the world.

Set in 1930s New York at the height of the Great Depression, the story centers on the delightfully eccentric Vanderhof-Sycamore family, a household that happily rejects convention in favor of creativity, curiosity and living life on their own terms. When Alice Sycamore falls in love with Tony Kirby, the son of a wealthy and conservative Wall Street family, the collision of these wildly different worlds leads to an unforgettable evening filled with misunderstandings, surprises and nonstop laughter.

While the play is celebrated for its quick wit and unforgettable characters, its message remains remarkably relevant.

Beneath the hilarity lies a simple but powerful idea: life is richer when we pursue joy, creativity and human connection rather than wealth and status. As Grandpa famously reminds those around him, “You can’t take it with you.”

The CTL production adds a playful twist to two of the show’s iconic roles. In this staging, the character traditionally known as Grandpa Vanderhof appears as Mrs. Vanderhof, portrayed by Tara Deljanovan, offering a spirited and wise matriarch at the center of the wonderfully unconventional household.

In another inspired choice, the exuberant Russian dance instructor Madame Kolenkhova is portrayed by CTL performer Helen Prien, bringing a fresh comedic energy to one of the play’s most delightfully eccentric characters.

Directed by Sara Jones, the production brings together a dynamic ensemble of CTL performers ready to deliver the fast paced humor, heartfelt moments and joyful absurdity that have made the play a theatrical favorite for generations.

“At a time when so many things in life feel complicated, ‘You Can’t Take It With You’ reminds us that joy can be wonderfully simple,” said Seth Sponhouse, Executive Artistic Director of Community Theatre League. “This play celebrates creativity, individuality and the kind of joyful chaos that happens when people choose connection over convention. It’s one of the great American comedies, and audiences will find themselves laughing while also recognizing how timeless its message truly is.”

Shows will take place at 7:30 p.m. on March 20, 21, 26, 27 and 28 and 2 p.m. on March 22 and 29.

Tickets cost $25 for adults, $23 for seniors, $20 for students and $15 for children under 12. They may be purchased by calling 570-327-1777 or online at www.ctlshows.com/season-49.

This season is sponsored by Hudock Capital Group, LLC and Eleanor Perciballi Charitable Fund.