Alison Knapik, a beloved social studies teacher and director of spring musicals at Delavan High School, is returning to her theatrical roots this summer as she steps into the lead role of Sarah Brown in Lincoln Community Theatre’s upcoming production of Guys and Dolls.

Knapik's journey to the spotlight began at just ten years old, when she was cast as Marta Von Trapp in the Lincoln Community High School production of The Sound of Music. That early performance sparked a passion for theater that would go on to shape both her professional and personal life.

While attending the University of Illinois, Alison joined The Penny Dreadful Players, a student-run theater group known for inventive productions. During a performance of The Mousetrap, she met fellow cast member Dave Knapik. The two began dating shortly after the curtain closed and have since formed a creative partnership—acting in, directing, and running tech for dozens of shows together, including 13 productions at Delavan High School.

This summer marks a milestone for Knapik: her first time performing in a musical since her senior year of college in 2009. “I really didn't expect to get a lead role my first time back in the saddle, but here we are,” she said. “I am already so impressed with the other actors in this show, particularly the amazing singing voices.”

Knapik will bring her talents to the role of Sarah Brown, a straight-laced missionary who finds herself swept into a whirlwind romance in the world of gamblers and nightclubs. Directed by Derry Dalby, Guys and Dolls runs July 24–27 at the Lincoln Community High School auditorium. The cast also features Dave Helm as Sky Masterson, Jeff Prince as Nathan Detroit, and Jill Usherwood as Adelaide.

Lincoln Community Theatre’s summer shows are a beloved tradition in central Illinois, and this year’s production promises charm, humor, and dazzling performances. Showtimes are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 2:00 p.m.

Tickets and more information are available at the Lincoln Community Theater Facebook page located at https://www.facebook.com/LincolnCommunityTheatre.

From a childhood role in The Sound of Music to center stage in Guys and Dolls, Alison Knapik’s theatrical journey is a testament to enduring passion and boundless talent. Bravo!