The year is 1889 in an old gold mining town called Gold Town. Locals spend their day panning for tiny flecks of precious gold, not knowing they’re sitting over the mother lode of all gold veins. In nearby Fandango, greedy railroad baron Bart plots and ploys to get the claim owned by Prospector Clem. And then, the real showdown begins … dun, Dun, DUN!

Ok, ok, so the play isn’t that dramatic, but I couldn’t resist the little flair. Gold Town Showdown is actually a family-friendly musical comedy written and directed by Jerry Way. Featuring a cast of 33 veterans and newbies, this show is “community theater at its best,” says executive director Deb Johnson.

The Heyde Center in Chippewa Falls is bringing back the popular dinner theater with this play. Before the show begins, you can dine cowboy-style with a Western barbeque complete with all the sides (baked fish will also be available on Friday). Dinner starts at 6pm.

The Showdown runs from March 27-30. The dinner is available Thursday through Saturday, with a matinee on Sunday (no meal). Ticket prices are: adults $12, seniors $11, youth $5. For both the dinner and the play, tickets are $28 per person. For more information, visit the Heyde Center’s website at www.cvca.net or call (715) 726-9000.