CANTON -- A storm is raging. Yet, the lightening and thunder can’t compete with the tumblings, rumblings and blunderings of the mysterious strangers that meet by chance at Freeman’s Tavern.

Who is the Vagabond – a motley dressed character who leaps into the audience with flamboyant speeches?

Why is Violet alternating between howling and fainting?

How does the Governor’s daughter keep her cool?

These are some of the characters in the Grasse River Players’ Canton Winterfest production of “The Tavern” by George M. Cohan, at The Club, 25 Court St., on Feb 16 and 17.

Cohan is perhaps best known as the composer of Yankee Doodle Dandy.

The Club becomes “the tavern.” The acting is broad and funny like a keystone cop romp. This play is a spoof, a farce and a melodrama all rolled into one belly laugh. The audience is invited to boo and hiss. There will be musical entertainments at the beginning of the play and at intermission.

Cocktails are at 5 p.m. from a cash bar. Dinner is at 6 p.m. The show starts around 7:15 p.m.

With tax and gratuity included, the dinner buffet and show is $40. Reservations are required and tickets can be purchased at The Pear Tree on Main Street.

For more information, call 315-212-0451.

Grasse River Players Community theatre has provided stage entertainment for more than 50 years.