Reston Community Players Celebrate 58 Seasons of Stage Magic

by Kaydence Smith, Staff Writer

Andy Regiec (left) and Eileen Mullee in Reston Community Players rehearsal space. Photo contributed by Reston Community Players.

Reston Community Players [RCP] is entering its 58th season with productions that will leave audiences wanting more. Founded in 1966, RCP began when three Herndon residents approached Robert E. Simon, the founder of Reston, to ask if residents could perform their original musical, “The Greatest Game in Town.” Since then, RCP has staged more than 200 productions.

While actors may come and go across theaters, the core team of directors, producers, and managers remains steady. Eileen Mullee and Andrew “Andy” Regiec have been key members of RCP since the 1980s. Regiec directs most shows, contributes to set design, and occasionally performs, while Mullee primarily produces and manages the stage.

Regiec has been with RCP for 32 years but has been involved in theater for as long as he can remember. He recalls being "always on stage," a passion that has continued into adulthood. After earning a degree in theatre, he worked at the Reston Community Center, where RCP productions are held, before officially joining the group.

Mullee does not have a formal theater background. She joined RCP around 1985 after a friend encouraged her to audition for “The Sound of Music.” She sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” for her audition and was cast as a nun. Since then, she has become an integral part of RCP, working tirelessly behind the scenes.

Both Regiec and Mullee emphasize the importance of local theater, noting that RCP provides high production value and dedication at an affordable cost. Regiec described theater as “a way to escape reality,” even if just for a short time. Being part of RCP has given them a second family—a group of people they can trust and rely on. They highlight the importance of honesty and camaraderie in theater, as putting on a show requires significant time, dedication, and patience. Over the years, their bond has extended beyond the stage, forming lifelong friendships that continue to fuel their passion for the craft.

As a community-based theater group, RCP has had the opportunity to work with a wide range of talent from diverse backgrounds. Whether featuring seasoned professionals or first-time performers, RCP is dedicated to fostering a space where everyone can grow and thrive artistically. Each cast and crew member plays a crucial role in creating an unforgettable theater experience.

RCP’s next production is Mel Brooks’ “The Producers,” a musical comedy about two men who attempt to stage an intentionally bad show to avoid paying their actors and crew. Mullee and Regiec described it as a story about “friendship, growth, and trust, and dealing with the unexpected.” With grand, intricate musical numbers reminiscent of Broadway, the production promises to be a spectacle. Mullee and Regiec hope audiences leave the theater smiling. The performances will be lively and engaging, featuring an energetic cast and a dynamic atmosphere.

“The Producers” will run from April 18 to May 10, with tickets available at the Reston Community Center box office or online at restonplayers.org. The show is recommended for ages 13 and up due to mild language and sensitive topics.

Attending an RCP production is more than just watching a performance—it’s an opportunity to support local artists and a longstanding cultural institution in Reston. As the season continues, RCP looks forward to sharing even more productions with the community.