Culture

Brownwood Lyric Theatre’s Puffs turns the overlooked students into the stars of a hilarious magical comedy

Brownwood Lyric Theatre’s production of Puffs offers a fast-paced, affectionate comedy about the students left outside the spotlight of a familiar wizarding story. A review praised the cast, simple set and audience interaction ahead of the final performances on September 19 and 20.

By Brownwood Chronicle desk Published September 18, 2026 at 12:45 PM Updated September 18, 2026 at 8:00 AM

There is more than one way to tell a magical school story, and Brownwood Lyric Theatre’s Puffs puts the spotlight on the students who are usually left in the background. The production follows the young people trying to survive seven years at a school of witchcraft and wizardry, rather than the famous student with the lightning-shaped scar.

In a review published September 18, the production was described as a fast-moving comedy filled with one-liners, physical situations and a strong sense of fun. The show’s final performances are scheduled for Saturday, September 19, at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, September 20, at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. at the Brownwood Lyric Theatre.

Tickets are available through brownwoodlyrictheatre.com.

A simple set keeps the comedy moving

One of the production’s strengths is its restrained staging. Rather than filling the Lyric Theatre stage with large set pieces and elaborate backdrops, the production uses a simple set that allows the actors to move freely. That approach suits a story set in one of the most recognizable fictional worlds, where the audience already understands the broad setting.

The uncluttered stage also supports the speed of the comedy. Actors can move quickly through the story, while the show’s jokes and situations build on the audience’s familiarity with the magical world it is reimagining. The result is a production that keeps its focus on the performers and the relationships among the characters.

Young performers lead an ensemble cast

Tanner Gammon plays Wayne, an enthusiastic and determined student who wants to become the hero. The review praised Gammon’s charm and suggested that Wayne’s ambition gives the character a chance to shine on his own.

Aizlyn Denton plays Megan, a student who appears to be out of place in her house but gradually reveals how much she values finding a group of friends. Benjamin Blanton portrays Oliver as more timid and anxious about belonging, while also showing his happiness at connecting with people.

AJ Tidwell helps guide the audience through the production with a performance that was described as both magical and comic. His work continues during intermission, when he remains in character and improvises conversations with audience members.

Aaron Ray plays Cedric, a respected leader whose warmth makes him someone the other students look up to. The review noted that his character’s eventual outcome carries added emotional weight because of that sense of leadership and connection.

The ensemble completes the production, with performers taking on adult roles and a range of awkward, loud, ridiculous or easily overlooked students. According to the review, the cast’s visible enjoyment spreads into the audience and helps give the show its energy.

Final weekend offers four chances to see the show

Puffs is presented as a funny and creative night out built around the students who are not the chosen ones. The review credited the teens, adults and production crew with bringing substantial effort and affection to the show.

Saturday, September 19: 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 20: 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Venue: Brownwood Lyric Theatre
Tickets: brownwoodlyrictheatre.com

For Brownwood audiences looking for a locally performed comedy with a familiar magical backdrop and a different point of view, the remaining four performances provide the final opportunity to see the Lyric Theatre production.