Fox Valley Theatre Co. presents fresh take on wizarding world with ‘Puffs’

Fox Valley Theatre Company is getting ready to present “Puffs,” an offbeat journey through a certain well-known wizarding school, but this time, from the perspective of the underdogs.

Performances run Friday through Sunday, Sept. 5-7 and 12-14 at the Elgin Community College SecondSpace Theatre, Building H, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. For tickets, $16-$18, and information, visit cteelgin.com/puffs.

Written by Matt Cox, “Puffs” follows the story of Wayne Hopkins, a regular boy from New Mexico who discovers he’s a wizard and is whisked off to magic school. There, he’s sorted into the Puffs, the kind, loyal, and often overlooked house. Over seven school years filled with epic adventures and comedic chaos, Wayne and his Puff friends, including the math-loving Oliver Rivers and the fierce Megan Jones, learn what it means to be brave in their own uniquely Puff way.

Audiences can expect big laughs, clever storytelling, and a heartfelt message about finding your place, even if it’s not always in the spotlight. With plenty of magical mayhem and a fresh perspective on a familiar world, “Puffs” is a must-see for fans and newcomers alike. You’ll leave the theater grinning, remembering that “third place” can be pretty magical — and that every wizard deserves a moment in the spotlight.

“Working with this incredible cast of students on ‘Puffs’ has been a joyful and energizing experience,” said director Stephanie Uzomba. “Bringing to life a story that celebrates the underdogs — and adds lots of laughs along the way — has given our students the chance to shine, challenge themselves, and most importantly, have fun. Their comedic timing, creative ideas, and genuine support of one another prove that magic happens both on and off the stage.”

“Puffs” is rated PG-13 for language and magical mayhem, making it most suitable for teens and adults. Fox Valley Theatre Company is committed to making theater accessible to all and will offer two special performances: a free sensory-friendly show at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, designed for neurodiverse audiences and individuals with sensory sensitivities; and an ASL-interpreted performance to accommodate members of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12. To learn more about these performances, visit cteelgin.com or call (847) 214-7152.