There was no shortage of applause at Buzzards Play Productions Friday night when a cadre of musicians, actors and comedians performed for WCTV's "Applause for a Cause" benefit show.

Proceeds from the performance went towards Buzzards Play Productions at 3065 Cranberry Highway, a non-profit, performing arts venue that has been supporting a variety of local talent for nearly five years.

"We support our local theater and they support other non-profits," said Sally Morrison, who organized the event Friday as well as March's '"Applause" event at Buzzards Play. That event benefitted Turning Point, another local, non-profit organization.

"I'm so thrilled Sally wanted to do this for us. We really want this place to survive, prosper and grow," said Janice Rogers, who co-owns Buzzards Play Productions with her husband Frank.

Rogers said it costs $36,000 to 40,000 a year for regular upkeep of the venue, including some expensive heating bills.

"The actors are freezing when they rehearse in the winter," Rogers said with a laugh.

The venue runs a play or musical for about a month every two to three months.

Rogers said the venue's most recent performance, "Cabaret" was a great success. She said it cost $10,000 to produce but brought in $17,000. Rogers said they rely on the shows to support the other performances they run.

The venue offers unparalleled opportunities for local and emerging talent.

Aj Hapenny is a Buzzards Bay-based comedian who did a stand-up set on Friday and shared some of the hosting duties with Morrison. He also helps run the open mic night at Buzzards Play on the third Tuesday of every month. Rogers said he has brought in a number of comedians in the area and has given Buzzards Play the reputation of a comic workshop.

Resident Manny Moitoso spoke about an evening in 2011 when he saw "open audtions" on the marquee in front of Buzzards Play and decided to finally, after years of flirting with the idea, gave acting a try. Moitoso has now been in five plays there and will star as Ebeneezer Scrooge in "Christmas Carol" the next play at the venue.

"If you think you want to do it and aren't sure or scared…just do it," Moitoso said. "Don't wait until you're 52."

Rogers said over the years the venue has had its ups and downs and that it's always difficult to stay funded. Still, she is proud of the community Buzzards Play has been able to cultivate and the countless performances they have put on.

"We've grown we've learned and we wont regret any of it," she said.

For more information on upcoming shows or on how to donate to to Buzzards Play Productions, go to their website: http://www.buzzardsplayproductions.com/