The society's latest production, The Importance of Being Earnest, is due to open in two weeks and so far only 10 tickets have been sold.
South Otago Theatrical Society publicity officer Sarah Andrew said tickets normally sold out almost immediately.
The cast has been busy rehearsing since early February, in preparation for the April 21 opening night.
Director Ron Neilson said the test of any play was not how old or new, or how long or short it was.
"The test is how good it is, and The Importance of Being Earnest is very, very good."
Mr Neilson said the play, written by Irish playwright Oscar Wilde, was regarded as a masterpiece.
"Unlike many modern plays, it is very funny but never crude.
"The choice of words is brilliant, without resorting to the four-letter variety, and the actors get to delight an audience without having to get their clothes off."
The play has experienced something of a revival this year, with the Auckland Theatre Company also choosing to perform it this month.
Its story has also been threaded into episodes of Shortland Street.
"Some people may recall studying the play at high school.
"Others might have heard of the play but know nothing about it," Mr Neilson said.
"This may be your only chance to see it performed live."
