AT THE HEART OF
AND MORE
MUSIC
FILM
COMEDY
THEATRE
THE ARTS AND E NTE RTAINME NT
2018-2019 SEASON
MESSAGE FROM THE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
It’s hard to believe, but we are entering into our 32nd season as downtown Wilkes-Barre’s premier performing arts venue, while also celebrating the 80th birthday of the beautiful building that houses it. Welcome to the F.M. Kirby Center’s 2018-2019 Season! While we have so much to look forward to, let’s quickly revisit a record-setting 2017. The Kirby Center sold nearly 73,000 tickets during the calendar year, while averaging more than one event every three days. Those efforts ranked our venue at #104 on Pollstar’s Worldwide List of Theater Venues based on ticket sales for 2017. As we look forward to continuing that progression in 2018-2019, we do so with a staunch focus on our mission as a nonprofit 501(c)(3). Our Young People’s Theater Series will once again host more than 8,000 students FREE of charge, while our Signature Series will once again cost just $10 per ticket. We are also excited to announce that we have joined forces with King’s College to host and produce four, FREE, sensory-friendly performances of Julianne Moore’s Freckleface Strawberry: The Musical. Sensory-friendly theatre exists in order to make theatrical experiences accessible to audience members with autism and other disorders that may cause sensitivity to sensory stimuli. Our 2018-2019 season also includes one of our busiest Broadway series to date, with seven performances spread over four exciting titles. The smash-hit Kinky Boots, Rodgers and Hammerstein‘s Cinderella and the widely-popular Rock of Ages come to town for two performances each, while the hilarious Something Rotten visits for one performance on November 4. As you turn the pages of this brochure, you will find many more exciting titles, and of course so many more will be added throughout the season. So please stay tuned! Finally, please consider joining us as a member of the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts. Annual memberships start at just $50, and they earn you pre-sale ticket access to every performance. More importantly, memberships truly help to underwrite our mission, which is to bring the cultural arts and artseducation into our community.
William M. Beekman, III Executive Director
Jesse Faatz
SEASON
1819
AT A GL ANCE
JULY Dion* Friday, July 27, 2018, 7:30 p.m.
Yanni*
Rock of Ages Tuesday & Wednesday, October 16 & 17, 2018, 7:30 p.m.
The Improvised Shakespeare Company Friday, October 19, 2018, 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, July 31, 2018, 7:00 p.m.
AUGUST Blues Traveler*
NOVEMBER Stayin’ Alive: One Night of the Bee Gees Friday, November 2, 2018, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, August 1, 2018, 8:00 p.m.
Something Rotten!
Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Beth Hart*
The Fast Lane: A Tribute to the Eagles*
Thursday, August 2, 2018, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, November 4, 2018, 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, November 17, 2018, 8:00 p.m.
Kansas*
SEPTEMBER Foghat and Savoy Brown* Saturday, September 1, 2018, 7:30 p.m.
Sebastian Maniscalco*
Friday, November 23, 2018, 7:30 p.m.
A Charlie Brown Christmas Wednesday, November 28, 2018, 6:30 p.m.
Charlotte’s Web Thursday, November 29, 2018, 10:00 a.m.
Friday, September 14, 2018, 7:00 p.m.
An Evening with Pete Rose Live Saturday, September 15, 2018, 7:30 p.m.
DECEMBER Femmes of Rock
OCTOBER
Wednesday, December 12, 2018, 7:30 p.m.
We The People
Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker
Thursday, October 4, 2018, 10:00 a.m.
Friday, December 14, 2018, 7:00 p.m.
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
A Magical Cirque Christmas
Thursday, October 11, 2018, 7:00 p.m.
Catapult Friday, October 12, 2018, 7:00 p.m.
Thursday, December 20, 2018, 7:30 p.m.
JANUARY Freedom Train Monday, January 28, 2019, 10:00 a.m.
MARCH Laura Ingalls Wilder Tuesday, March 12, 2019, 10:00 a.m.
Rogers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella Wednesday & Thursday, March 13 & 14, 2019, 7:30 p.m.
APRIL Kinky Boots Sunday, April 7, 2019, 1:30 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.
Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular Saturday, April 13, 2019, 8:00 p.m.
MAY One Night in Memphis Friday, May 3, 2019, 7:30 p.m.
Aesop’s Fables Thursday, May 16, 2019, 10:00 a.m.
*indicated shows already on sale
KIRBY ME MBERS PRE-SALE: TUESDAY, JUNE 5 @ 10:0 0 A. M.
PUBLIC ON-SALE: FRIDAY, JUNE 15 @ 10:0 0 A. M.
More shows will be added throughout the season, so stay logged on to kirbycenter.org or follow us on social media!
CONTAC T THE BOX OFFICE AT 570.826.1100 FOR FURTHER SHOW INFORMATION.
BECOME A
KIRBY MEMBER TODAY! SUPPORT THE KIRBY CE NTER BECOME A MEMBER OR CORPORATE SPONSOR The F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts is a nonprofit organization that relies on community support from members and corporate sponsors to fulfill our mission. Each year we provide an array of over 80 cultural and educational shows that promote artist quality, accessibility and education for all members of the community and beyond. The Kirby Center is an award-winning cultural arts center right in downtown Wilkes-Barre! The Kirby Center received several awards including the 2017 Best Music Venue, and Best Entertainment Venue by The Times Leader, and Best Live Entertainment Venue by the Citizens’ Voice. Pollstar also ranked the Kirby Center #104 in the world based on ticket sales in 2017. In August of 2017, an Economic Impact Study showed that the Kirby Center generates nearly $9.8 million in annual economic impact in Luzerne County. We are the best venue to see Broadway, comedians, concerts and cultural events that enrich our community. Join now at www.kirbycenter.org/JoinNow.
WHY BECOME A CORPOR ATE SPONSOR? •
When you become a member you are helping us to continue our mission of bringing the best entertainment to downtown Wilkes-Barre.
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You help us to provide nearly 8,0 0 0 children with the opportunity to attend live theater performances through our Young People’s Theater Series each year. As of 2015, admission is free (reser vations required).
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You also help us to offer free masters classes that give children the opportunity to interact, perform and learn from traveling artists from national touring companies.
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We are able to partner with 45 social ser vice agencies to distribute more than 2,0 0 0 free tickets to our underser ved community through our Community Outreach Program.
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You help us provide area Healthcare Agencies with the opportunity to offer free tickets to their patients and families.
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You help preser ve a historic icon.
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Your membership is tax-deductible and you get some incredible benefits that come with it.
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You are the first to know about upcoming shows and the first to buy the best seats in the house.
WHY BECOME A SPONSOR? Get your business in front of thousands of people each year while helping to make an arts education experience possible for thousands of children and also help us to be able to distribute free tickets to our community based nonprofit organizations serving low income residents through our community outreach program. When you become a Kirby Sponsor you not only get the member benefits but you also receive advertising benefits which give you exposure to thousands of patrons. • Over 70,0 0 0 tickets are sold each year • Over 35,0 0 0 valid email addresses • Over 20,0 0 0 social media followers • Over 50,0 0 0 page views per month on our website
DID YOU KNOW? •
The F.M. Kirby Center is a nonprofit organization that relies on community support to fulfill its mission.
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Since 1986, more than 10 0,0 0 0 children have attended our Young People’s Theater Series. Teachers receive study guides enabling classroom integration.
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As of 2015, admission is free (reser vations required).
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As part of our Arts Education program, FREE Master Classes and Teachers In-Ser vice workshops are taught by touring professionals at local schools and businesses.
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Through our Community Outreach Program, each season, the F.M. Kirby Center partners with 75 social ser vice agencies to distribute more than 2,0 0 0 FREE tickets to our underser ved community.
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We partner with area Healthcare Agencies to provide FREE tickets to their patients and families.
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We preser ve a historic icon.
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Our venue is THE happening place and helps promote economic prosperity in downtown Wilkes-Barre and the surrounding area.
KIRBY CENTER
MEMBERSHIP GIVING LEVEL S DIA MOND LEVE L
$1,000
• Opportunity to purchase 10 tickets during member pre-sale • 10% discount on participating Kirby-presented performances • 10 complimentary beverage coupons at Kirby Center • Meet and Greet drawing for participating performances
KIRBY KARD ACCESS • 50% discount to participating LIVE from the Chandelier Lobby shows • 2 free admissions to each film within the W. Curtis Montz Film Series • Box Office Concierge service • Donor recognition event invitations • Special event invitations • Donor recognition on annual honor rolls • Access to the Kirby Center’s new Mohegan Sun Pocono Parlor
PL ATINUM LEVE L
$500
• Opportunity to purchase 8 tickets during member pre-sale • 10% discount on participating Kirby-presented performances • 5 complimentary beverage coupons at Kirby Center
KIRBY KARD ACCESS • 50% discount to participating LIVE from the Chandelier Lobby shows • 2 free admissions to each film within the W. Curtis Montz Film Series • Box Office Concierge service • Donor recognition event invitations • Special event invitations • Donor recognition on annual honor rolls • Access to the Kirby Center’s new Mohegan Sun Pocono Parlor
GOLD LEVE L
$250
• Opportunity to purchase 6 tickets during member pre-sale • 2 complimentary beverage coupons at Kirby Center
KIRBY KARD ACCESS • 50% discount to participating LIVE from the Chandelier Lobby shows • 2 free admissions to each film within the W. Curtis Montz Film Series • Donor recognition event invitations • Special event invitations • Donor recognition on annual honor rolls • Access to the Kirby Center’s new Mohegan Sun Pocono Parlor
SILVER LEVE L
$100
• Opportunity to purchase 4 tickets during member pre-sale • 4 free movie passes to a film within the W. Curtis Montz Film Series • Donor recognition event invitations • Donor recognition on annual honor rolls
BRONZE LEVE L
$50
• Opportunity to purchase 2 tickets during member pre-sale • 2 free movie passes to a film within the W. Curtis Montz Film Series • Donor recognition on annual honor rolls
CORPORATE
SPONSORSHIP ME MBERSHIPS BEGIN AT $ 5 0 0 SPONSORSHIPS BEGIN AT $2,5 0 0 The F.M. Kirby Center customizes benefits to meet our donors’ interests: • • • • • • • • •
Naming Rights Opportunities Various sponsorship opportunities E-marketing and social media recognition Ticket discounts Complimentar y tickets Complimentar y meeting and entertainment space Onsite corporate recognition Kirby Center website recognition Special requests when possible
The F.M. Kirby Center is an EITC participating organization. By making a contribution to the Kirby Center’s Arts Education Program through EITC, companies can receive tax credits equal to 90% of the total contribution, if your company commits to the program for two consecutive years. Please call the Development Office at 823 -4599, ext 225 or visit our website at kirbycenter.org/corporate.
BLUES TRAVELER Wednesday, August 1, 2018, 8:00 p.m. Ticket Prices: $25.00, $35.00 & $45.00 Blues Traveler emerged in the early 1990s as part of a new vanguard of jam bands in the tradition of the Grateful Dead and the Allman Brothers. Now see them on their 30th Anniversary Tour performing their hit songs, like ‘Run-Around’ and ‘Hook’!
SE BASTIAN MANISCALCO Friday, September 14, 2018, 7:00 p.m. Ticket Prices: $47.50, $67.50 & $153.00 (VIP) After selling out two back-to-back shows at the Kirby Center in 2017, comedian Sebastian Maniscalco returns for two more shows! The Italian American funnyman has several wildly successful network specials including, ‘Why Would You Do That?,’ ‘What’s Wrong With People?’ and ‘Aren’t You Embarrassed?’
VISIT KIRBYCENTER.ORG FOR MORE SHOWS
CONCERTS & COMEDY
DION Friday, July 27, 2018, 7:30 p.m. Ticket Prices: $45.00, $55.00, $65.00 & $79.00 Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and former member of the Belmonts, Dion defined Rock and Roll for a generation. Now, the “Runaround Sue” singer brings his hit oldies to the F.M. Kirby Center!
YANNI Tuesday, July 31, 2018, 7:00 p.m. Ticket Prices: $49.50, $59.50, $79.50 & $99.50 Legendary performer and composer, Yanni has been awarded more than 40 platinum and gold albums worldwide. This year he stops at the F.M. Kirby Center with his new tour, celebrating the 25th Anniversary of his iconic “Live At The Acropolis” live album.
KE NNY WAYNE SHE PHERD BAND AND BETH HART BAND Thursday, August 2, 2018, 7:30 p.m. Ticket Prices: $34.75, $39.75, $49.75, $59.75 & $74.75 Rock guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd returns to the Kirby Center for a collaborative, national tour with singer-songwriter Beth Hart. Don’t miss these two Blues rockstars come together for one incredible night!
CONCERTS & COMEDY
FOGHAT AND SAVOY BROWN Saturday, September 1, 2018, 7:30 p.m. Ticket Prices: $32.50, $42.50 & $52.50 Owners of eight Gold, one Platinum and one Double Platinum records, Foghat promises to take you on a “Slow Ride” back to the golden era of classic rock and roll. Don’t miss what promises to be an unforgettable evening featuring very special guests, Savoy Brown.
AN EVE NING WITH PETE ROSE LIVE Saturday, September 15, 2018, 7:30 p.m. Ticket Prices: $28.00, $33.00, $53.00 & $103.00 (VIP) An Evening with Pete Rose Live is a Broadway style theatrical event that captures the golden years of America’s pastime. Baseball’s Hit King, Pete Rose, shares stories of baseball’s past as only Pete can. This production uses hi-tech multimedia that creates a game-day atmosphere where the audience will be transported to the golden era of Baseball! An Evening with Pete Rose Live is a Home Run!
STAYLIN’ ALIVE: ONE NIGHT OF THE BE E GE ES Friday, November 2, 2018, 7:30 p.m. Ticket Prices: $28.00, $33.00 & $38.00 Stayin’ Alive is the quintessential tribute band to the Bee Gees, capturing the excitement of live performance and the tender subtleties of the human voice! Staylin’ Alive is the largest and most definitive production of its kind, singing blockbusters such as “Night Fever,” “Jive Talkin’,” “How Deep Is Your Love,” “You Should Be Dancing,” “Nights on Broadway,” and “Stayin’ Alive.”
K ANSAS Friday, November 23, 2018, 7:30 p.m. Ticket Prices: $49.50, $69.50 & $126.00 Celebrating the 40 th Anniversary of their massive hit album Point of Know Return, the progressive rock band, Kansas is back on tour. The ‘Carry On Wayward Son’ singers will visit the Kirby Center for one unforgettable night, playing Point of Know Return in its entirety, plus all their classic hits!
FEMMES OF ROCK Wednesday, December 12, 2018, 7:30 p.m. Ticket Prices: $28.00, $33.00 & $38.00 Bella Electric Strings, led by rock violinist and arranger Nina DiGregorio, has rocked audiences worldwide with their blistering solos, unique arrangements—not to mention their beauty and charm. The girls have performed with some of the biggest names in the business and have appeared on America’s Got Talent Season 1. The Femmes of Rock show takes Bella Strings to a whole new level, featuring the music of AC/DC, ELO, Queen, Led Zeppelin, The Eagles, Jimi Hendrix, Prince, Metallica, David Bowie, Pink Floyd, and more!
THE PINK FLOYD L ASER SPEC TACUL AR Saturday, April 13, 2019, 8:00 p.m. Ticket Prices: $25.00 This laser spectacular is a cult classic, presenting the music of Pink Floyd like you’ve never seen it before. Driven by cutting edge effects, your senses are confronted with an array of visual displays, choreographed to the soundtrack of this incredible experience. This show has become a favorite with classic rock fans of all ages!
ONE NIGHT IN MEMPHIS Friday, May 3, 2019, 7:30 p.m. Ticket Prices: $25.00, $29.50 & $39.50 Get ready for a night of rockabilly, country, gospel and pure 1950’s rock and roll with “One Night in Memphis” – a high energy concert that takes you back to December 4, 1956, the night when four of the biggest names in early rock and roll – Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash – gathered together for an impromptu jam session at the legendary Sun Studios in Memphis.
AT THE
ROCK OF AGES Tuesday & Wednesday, October 16 & 17, 2018, 7:30 p.m. Ticket Prices: $45.00, $55.00 & $65.00 Broadway’s Best Party is turning up the volume to ten! The Rock of Ages Tenth Anniversary Tour is blazing across North America! Featuring the music of hit bands such as Styx, Poison, Twisted Sister, and Whitesnake among many others, this Tenth Anniversary production features a dynamic new cast revisiting the larger than life characters and exhilarating story that turned Rock of Ages into a global phenomenon.
SOMETHING ROT TE N! Sunday, November 4, 2018, 7:00 p.m. Ticket Prices: $45.00, $55.00 & $65.00 Something Rotten! is “Broadway’s big, fat hit!” (New York Post). Set in 1595, this hilarious smash tells the story of Nick and Nigel Bottom, two brothers who are desperate to write a hit play. When a local soothsayer foretells that the future of theatre involves singing, dancing and acting at the same time, Nick and Nigel set out to write the world’s very first MUSICAL! With its heart on its ruffled sleeve and sequins in its soul, Something Rotten! is “The Producers + Spamalot + The Book of Mormon. Squared!” (New York Magazine).
ROGERS + HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERE LL A Wednesday & Thursday, March 13 & 14, 2019, 7:30 p.m. Ticket Prices: $45.00, $55.00 & $65.00 Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella is the Tony Award®winning Broadway musical from the creators of The Sound of Music and South Pacific that’s delighting audiences with its contemporary take on the classic tale. This lush production features an incredible orchestra, jaw-dropping transformations and all the moments you love—the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more—plus some surprising new twists! Be transported back to your childhood as you rediscover some of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible” and “Ten Minutes Ago,” in this hilarious and romantic Broadway experience for anyone who’s ever had a wish, a dream... or a really great pair of shoes.
KINKY BOOTS Sunday, April 7, 2019, 1:30 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. Ticket Prices: $45.00, $55.00 & $65.00 Kinky Boots is Broadway’s huge-hearted, high-heeled hit! With songs by Grammy® and Tony®-winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, this joyous musical celebration is about the friendships we discover, and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind. Inspired by true events, Kinky Boots will take you from a gentlemen’s shoe factory in Northampton to the glamorous catwalks of Milan.
The National Tour of Kinky Boots. Photo credit: Matthew Murphy.
SIGNATURE SERIES Our 2018-2019 Signature Series is underwritten by the generosity of the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts. As a result, all tickets will be $10.
MARY SHE LLEY’S FRANKE NSTE IN Thursday, October 11, 2018, 7:00 p.m. Ticket Prices: $10.00 Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein: The Modern Prometheus, was the first true science fiction novel. Two hundred years later, Frankenstein still poses a myriad of critical ethical questions. Aquila Theatre’s production of this timeless classic will be bold and thrilling – while paying homage to the original, frightening writing of Mary Shelley.
CATAPULT Friday, October 12, 2018, 7:00 p.m. Ticket Prices: $10.00 Catapult is, technically, a shadow dance company. What it really is: a theatrical art form that is an amazingly imaginative combination of dance, story-telling, and sculpture. Catapult catapulted to fame on Season 8 of America’s Got Talent, earning their way to the finals of the NBC-TV hit show.
THE IMPROVISE D SHAKESPEARE COMPANY Friday, October 19, 2018, 7:30 p.m. Ticket Prices: $10.00 Based on one audience suggestion, The Improvised Shakespeare Company creates a fully improvised Shakespearean masterpiece right before your eyes. Nothing has been planned out, rehearsed, or written. All of the dialogue is said for the first time, the characters are created as you watch, and if ever you’re wondering where the story is going...so are they! You’ve never seen the Bard like this before!
AT THE
A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS Wednesday, November 28, 2018, 6:30 p.m. Ticket Prices: $25.00, $35.00 & $45.00z $35.00 VIP upgrade to any ticket Everyone’s favorite holiday classic comes to life in the allnew touring production A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage! Adapted from Charles M. Schulz’s timeless story of the spirit of Christmas, this live show features the unforgettable music of Vince Guaraldi, as well as a concert of beloved holiday carols performed by the Peanuts characters. There’s no better way to discover the magic of the season!
MOSCOW BALLET ’S GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER Friday, December 14, 2018, 7:00 p.m. Ticket Prices: $28.00, $38.00, $48.00, & $68.00
A NEW FAMILY HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR
Christmas is coming and so is the one and only Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. Presenting world class Russian artists, hand-painted sets, Russian Snow Maidens, and jubilant Nesting Dolls – Great Russian Nutcracker brings the Christmas spirit to life for all ages. “Kids wide-eyed with delight!” says the New York Times. Experience the Dove of Peace Tour, spreading goodwill in over 100 cities across North America. Get seats now for the whole family and make memories for a lifetime at Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker! www.nutcracker.com
A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS Thursday, December 20, 2018, 7:30 p.m. Ticket Prices: $38.00, $48.00, $58.00 & $125.00 (VIP)
P E R F O R M I N G
YOUR FAVORITE CHRISTMAS CLASSICS
A holiday entertainment blockbuster set to dazzle audiences of all ages. Featuring the best talent from around the globe, A Magical Cirque Christmas has it all – jaw-dropping magic, breathtaking circus acts, and the most angelic voices singing your favorite Christmas carols with incredible live musicians on stage. Be transported to the golden age of entertainment by the mind-blowing talents, stunning costumes, comedy and more.
2018 -19
ARTS & EDUCATION YOUNG PEOPLE ’S THEATER Consider it edutainment! It’s the best of both worlds as the F.M. Kirby Center provides schoolday productions that are both entertaining and educational while enriching the lives of children, youth and the underserved populations. Due to the support we receive from individuals, businesses and foundations, this series is FREE! Each performance comes with its own study guide that brings the lesson from the stage into the classroom. If Not Us, Who? While school districts have dramatically cut or have completely eliminated arts from their budgets, the Kirby Center’s Arts Education Program provides the solution to this vital question.
M ASTER CL ASSES Working with national tour companies, the F.M. Kirby Center also provides free Master Classes to students and teachers studying dance and theater. Our Master Classes feature hands-on instruction direct from the touring professionals.
KIRBY KIDZ The F.M. Kirby Center is also proud to once again partner with the Harris Conservatory for the Arts to offer the Sixth Annual Kirby Kidz Summer Theater Workshop. This exciting program, unique to Northeast Pennsylvania, is designed to offer that “Kirby Experience” to all aspiring schoolage actors, singers and dancers. The Kirby Kidz program is an eight week long theatrical workshop open to both the experienced and novice actors ages five through eighteen years of age. The program, unique to Northeast Pennsylvania, is designed to offer that “Kirby Experience” to all aspiring school age actors, singers and dancers. Kirby Kidz is a product of the F.M. Kirby Center’s and the Harris Conservatory for the Arts outreach programs respectively. The two regional arts organizations have developed this actor’s clinic to offer a professional theater experience to children across Northeast Pennsylvania. The program features over 60 hours of instruction in character acting, method acting, auditioning, sight reading, stage direction, voice, theater movement, costuming, make up, dance and the technical aspects of staging a performance. The readers of NEPA Family magazine have voted Kirby Kidz the “Family Favorite” for children’s theater programs for two years running. The 2018 Kirby Kidz program will be producing two musicals, Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka Kids for actors ages five though ten years and Disney’s The Lion King Junior for actors eleven through fifteen years of age. Each participant in the workshop will have their name appear in lights on the Kirby Center’s marquee the night of each performance. If registered by May 30th, the cost for the eight-week seminar is only $350. After May 30th, registration costs $375. Classes are held at the Harris Conservatory for the Arts, 545 Charles Street in Luzerne, PA. The week of the show, the cast will rehearse at the F.M. Kirby Center. For more information call the Harris Conservatory for the Arts at 570-718-0673 or visit the Kirby Center’s website at www.kirbycenter.org or the conservatory’s website at www.harrisconservatory.org. You may also e-mail them directly at harrisconservatory@yahoo.com.
YOUNG PEOPLE’S THEATER SERIES
WE THE PEOPLE
Thursday, October 4, 2018, 10:00 a.m. We The People is a musical revue that brings American Civics lessons to life and promises to make Social Studies exciting and accessible. Barreling through a variety of musical styles relevant to today’s youth, including rock, rhythm-and-blues, and hip-hop, We the People will instill American pride in audiences of all ages, and perhaps even inspire them to get involved and make a difference. Grades 4-8
CHARLOT TE’S WE B
Thursday, November 29, 2018, 10:00 a.m. Based on E.B. White’s loving story of the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a little gray spider named Charlotte, this treasured tale, featuring mad-cap and endearing farm animals, explores bravery, selfless love, and the true meaning of friendship. Grades K-5
FRE E DOM TRAIN
Monday, January 28, 2019, 10:00 a.m. Freedom Train tells the thrilling story of Harriet Tubman in a fascinating series of highly theatrical scenes that use dance, dialogue, and music of the period. Songs include “Follow the Drinking Gourd,” “Steal Away,” “Wade in the Water,” “Good News, the Chariot’s A-comin’,” and many others still sung today. Freedom Train is the story of self-sacrifice, dedication and survival, laced with warmth and a sense of humor that celebrates the human spirit – a universal story for all. Grades 3–9
L AURA INGALL S WILDER Tuesday, March 12, 2019, 10:00 a.m.
Laura Ingalls Wilder and her family travel across America in search of a place they can call home. Facing obstacles such as scarlet fever and eviction from their land, their pioneering spirit and family bonds are tested but never broken. This uplifting story of one of America’s most beloved authors comes to life. Grades 2-6
AESOP’S FABLES
Thursday, May 16, 2019, 10:00 a.m. Aesop’s delightful fables of wit and wisdom, including The Stag at the Pool, The Tortoise and the Hare, The Fox and the Grapes, The Wind and the Sun, and The Lion and the Mouse come to life through the large and colorful puppets of nationally acclaimed puppeteer and storyteller, Jim West. Grades K–4
ARTS E DUCATION PROUD SPONSORS A Friend of the Luzerne Foundation, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., Community Bank N.A., First National Community Bank, F.M. Kirby Foundation, Highmark, Marquis George MacDonald Foundation, M&T Bank, The Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, The P&G Fund, PNC Bank, Wasserott Foundation, Weis Market, The Wells Fargo Foundation.
FRECKLEFACE
STRAWBERRY THE MUSICAL A SENSORY- FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE Presented in pa r tnership bet ween F. M . Ki rby Center and King’s College Theat re Depa r tment JULY 2 0 AT 10:0 0 A . M . JULY 21 AT 11:0 0 A . M . & 3:0 0 P. M . JULY 22 AT 2:0 0 P. M . FREE to the public. Call 570-826-1100 to make reservations.
Music and Lyrics by Gary Kupper Book by Gary Kupper & Rose Caiola Based on the Books Written by Julianne Moore And Illustrated by LeUyen Pham Conceived for the Stage by Rose Caiola Freckleface Strawberry The Musical, based on the beloved New York Times best-selling book by celebrated actress, Julianne Moore, is a fun and touching family musical. Specifically created to perform for young audiences, families can step inside of the book’s pages with Freckleface and friends as they learn to “love the skin they’re in.” Freckleface Strawberry will do anything to get rid of her freckles – from scrubbing them with soap to caking on makeup... and even wearing a ski mask to school! Will her schoolmates realize that it’s her under the mask? Will Freckleface be brave enough to finally face her complexion in the mirror? With the help of her loveable schoolmates, including an amazingly talented ballerina, a cutie jock, a charming ditz and a totally kooky teacher, Freckleface learns that everyone is different – and that’s what makes everyone special.
FRECKLEFACE STRAWBERRY THE MUSICAL is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com
A SENSORY-FRIE NDLY PERFORMANCE The F.M. Kirby Center will present its first sensory-friendly performance this summer. Sensory-friendly theatre exists in order to make theatrical experiences accessible to audience members who may be sensitive to sensory stimuli, and their families. Children or adults diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder or other sensory issues often cannot experience theatre in what would be considered a traditional environment. In order to create sensory-friendly theatre, each show is performed in a friendly, supportive environment for families and friends with children or adults who are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder or other sensitivity issues. Slight adjustments to the production are made, including reduction of any jarring sounds or strobe and spotlights that shine into the audience. House lights are faintly dimmed but remain on. Quiet and activity areas staffed with volunteers and specialists are available in the lobby areas for those who need to leave their seats during the performance. Additional supports, such as social narratives and character guides are available in advance of the performance. Through accessibility is someone’s humanity, and through sensory-friendly theatre we can help unlock the arts for everyone.
FIND US ON SOCIAL ME DIA Stay up to date with all the most recent Kirby Center information! • www.facebook.com/FmKirbyCenter • www.twitter.com/FMKirbyCenter • www.youtube.com/FMKirbyVision
THE NEW
PARLOR
THE KIRBY CENTER IS PROUD TO INTRODUCE...
THE MOHEGAN SUN POCONO PARLOR! Located on the lower level of the theater, this bar and lounge features exclusive access and drink specials for Kirby Center Gold, Platinum and Diamond Members, as well as Mohegan Sun Pocono Momentum cardholders.
CHECK OUT KIRBYCENTER.ORG FOR UPCOMING SHOWS!
8 0 YEARS OF FILM
BEFORE THE KIRBY WAS THE KIRBY
TRUE GRIT (G)
Friday, June 22, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. This original 1960’s version of True Grit stars John Wayne in his Academy Award® winning performance as Rooster Cogburn, a fearless one-eyed U.S. marshal who never knew a dry day in his life. Glen Campbell plays a Texas Ranger thirsty for bounty money. And Kim Darby is a teenage girl out to avenge her father’s death. She doesn’t care what they are, or who they are, as long as they have “true grit.” (“You’ve not heard the last of Mattie Ross. You may well hear from my lawyer, Daggett.”) 1969, 129 min
THE SOUND OF MUSIC (G) Friday, July 20, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
“The hills are alive” with the sound of the most popular musical of all time. Julie Andrews stars as the governess to the seven rambunctious children of Captain von Trapp (Christopher Plummer). The majestic Austrian Alps are matched by the unforgettable Rodgers and Hammerstein score in this winner of 5 Academy Awards®, including Best Picture. You’ll be inspired to “climb every mountain,” while simply remembering your “favorite things.” (“Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens...”) 1965, 174 min
ALE X ANDE R’S R AGTI ME BAND (NR)
Friday, August 24, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. The first movie to play at Wilkes-Barre’s Comerford Theatre when it opened its doors in August 1938. Tyrone Power, Alice Faye, and Don Ameche are caught in a love triangle in this musical based on a fictionalized account of the history of jazz. Chock-full of wonderful songs by famed composer Irving Berlin, including such standards as “Easter Parade,” “Blue Skies,” “A Pretty Girl is Like a Melody,” and, of course, the title song. (“Come on and hear…come on and hear… Alexander’s ragtime band!”)1938, 106 min
GONE WITH THE WIND (G) Friday, September 21, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
An epic love story set against the backdrop of the Civil War, based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Margaret Mitchell. Winner of 10 Academy Awards® including Best Picture and Best Supporting Actress (Hattie McDaniel). Vivien Leigh won Best Actress for her portrayal of Scarlett O’Hara, who goes from carefree southern belle (“Fiddle-dee-dee!”) to indomitable heroine (“Tomorrow…is another day!”). Clark Gable plays Rhett Butler, the charming rogue who pursues her. (“Frankly, my dear…”). 1939, 238 min
MURDER BY DEATH (PG) Friday, October 26, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Neil Simon wrote the screenplay for this classic comedy-mystery. An eccentric millionaire (Truman Capote) invites the world’s greatest living detectives to a dinner party where murder is on the menu. The all-star cast includes David Niven and Maggie Smith as Dick and Dora Charleston, Elsa Lanchester as Jessica Marbles, Peter Sellers as Sidney Wang, Peter Falk as Sam Diamond, and James Coco as Milo Perrier. Alex Guinness is hilarious as the blind butler. (“Ten people for dinner and I’m serving them hot nothing!”). 1976, 94 min
THE WIZ ARD OF OZ (PG)
Friday, November 30, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Follow the yellow brick road with Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion in this classic musical from Hollywood’s Golden Age. Based on the children’s book by L. Frank Baum, this groundbreaking Technicolor production won Oscars® for Best Original Score and Best Original Song (Over the Rainbow). With Judy Garland in her star-making role and Margaret Hamilton as the Wicked Witch of the West. (“I’ll get you, my pretty…and your little dog too!”). 1939, 102 min
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (PG) Friday, December 21, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Director Frank Capra’s classic is a cherished Christmas tradition for countless families. Building & loan owner George Bailey (James Stewart) is all that stands between the good people of Bedford Falls and the wicked miser Mr. Potter (Lionel Barrymore). When misfortune strikes on Christmas Eve, George realizes, with the help of an angel named Clarence, (Henry Travers) that he truly has a “wonderful life.” (“Teacher says, every time a bell rings an angel gets his wings.”). 1946, 130 min
W. CURTIS MONTZ FILM SERIES
Arts enthusiast, W. CURTIS MONTZ lived a full life in his 101 years. His time at the F.M. Kirby Center was spent as executive director, programmer, arts education planner, and ardent film series supporter, both in his work and attendance. We are honored year after year to remember his humor, work ethic, friendship, love of chocolate, and passion for the arts.
W. CURTIS MONTZ FILM SERIES
RBG (PG)
Wednesday, August 8, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. At the age of 84. U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has developed a breathtaking legal legacy while becoming an unexpected pop culture icon. But without a definitive Ginsburg biography, the unique personal journey of this diminutive, quiet warrior’s rise to the nation’s highest court has been largely unknown, even to some of her biggest fans – until now. 2018, 97 min
SORRY TO BOTHER YOU (NR) Wednesday, August 15, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
In a dystopian not-too-distant future, telemarketer Cassius Green (Lakeith Stanfield) discovers a magical key to professional success and is propelled into a macabre universe. Suddenly he’s rising up the ranks to the elite team of his company, which sells heinous products and services. The upswing in Cassius’s career raises serious red flags with his brilliant girlfriend, Detroit (Tessa Thompson. But the unimaginable hits the fan when Cassius meets the company’s obnoxious, and relentlessly optimistic CEO, Steve Lift (Armie Hammer). 2018, 112 min
UNDER THE SILVER LAKE (R)
Wednesday, August 22, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Sam (Andrew Garfield) is a disenchanted 33-year-old who discovers a mysterious woman, Sarah (Riley Keough), frolicking in his apartment’s swimming pool. When she vanishes, Sam embarks on a surreal quest across Los Angeles to decode the secret behind her disappearance, leading him into the murkiest depths of mystery, scandal, and conspiracy in the City of Angels. 2018, 139 min
THE INSULT (R)
Wednesday, August 29, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. In today’s Beirut, a civilian dispute blown out of proportion finds Tony (Adel Karam), a Lebanese Christian, and Yasser (Kamel El Basha), a Palestinian refugee, facing off in court. As the media circus surrounding the case threatens a social explosion in divided Lebanon, Tony and Yasser reconsider their values and beliefs as revelations of trauma complicate their understanding of one another. 2017, 112 min
THE CHINA HUSTLE (R)
Wednesday, September 5, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Investors on the fringes of the financial world feverishly seek new alternatives for high-return investments in the global markets, and have found a gold mine in China. But when one investor discovers a massive web of fraud, everything else is called into question. 2017, 82 min
THE SQUARE (R)
Wednesday, September 12, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, an artist’s installation invites passersby to altruism, meanwhile, the artist hunts down thieves who stole his cell phone ad wallet. 2017, 151 min
IN THE FADE (R)
Wednesday, September 19, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Out of nowhere, Katja’s (Diane Kruger) life falls apart when her husband and son are killed in a bomb attack in this German film. The mind numbing search for the perpetrators and reasons behind the senseless killing complicate Katja’s painful mourning, opening wounds and doubts. The eventual trial against the two suspects: a young couple from the neo-Nazi scene pushes Katja to the edge, but there’s simply no alternative for her: she wants justice. 2017, 106 min
BPM (BEATS PER MINUTE) (PG-13) Wednesday, September 26, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Set in 1990s France, members of international advocacy group ACT UP demand action from the government and pharmaceutical companies to combat the AIDS epidemic. 2017, 143 min
F IL M S TBA FOR OC TOBE R 3, OC TOBE R 10, AND OC TOBE R 2 4
SPL AT TERDAY III – OC TOBER 2 0 5:0 0 P. M . COSTUME PAR ADE AND DI SNE Y’S ZOMB I ES (2 018), T V- G, 94 MIN 8:0 0 P. M . SCREAM (1996), R, 111 MIN 12:0 0 MIDNIGHT ROCK Y HORROR PICTURE SHOW (1975), R, 10 0 MIN
KIRBY BOX OFFICE BUILD YOUR OWN SUBSCRIPTION SERIES Buy three or more shows: Receive 15% off June 5, 2018- July 31, 2018 Receive 10% off August 1, 2018 – June 30, 2019
GROUP SALES Groups of 20 or more receive 10% off
STUDE NT RUSH Receive 15% off individual seats in advance and 50% off on day of show – with valid ID
SE NIOR CITIZE NS (65 AND OLDER), STUDE NTS AND MILITARY Receive 15% discount - with valid ID
GIF T CERTIFICATES Fun shows make great gifts!
SPECIAL SERVICES Please call 570.826.1100 in advance with special needs for seating.
3 -INSTALL ME NT PAYME NT PL AN The Kirby Center now has a 3-installment payment plan option with which you pay 1/3 of your total subscription price now and two other 1/3 payments at a later date. Call the Kirby Center Box Office for more information. Must sign up by June 30, 2018. • • • • • •
All ticket sales are final. No refund or exchanges. Discounts only valid on Kirby-presented shows. Discounts subject to availability, and restrictions do apply. Discounts cannot be combined with other offers. Discounts must be purchased through the Kirby Center Box Office and I.D. presented for pick up. Tickets may be subject to applicable facility and convenience fees.
BOX OFFICE SALES: MONDAY– FRIDAY 10 A . M . – 5 P. M . 71 Public Square, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
Kirby Center Phone Sales 570.826.1100 Online Sales kirbycenter.org Ticketmaster 800.745.3000 Members are first to know and first to buy!
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