2015 - 2016 Season Guide for The Hanover Theatre by TheHanoverTheatre

Welcome! We are proud to unveil our 2015-2016 line-up that includes over 50 world-class events and 75 performances rolled into one award-winning season. From our Tony Award-winning Broadway Series to concerts and comedy shows featuring international stars, family favorites, holiday traditions and so much more…our programming oﬀers something for everyone! This December we will oﬀer our first autism-friendly performance of A Christmas Carol. (See page 12 for more information.) Programs like this are made possible in part through the generosity of our members, who support our mission to foster a love and appreciation for the performing arts in audiences of today and tomorrow. If you’re not a member yet, join today at the $75 level or above. Renew or join before September 30 for your chance to win a $1000 gift certificate for tickets at the theatre. In addition to early access and discounts to most shows, our members receive a variety of benefits and ways to engage with the cultural community. In particular, The Hanover Theatre is thrilled to present the Access Hanover Lyceum Series as well as Founders’ and Historic Tours as free events to our members, and at a nominal fee to nonmembers: · Founders’ Tours on 9/3, 10/22 and 11/19 · Historic & Architectural Tours on 9/9, 10/14 and 11/4 · Remembering Saturday Matinees & Worcester Movie Palaces presented in partnership with Preservation Worcester on 9/30 · A History of Vaudeville on 12/2 · Building a Sustainable Worcester presented in partnership with Central Mass Grown and generously sponsored by National Grid on 3/9/16 We are also excited to introduce a way for you to protect your investment by participating in Booking Protect, a new ticket insurance option. Booking Protect is only available at the time of purchase and allows you to receive a full refund of the purchase price should you or anyone in your party be unable to attend due to injury, illness, adverse weather conditions and more. This guide contains all performances confirmed as of our print date, but new shows are added throughout the year. Visit TheHanoverTheatre.org to subscribe to our weekly e-mail newsletter for new show announcements and exciting developments about our education programs!

Subscribe or join as a Patron or higher member level to attend our season kick-oﬀ on Friday, September 25.

With appreciation,

Troy Siebels President & CEO

Photo: A Christmas Carol: Scott Erb

Order tickets online at TheHanoverTheatre.org or call the box oﬃce at 877.571.SHOW (7469).

The Producers October 23-25, 2015 Bialystock and Bloom! Those names should strike terror and hysteria in anyone familiar with Mel Brooks’ classic cult comedy film. Now as a big Broadway musical, The Producers once again sets the standard for modern, outrageous, in-your-face humor. It is a truly “boﬀo” hit, winning a record twelve Tony Awards and wowing capacity crowds night after night in Mel Brooks’ laugh-out-loud spectacle.

Broadway’s Best

Generously sponsored by

Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas The Musical November 6-8, 2015 Enjoy the record-setting Broadway holiday sensation which features the hit songs “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas” from the original animated television special. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” decides to steal Christmas away from the holiday-loving Whos. Magnificent sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original illustrations help transport audiences to the whimsical world of Whoville and helps remind us of the true meaning of the holiday season.

Ragtime January 29-31, 2016 At the dawn of a new century, everything is changing . . . and anything is possible. The stories of an upper-class wife, a determined Jewish immigrant and a daring young Harlem musician unfold. Ragtime is set in turn-of-the-century New York, where all three characters are united by their desire and belief in a brighter tomorrow. Their compelling stories are set to the theatre’s richest and most glorious score by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens. Winning Tony Awards for Best Book and Best Musical Score, this 13-time Tony Award nominated musical is a timeless celebration of life . . . what it could and should be! Generously sponsored by

Conveniently located at 2 Southbridge Street in downtown Worcester with easy parking across the street!

42nd Street February 19-21, 2016 Based on a novel by Bradford Ropes and Busby Berkeley’s 1933 movie, the story of a starry-eyed young dancer named Peggy Sawyer who leaves her Allentown home and comes to New York to audition for the new Broadway musical Pretty Lady. When the star breaks her ankle, Peggy takes over and becomes a star.

Annie March 11-13, 2016 Leapin’ Lizards! The world’s best-loved musical returns in time-honored form. Directed by original lyricist and director Martin Charnin and choreographed by Liza Gennaro, this production of Annie is a brand new incarnation of the iconic original. Featuring book and score by Tony Award® winners Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, Annie includes such unforgettable songs as “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You,” plus the eternal anthem of optimism, “Tomorrow.” Generously sponsored by

Saturday Night Fever: The Musical May 6-8, 2016 The iconic story of Tony, the kid from Brooklyn, who wants to dance his way to a better life, is back! And back in an all-new production that shares Tony’s love for dancing in spectacular new ways. Fueled by vintage Bee Gees’ hits, this contemporary retelling of the classic story captures the energy, passion and life-changing moments that have thrilled movie audiences since 1977. Now, a new generation of dancers meets a new generation of playgoers to explore the soaring sounds and pulsating rhythms of this coming-of-age disco fantasy.

Dirty Dancing: The Classic Story On Stage June 7 -12, 2016 Come and enjoy this record-breaking live theatre sensation, exploding with heart-pounding music, passionate romance and sensational dancing. Featuring the hit songs, "Hungry Eyes," "Hey Baby," "Do You Love Me?" and the heart-stopping "(I've Had) The Time of My Life." You'll be sure to have the time of your life! Generously sponsored by

Photo: Annie: © Joan Marcus Photo: Dirty Dancing: Matthew Murphy

Order tickets online at TheHanoverTheatre.org or call the box oﬃce at 877.571.SHOW (7469).

Dance Shaping Sound November 14, 2015 Under the artistic direction of Travis Wall, and co-created with Nick Lazzarini, Teddy Forance and Kyle Robinson, Shaping Sound is an electrifying mashup of dance styles and musical genres brought fully to life on stage by a dynamic company of contemporary dancers. After rising to fame on “So You Think You Can Dance” and “Dancing With The Stars,” these dancers (some of the best talent on stage right now) starred in their own reality TV show, Oxygen Network’s "All the Right Moves." Audiences of all ages will experience the exhilarating collaboration of these visual musicians whose explosive choreography, dynamic rhythm, speed and physical strength give shape and form to sound. Shaping Sound is dance reimagined.

Stomp January 10, 2016 Stomp is explosive, inventive, provocative, witty, and utterly unique…an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered armfuls of awards and rave reviews and has appeared on numerous national television shows. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments…matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps…to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. Year after year, audiences worldwide keep coming back for more of this pulse-pounding electrifying show. As the Boston Globe says, “If you haven’t seen Stomp, go! If you have seen it, take someone and share the pleasure!” Stomp. See what all the noise is about. Generously sponsored by

Swan Lake performed by Moscow Festival Ballet April 15, 2016 Presented by Music Worcester. Established by principal dancers of the Bolshoi Ballet, the Moscow Festival Ballet has toured the world several times since its founding in 1989. Regularly visiting The Hanover Theatre, the company has recently presented their productions of Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella. Generously sponsored by

Conveniently located at 2 Southbridge Street in downtown Worcester with easy parking across the street!

P-Square September 19, 2015

Music

Africa's hottest performing duo bring their talents to the New England area for the first time. The international award-winning group, P-Square, is made up of two Nigerian identical twins Peter and Paul Okoye. The duo began back in 1997 and have since taken the world by storm.

The Greatest Hits on Earth: Live! September 26, 2015 What if you put the former singers and players of Kansas, Blue Oyster Cult, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Journey and the Storm on one stage for one night in Worcester? You’d have The Greatest Hits on Earth: Live®! One massive supergroup, one night and scores of huge hit songs assembled just for Worcester. Generously sponsored by

An Acoustic Evening with Lyle Lovett and John Hiatt! October 7, 2015 Grammy Award-winning singer, composer and actor, Lyle Lovett has broadened the definition of American music. Together with John Hiatt, who has 11 Grammy nominations and 24 albums to his name, this duo unite on stage for an unforgettable night of intimate, acoustic music.

The United States Air Force Band, Concert Band and Singing Sergeants October 18, 2015 The United States Air Force Concert Band is the premier symphonic wind ensemble of the United States Air Force. They perform a wide variety of music ranging from classical transcriptions and original works to solo features, light classics, popular favorites and patriotic selections. Together with the Singing Sergeants, they use music to bridge language and cultural diﬀerences while helping advance positive diplomatic relations through song.

An Evening with Gordon Lightfoot November 10, 2015 Join this legendary artist for an evening of well-known hits as well as some deep album cuts for the die-hard fans. Enjoy some of Lightfoot's own behind the scenes stories and personal anecdotes about his historic 50 year musical career.

Get The Led Out: The American Led Zeppelin November 21, 2015 From the bombastic and epic, to the folky and mystical, Get The Led Out have captured the essence of the recorded music of Led Zeppelin and brought it to the big concert stage. The Philadelphia-based group consists of six accomplished musicians intent on delivering Led Zeppelin's studio recordings with all the bells and whistles.

Order tickets online at TheHanoverTheatre.org or call the box oﬃce at 877.571.SHOW (7469).

An Evening with Jim Brickman February 11, 2016

Music

The Platinum Tour "Celebrating 20 Years" is an experience of emotion, intimacy, warmth and humor that’s fused together with hits like “Valentine,” “Rocket to the Moon,” “Love of My Life” and “If You Believe.” Brickman takes the audience on a musical journey with his romantic piano melodies and engaging wit, making this concert event the must see of the season!

The Music of ABBA: Arrival from Sweden February 25, 2016 This show has sold out arenas and venues all over the world since 1995 and is the absolute best and most authentic ABBA show there is. Hits like “Dancing Queen,” “Mamma Mia,” “Take A Chance,” “The Winner Takes It All,” and many more are delivered with such accuracy that it’s hard to believe that it’s not the real ABBA on stage.

WGBH presents A St. Patrick’s Day Celtic Sojourn with Brian O’Donovan March 17, 2016 This concert follows the format established for the still growing Christmas Celtic Sojourn concert series while introducing a wide range of new and familiar musicians to audiences eager to celebrate the holiday in true Irish style. Generously sponsored by

Dancing in the Streets April 1, 2016 Join the original and the best celebration of Motown’s greatest hits with the spectacular, critically acclaimed hit show direct from London’s West End. Come experience the energy and electricity of the motor city in a stunning production packed with hit after hit, all killer, and no filler!

Chick Corea & Béla Fleck April 12, 2016 Presented by Music Worcester, these two master songwriters, musicians, and band leaders meet in a historic duet of piano and banjo. The performance features material from their recent Grammy-winning album, The Enchantment, as Corea and Fleck bring together multiple genres, including jazz, bluegrass, rock, flamenco, and gospel. Generously sponsored by

Joe Bonamassa May 26, 2016 Joe Bonamassa, joined by an all-star ensemble of world-class musicians, performs an incredibly special evening of extraordinary music. Bonamassa promises to set the night ablaze with his guitar wizardry, playing a stripped down, all-acoustic show that truly allows his fans a glimpse into his soul and presents a thrilling and musically dangerous spectacle akin to walking a tightrope without a net.

Conveniently located at 2 Southbridge Street in downtown Worcester with easy parking across the street!

Dave Chappelle Live in Concert September 25, 2015

Comedy

Famous for his “Chappelle Show” on Comedy Central, Dave Chappelle makes his Worcester stand-up debut. This show contains mature content.

NBC’s Last Comic Standing October 28, 2015 The Emmy-nominated laugh-fest returns with an all new group of the world's funniest comics. See the top finalists perform as part of the Last Comic Standing Tour.

Capitol Steps present Mock the Vote November 19, 2015 See the Washington DC-based comedy troupe that began as a group of Senate staﬀers, as they present a show based on songs from their current album “Mock the Vote.” Their unique blend of musical and political comedy consists of tasteful lampooning guaranteed to leave both sides of the political spectrum laughing.

Sister’s Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi’s Gold December 3, 2015 It's "CSI: Bethlehem" in this holiday mystery extravaganza, as Sister takes on the mystery that has intrigued historians throughout the ages…whatever happened to the Magi's gold? Employing her own scientific tools, assisted by a local choir as well as a gaggle of audience members, Sister creates a living nativity unlike any you've ever seen.

Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood: Two Man Group April 2, 2016 Armed with nothing but their sharp wit, comedians Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood take to the live stage to create hilarious and original scenes in their two-man show. Known by TV audiences for their work on “Whose Line is it Anyway?,” Colin & Brad improvise new material every night from audience suggestions and participation. “Interactive” in every sense of the word, the audience goes on a comedic high-wire act… just like a live version of “Whose Line!” Get ready for a night of non-stop laughter for all ages! Generously sponsored by

Popovich Comedy Pet Theater April 9, 2016 The most beloved family show in the world, featuring an amazing cast of housecats, dogs, parrots… even geese and mice! Critics describe the show as a unique blend of physical comedy, world-champion juggling and the extraordinary talents of more than 30 performing pets.

Order tickets online at TheHanoverTheatre.org or call the box oﬃce at 877.571.SHOW (7469).

Cesar Millan Live! March 4, 2016 From his years of experience, Cesar will show that for a transformation to take place in a dog, the real transformation quite often needs to take place in their human companion first. You’ll be amazed and inspired by the simplicity with which Cesar’s Way can bring harmony and balance into your and your dog’s lives.

Pop Culture & Film

Buddy Valastro The Cake Boss: Bakin’ with the Boss Tour October 17, 2015 Join celebrity baker Buddy Valastro for an evening of cakes, stories, and fun. In this rare, live, interactive event, TLC's Cake Boss will share the stories behind his hit series and his colorful Italian family, and answer audience questions. Learn from his live demonstration of the techniques that have made him one of the most successful and renowned cake artists in the nation. Buddy has a big personality, and an even bigger heart! Bring the whole family for a night with the Cake Boss.

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde October 16, 2015 Enjoy the first great American horror film, featuring John Barrymore and accompanied by Clark Wilson on the Mighty Wurlitzer. Blending historic charm with grim naturalism, this silent film version is one of the more faithful of the many screen adaptations of Stevenson's story that recounts a visionary scientist's ill-fated attempts to unleash the human mysteries that dwell beneath the shell of the civilized self.

Warren Miller Entertainment's Chasing Shadows November 20, 2015 Explore what it means to be inspired, and what it is about exotic locations and snow-covered summits that keep us searching for more. As skiers and snowboarders we chase a feeling, a memory, a storm, a turn. We’ve been chasing it our whole lives and we’ll keep chasing it a lifetime more.

Girl Shy May 1, 2016 Featuring Harold Lloyd and accompanied by Clark Wilson on the Mighty Wurlitzer, this 1924 romantic comedy is sure to delight silent film enthusiasts of all ages. A shy young man, who is completely incapable of talking to women, decides to write a book that details how to find a girlfriend for other bachelors. Photo: Cesar Millan: Allan Weissman Photo: Warren Miller: © Sverre Hjornevik

Conveniently located at 2 Southbridge Street in downtown Worcester with easy parking across the street!

The Wiggles Rock & Roll Preschool Tour September 22, 2015 Featuring songs from their new Rock n’ Roll Preschool CD and DVD, the Wiggles will get you all shook up, mixing some of their new hits with beloved Wiggles classics. The fab four of under-fives will of course be joined by Dorothy the Dinosaur, Captain Feathersword, Wags the Dog and Henry the Octopus!

Family Favorites

Disney Live! Three Classic Fairy Tales November 13, 2015 Step into a world of wonder where dreams come true in Disney Live! presents Three Classic Fairy Tales Presented by Stonyfield YoKids Organic Yogurt. Join Mickey and Minnie as they bring the timeless fairy tale adventures of Cinderella, Beauty and The Beast, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to life in a live theatrical experience that is pure magic. Generously sponsored by

Peppa Pig Live! Peppa's Big Splash December 8, 2015 More fun than a muddy puddle! PEPPA PIG, star of the top-rated TV series airing daily on Nick Jr., is hitting the road for her first-ever U.S. theatrical tour, Peppa Pig’s Big Splash!

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Live! February 13, 2016 The legacy of the beloved “Mister Rogers” lives on with the hit television series, “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” from The Fred Rogers Company and airing daily on PBS KIDS. Donning his iconic red sweater, Daniel takes the audience on an interactive musical adventure as he and his friends explore the vibrant world of their much-loved Neighborhood of Make-Believe, sharing stories of friendship, helping others, and celebrating new experiences.

Disney in Concert: Magical Music from the Movies February 27, 2016 In partnership with Music Worcester, come be enchanted by Disney in Concert Magical Music from the Movies with the Disney Festival Orchestra, projected video clips from iconic Disney films, and four leading vocalists.

Assumption College Theatre Department presents Pirates of Penzance April 22-24, 2016 Thirty-five years ago, Gilbert and Sullivan’s Pirates of Penzance sailed onto Broadway with a rollicking update of the century-old operetta. In April, students from Assumption College return to The Hanover Theatre for their eighth production at Worcester’s theatrical jewel.

Order tickets online at TheHanoverTheatre.org or call the box oﬃce at 877.571.SHOW (7469).

The Nutcracker November 27 - 29, 2015 Now in its eighth season, jump start the holiday season with The Nutcracker, presented by Ballet Arts Worcester and the Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra. Share the magic and beauty of this beloved Worcester production with your favorite loved ones!

Holiday Traditions

Presenting sponsor

Production sponsor

Boston Pops Holiday Concert December 4, 2015 Join the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra, with conductor Keith Lockhart, for their sparkling and beloved Holiday Pops concert. Capturing the magic of the Christmas season and the winter charms of New England, the Boston Pops will perform their signature Sleigh Ride, as well as other holiday classics, and new arrangements of seasonal favorites. The magnificence of hearing these pieces performed by America’s orchestra is not to be missed! Generously sponsored by

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas December 6, 2015 Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for the past 30 years! Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features the beloved Christmas music of Mannheim Steamroller along with dazzling multimedia eﬀects performed in an intimate setting. Experience the magic as the spirit of the season comes alive with the signature sound of Mannheim Steamroller. Their holiday CDs have become synonymous with Christmas and continue to occupy top spots on Billboards’s Seasonal Charts every year just for Worcester!

WGBH presents A Christmas Celtic Sojourn with Brian O’Donovan December 14, 2015 With legends of music, song, and dance from the Celtic world and beyond poised to take the stage together, this year’s show promises to be one of the most dynamic.

Conveniently located at 2 Southbridge Street in downtown Worcester with easy parking across the street!

Special Performances

A Christmas Carol December 18-27, 2015 This perennial favorite, with accompaniment on the Mighty Wurlitzer pipe organ, is The Hanover Theatre's biggest and most popular show! The annual production is refined and revised each year to keep the show young and fresh, but it still retains its core attributes, which set it apart from other productions, including extravagant scenery, special eﬀects, spectacular flying stunts, and gorgeous costuming. Kids and students are always half-price, ensuring that the whole family can enjoy a holiday experience celebrating the true spirit of the season. 12/20 Enhanced audio descriptive services provided by Audio Journal. 12/22 Autism-friendly performance presented in partnership wtih the New England Chapter of Autism Speaks, Theatre Development Fund, HMEA’s Autism Resource Central, and VSA Massachusetts. 12/23 Performance and VIP reception to benefit Worcester Community Action Council. 12/26 Q&A with the cast following the matinee. ASL interpretation provided for the evening performance.

See New England’s largest, most spectacular production!

Generously sponsored by

Inspiration Deepak Chopra presents Super Genes: The Future of Wellbeing November 11, 2015 Join Deepak Chopra as he shares a bold new understanding of our genes and how simple changes in lifestyle can boost genetic activity. The leap into "radical well-being" is a promise waiting to be fulfilled. Ticket buyers also receive a copy of his new book, Super Genes, and have the opportunity to have the book signed after the presentation. Franklin Square Society members are invited to a special reception to honor their support of the theatre and its mission as well as recognize donors who contributed to our Securing the Future capital campaign.

Photo: A Christmas Carol: Scott Erb

Order tickets online at TheHanoverTheatre.org or call the box oﬃce at 877.571.SHOW (7469).