Behind the Scenes Magazine | Spring/Summer 2023

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Behind the Scenes

Dear Reader,

MAGAZINE

Spring/Summer 2023

It’s hard to believe that 15 years have passed since we rolled out the red carpet and Bernadette Peters performed at our Grand Opening on March 14, 2008. I remember the excitement and anticipation of our opening season. Happily, enthusiasm and support for our shows and programming has only gotten stronger with each year.

We started as a theatre with a main stage and 2,300 seats. We expanded to include the building next door and opened a conservatory for the performing arts, which currently offers over 100 different classes. Despite the worldwide pandemic, our education team provided valuable programs and opportunities to keep our students and community engaged. We opened the BrickBox Theater at the Jean McDonough Art Center in Worcester’s new Theatre District and launched a repertory company. Now we’re looking forward to providing free public programming when the Francis R. Carroll Plaza is completed directly in front of our building!

I am filled with gratitude as well as continued excitement when I think of how much we’ve accomplished and the bright future ahead. None of these achievements would be possible without the vision, hard work, dedication, support and generosity of so many people.

As you flip through the following pages, look for the star icon that indicates enhanced content to enjoy additional information, interviews, videos and more online. Be sure to check in and follow us on your favorite social platform to hear directly from our team and visiting artists. Consider joining our list to receive new show announcements. Support the transformative power of the performing arts and celebrate our 15th anniversary season with us throughout the year.

See you at the theatre!

Lisa K. Condit, Vice President of Communications

Our Mission

To ignite and nurture a passion for the performing arts in audiences and artists of today and tomorrow.

Our Vision

To be a dynamic downtown destination where all people can experience the transformative power of the performing arts.

Editor: Lisa K. Condit

Assistant Editor: Lillian Irwin

Project Manager: Monica Wagner Elefterion

Designer: Ashleigh Prince

Writers: Sarah Garofalo, Sarah Hallowell

Contributors: Janine Diliberto, Jackie Dillman, Armando Estevez, Beth LoConto, Sarahbeth Persiani, Linda Rosenlund, Veronica Villacis

Distribution: Sarah Garofalo, Amy Osborn, Sarahbeth Persiani, Abby Rickert

Plan now to advertise: Contact Diane Pieciak, sales director, at 508.930.2424 or diane@thehanovertheatre.org.

Cover images: Faith Jones in the North American Tour of Jesus Christ

Superstar © Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade. Pretty Woman: The Musical Hamburg Production © Morris-Mac-Matzen. Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood Scared Scriptless Tour. THTC Youth Acting Company’s ‘22 cast of Godspell © UnityMike Photography.

Land Acknowledgement

We acknowledge the traditional, ancestral, unceded territory of the Nipmuc Nation on which we are working and currently performing in Worcester, MA. We recognize and respect Indigenous Peoples as traditional stewards of this land and the enduring relationship that exists between Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories. This acknowledgement is essential to human rights work across the world. It is essential to our mission to honor stories that explore the human experience. Find more information at native-land.ca/.

Join Our Team

Work at one of Pollstar’s top theatres in the world! The Hanover Theatre has exciting career, volunteer and internship opportunities available at TheHanoverTheatre.org/careers.

Please note the following abbreviations:

The Hanover Theatre (THT)

The Hanover Theatre Conservatory (THTC)

The Hanover Theatre Repertory (THT Rep)

Toast to 15 Years of Magic

Celebrate 15 Years of Broadway, Music and More!

Thank you to our founders, staff, volunteers, board members, donors, Broadway subscribers, conservatory students and families, patrons and community partners for helping to get us to this important milestone. You are an important part of our success!

In partnership with others, we remain dedicated to helping transform the Theatre District from a “place” into a vibrant cultural destination. With a dynamic slate of cultural offerings, entertainment in multiple locations, exceptional training for the performing arts plus programming that is free and open to the public, we bring vibrancy and energy to downtown and value to visitors as well as those who live and/or work in the city.

Cheers to 15 years of amazing concerts, moving performances, Broadway blockbusters and our community coming together. We hope that you will join us to see a show, take a class or support the performing arts throughout the next year!

Click to read more enhanced content about our 15th Anniversary.

We are excited that the Francis R. Carroll Plaza, with the outdoor Bank of America Stage on our doorstep, will allow us to offer even more opportunities for free programming to our community.

-Troy Siebels, President & CEO

15th Anniversary Plaza Party

Saturday, September 9 • 6:30 pm

Join us on Francis R. Carroll Plaza for the plaza party and season kick-off, FREE and open to the public. This event will feature live music by South Street Band.

On a Wing and a Prayer: Achieving the Impossible Dream

Saturday, September 9 • 5:30 pm

FREE & Open to the Public

Don’t miss the world premiere at THT! Featuring stories from the theatre’s founding team and more, discover the story of a community coming together to transform a closed movie theater into The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts. Filmed and produced by John Stimpson.

Live Music Food Trucks

15 th Anniversary Plaza Party

Enjoy and Share the Ultimate Theatre Experience

The All Access Club is your season pass to world class entertainment, personalized ticketing service, premium seating for every show, complimentary parking, a private entrance and beverages in the historic Franklin Square Salon. Join the All Access Club and give your colleagues, customers and clients a theatrical experience they’re sure to remember!

Contact Diane Pieciak, sales director, at 508.930.2424 or diane@thehanovertheatre.org for more information.

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It’s amazing to see how All Access Club members share their tickets with their employees and clients to not only show their appreciation, but so they too can enjoy the magic of theatre. Their support is selfless and generous. For that, we are truly grateful.

“

-Diane Pieciak, Sales Director

Proud to support Performing Arts

Come to the Place Where We All Belong

The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory remains committed to the continual pursuit of embracing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) by striving to achieve an internal team that represents our community and being a welcoming and inviting destination for all.

Our organization embraces change by:

• Reviewing our internal policies and procedures through a DEIB lens

• Incorporating inclusive practices into our hiring process

• Ongoing bias and anti-racism training for board and staff

• Amending the by-laws to make DEIB a permanent standing board committee

We strive to remove existing barriers to participation in the performing arts through:

• Scholarship support for conservatory classes and programs

• ASL interpretation and audio descriptive services

• Sensory-friendly performances

• Complimentary tickets for regional nonprofit organizations

• THT Rep’s tiered ticketing structure

• Participation in the Card to Culture program

• Offering translations on our website

We celebrate diversity by:

• Supporting and partnering with community businesses

• Partnering with DEIB/Support Counselors for in-house productions

• Presenting a diversity of performers and stories on our stages

We acknowledge that our work to embrace diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging at THT is in no way complete. We celebrate how far we have come over the past 15 years and look forward to all the ways we will continue to grow over the next 15 years and beyond.

Save $10 on Most Tickets with Your Group

Did you know that most shows offer discounted tickets for groups of 10 or more? Planning a group event is easy and fun. Live theatre is always better when shared!

Groups get these great benefits:

• Book early before shows go on sale to the public, ensuring great seats at low prices

• Defer payment until 30 days before the show.

• Flexibility to add or remove tickets up until the payment deadline.

• Save an average of $10 off single ticket prices.

• Take advantage of our new GroupTools platform, saving the hassle of collecting money as your group attendees pay for their tickets directly online.

• Enjoy other exclusive offers and promotions!

Whether you have a group of 10 or 250, you receive all the savings, benefits and personalized service that come with booking a group. To book a group call Amy Osborn, group sales and promotions manager, at 508.471.1689 or email amy@thehanovertheatre.org.

Groups Get Great Deals

“It’s absolutely amazing working with The Hanover Theatre. Everyone is thrilled when we offer trips to this theatre, and they know that it will be top-notch. They really know what customer service is all about!” -Maria, First Choice Tours, Inc.

As a nonprofit organization, THT relies on volunteers for many important positions such as greeters, ticket takers, ushers, gardeners and more. Volunteers are the brightest stars and THT would not be what it is today without their support.

THT is proud to have a dedicated force of over 250 volunteers who play a vital role in the theatre’s success. Volunteer to support the arts!

Visit TheHanoverTheatre.org/volunteer and find out more about volunteering for the 2023-2024 season.

Bank where you matter.

At Central One, we know that your goals are unique, and the way you bank should fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re buying your first home, shopping for a new car, accommodating your growing family or business, or just managing your day-to-day finances –we’re here for you each step of the way.

Central

• A selection of free checking accounts with no minimum balance requirements

• High rate Premium Certificates

• Balance transfer promotion now through April 30th with a fixed 6.99% APR* with no annual fee or balance transfer fee

• First time credit card, auto loan, and home purchasing programs

• Same low auto loan rates for new, used, or refinanced vehicles. Plus, use our complimentary Auto Advisor car buying service to help you find the perfect car at your ideal price

Ready to get started? Contact us today!

(L to R) Volunteers Patti Cummings, David Brough, Barbara Roach Kyes and Rosie Turner enjoying the national Broadway tour of Hadestown at THT in March 2023. Photo by Beth LoConto.

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“Volunteering at THT is such a rewarding experience. From helping patrons have a great time and making new friends to having a blast at events planned by the social committee… I love it all!

-Beth L.

Tips & Tricks for Spotting Scalpers

Planning visits to the theatre with friends or family is always exciting, but scalpers and resellers can squash your enthusiasm with price markups if you’re not careful. We work hard to ensure all visitors have a great experience from start to finish, and how you get your tickets plays a major role in that. Check out our top 5 tips to make sure you’re getting the best seats at the best price, directly from THT.

Start with the right website.

1 2 3 4 5

When browsing for tickets to an event, always start with the venue’s official website. If you Google “Broadway tickets Worcester MA,” THT is not necessarily the first result. Examine the web address listed with the Google Ads to ensure you are headed to the right website. Scalper or ticket broker websites almost never let you select specific seats and will sometimes have a disclaimer that the seller does not own the tickets yet. Always be sure you are on either TheHanoverTheatre.org or tickets.TheHanoverTheatre.org. You will know you are in the right spot when you see our logo in the top left corner and our nonprofit statement in the footer.

Be price aware.

We always list ticket prices or price ranges on event pages. While tickets closer to the stage or on an aisle can be more expensive than others, Broadway at THT always starts at $39 in the orchestra with topdollar tickets up to $109. Scalpers have been known to resell these same seats for up to $700 a piece! Use your best judgement: if the ticket price seems ridiculously high, it probably is.

Closely inspect your tickets.

When you buy a ticket from THT, you can choose to receive your tickets via email with the print at home/mobile delivery method. Scalpers typically alter these tickets by removing key information to avoid suspicion with unsuspecting consumers. THT’s tickets typically have your name, a 6-digit order number and the ticket price printed on them.

Ask for help.

Whatever sticky situation you may find yourself in with a reseller, THT’s customer service and sales staff will do their best to help you fix the problem. While we cannot refund money you paid to a reseller, we can supply you with any necessary information to cancel charges on your credit card and do our best to get you into affordable seats so you can still see the show.

Sign up for THT emails.

It is no secret that the best way to make sure you are in-the-know and receiving new show announcements, special offers and important show-related communications is to sign up for our email list! Visit TheHanoverTheatre.org to log into your account and update your communication preferences, or create an account today.

Disclaimer: Occasionally, THT is authorized to work directly with verified ticket sites, like Goldstar and TodayTix, to make tickets more accessible to a broader range of ticket buyers.

Experience the Thrill of Live Entertainment!

Calendar of Upcoming Events

May 4

Dance Theatre of Harlem

Sounds of Hazel: The Hazel Scott Ballet

Presented by Music Worcester

Tickets start at just $39

Dance Theatre of Harlem: Alexandra Hutchinson, Ingrid Silva and Daphne Lee © Rachel Neville

Enjoy Something For Everyone

April 23 Neil Berg’s The 60’s Peace, Love and Rock N’ Roll

April 26 Wurlitzer Organ Concert, FREE for subscribers, conservatory families, members & their guests

April 27-30 Jesus Christ Superstar sponsored by Bay State Savings Bank

April 29 Worcester Country Dance Festival at the BrickBox Theater

May 4 Music Worcester presents Dance Theatre of Harlem | Sounds of Hazel: The Hazel Scott Ballet

May 6 Ricky Duran: Space & Time Tour sponsored by Bay State Savings Bank

May 7 Champions of Magic: The Worldwide Wonders Tour

May 11 Historic & Architectural Tour, FREE for subscribers, conservatory families, members & their guests

May 12 Lewis Black: Off the Rails

May 12-14 THT Rep presents The Marvelous Party inspired by Noël Coward at the BrickBox Theater sponsored by The Hanover Insurance Group

May 14 Charlie Chaplin Silent Film Double Feature accompanied by Clark Wilson on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ

May 19 Madagascar The Musical sponsored by Reliant Medical Group

May 23

Historic & Architectural Tour, FREE for subscribers, conservatory families, members & their guests

May 30 Wurlitzer Organ Concert, FREE for subscribers, conservatory families, members & their guests

June 4 Celebrating Billy Joel: America’s Piano Man

June 9 Music Worcester presents Sam Bush

June 11 Film Screening & Expert Panel of BURNED: Protecting the Protectors

June 13 Historic & Architectural Tour, FREE for subscribers, conservatory families, members & their guests

June 13 Summer classes begin in the conservatory*

June 18 Christopher Cross & Justin Hayward

June 21 2023 Miss Massachusetts Competition*

July 25 Holidays in July Event*

July 28-29 THT Youth Summer Program presents Fiddler on the Roof

August 12 THT Pre-Teen Youth Summer Program presents Fiddler on the Roof Jr.

August 18-19 THT Youth Summer Program presents Fiddler on the Roof

August 25 Jazz at Sunset presented by 90.5 WICN Public Radio, Downtown Worcester Business Improvement District and The Hanover Theatre*

September 6 Fall classes begin in the conservatory*

September 9 FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! THT’s 15th Anniversary Plaza Party & Season Kick-off featuring live music by South Street Band

September 10 Open auditions for The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol

September 23 The Mark of Zorro Silent film accompanied by Clark Wilson on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ*

September 24 The Australian Pink Floyd Show: Dark Side 50 Tour

September 27 Engelbert Humperdinck*

September 28 The Sixties Show*

October 12 KANSAS: Another Fork in the Road 50th Anniversary Tour

October 14 Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood: Scared Scriptless sponsored by FLEXcon

October 21 Wild Kratts® LIVE 2.0: Activate Creature Power®!*

November 3 Get the Led Out*

November 4 Mania The ABBA Tribute

November 10-12 Pretty Woman: The Musical sponsored by Country Bank**

November 24-26 The Nutcracker sponsored by Berkshire Bank*

December 2 Boston Pops 2023 Holiday Tour sponsored by Chacharone Properties*

December 16-23 A Christmas Carol sponsored by Assumption University*

December 17 Relaxed Performance of A Christmas Carol sponsored by UMass Memorial Health and UMass Chan Medical School*

January 19 Stayin’ Alive: A Bee Gees Tribute

March 9 Music Worcester presents Natalie MacMaster*

May 3-5 To Kill a Mockingbird sponsored by Bay State Savings Bank**

Upcomingshows&events

Super Hits in Jesus Christ

How Jesus Christ Superstar Pays Tribute to the Original Concept Album

In honor of the Jesus Christ Superstar 50th Anniversary Tour now playing across North America, the show pays tribute to the musical’s original rock and roll roots. The musical, directed by Timothy Sheader, is unlike any other production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar. The production is heavily influenced by Superstar’s original Brown Album produced in 1970 that defined a generation.

“It blew me away,” said producer Stephen Gabriel when he first saw this version of Superstar originally staged by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. It went on to win the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival.

One of Webber’s most famous stories about writing the score in the late 1960s, is when he ran into a restaurant to jot down musical notes on a napkin so he wouldn’t forget the tune he crafted for the title song. That tune turned into a concert album, cocreated with Tim Rice who wrote the lyrics. The story is a retelling of how Jesus Christ spent the last week of his life as seen through the eyes of Judas. It was then transformed into the beloved 1971 rock opera stage musical fans love today.

When the original album was released, it topped the Billboard charts at number one rising above Carole King’s “Tapestry”, Janis Joplin’s “Pearl” and even “Led Zeppelin III.” In 1971, “Superstar” was crowned the Billboard Album of the Year. “That’s why I think it resonated so much because this album hit at the zeitgeist of rock and roll,” Gabriel explained of its popularity. “So that really puts it into context.”

For Gabriel, Superstar has always remained something special in his life after his dad gifted him the album at age nine. “I just wore it out,” he recalled of the era, noting he learned to play guitar from trying

to play all the songs. “When I got into theater much later in my life and had the opportunity to produce this show — it was really full circle. It means that much to me. It really does.”

His continued passion for Superstar fifty years later doesn’t go unnoticed in the latest stage version of the show that channels that raw rock and roll sound. “It’s much different than truly any other musical [adaptation],” he teased. “The really exciting thing about this production is how faithful it is to recreating the feel and the sound of the Brown Album. If you drop the [record] needle on that album, that’s what our show sounds like and visually represents.”

Pointing to the cutting-edge choreography, Gabriel described the dancing like a modern ballet. “The audience may not realize it, but it is danced from the first downbeat right to the end of the show.

[Choreographer] Drew McOnie has embodied the feel of the album into the physical movement of the actors. In ‘What’s the Buzz,’ the movement is a visual representation of the music. You can almost strip away everything else and you’d have a modern dance ballet, which is very interesting and unique. You don’t see any other versions of Superstar that does this.”

The 50th anniversary production aims to please the long-time theater fans of the musical, and as Gabriel points out, those who rocked out to the original album sending it to the top of the Billboard charts.

“To them in particular, they’re going to get the experience that they remember,” added Gabriel.

By Leigh Scheps

Click to read more enhanced content about Jesus Christ Superstar.

Brett Hennessey Jones and the company of the North American Tour of Jesus Christ Superstar. Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade

Charlie Chaplin • Silent Film Double Feature

accompanied by live music on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ

Sunday, May 14 at 2 pm

This double feature of Charlie Chaplin’s films,The Kid and The Immigrant, will be accompanied by Clark Wilson on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ. Winner of Theatre Organist of the Year Award in 1998, Clark Wilson has been an organist and conservator for the last 30 years. With a multitude of performances, in addition to having seven albums under his belt, Wilson’s magical sounds have led to yearly presentations at the Los Angeles Philharmonic Society at the Walt Disney Concert Hall organ.

Burned: Protecting the Protectors presented

by Ethereal

Sunday, June 11 at 6 pm

Films and Last Call Foundation

This special film screening and expert panel is about one person’s arduous quest for truth about cancer among firefighters. Come view the documentary “Burned: Protecting the Protectors,” directed by Elijah Yetter-Bowman and executive produced by Mark Ruffalo. After the screening, stick around to engage with our star-studded panel, including Congressman Jim McGovern, and be part of this historic movement. All proceeds to benefit Last Call Foundation honoring Firefighter Michael Kennedy.

The Mark of Zorro • Silent Film

accompanied by live music on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ

Saturday, September 23 at 6 pm

Watching a silent film with live music creates a unique experience that you wouldn’t get seeing a modern film at the movie theater. It is both visually and audially stunning, creating an immersive once-in-a-lifetime event for filmgoers.

and Guarantee Great Seats to a Season That Can’t Be Beat!

Subscribing makes it easy to share the thrill of live theatre. Guarantee great seats for yourself and secure the option to purchase additional tickets at the subscriber discount before tickets go on sale to members or the public. Plus, save 10% on most other shows throughout the season! Whether you are a casual theatregoer or a loyal subscriber, there is no better way to experience the magic of Broadway than with a subscription.

What is a Broadway subscription?

One subscription gets you one ticket to each of the six shows in the Broadway Series. Don’t miss out on the best seats at the best price! Six-show subscribers save up to $93 on regular individual ticket prices. Students save up to $233!

Why subscribe?

Subscribing to all six shows is the only way to ensure seats for next season’s popular shows and guarantee protection from dynamic price increases. With fewer performances, over 40% is already sold to loyal subscribers.

The earlier you subscribe, the better seats you’ll get! Enjoy all these benefits and more.

Pretty Woman: The Musical November 10-12, 2023

“

We have been having so much fun at the theatre. For a couple of shows we even purchased a seat next to ours in order to bring an additional guest. Our subscription package has worked out better than we ever imagined and has been fantastic!

- Terrence P., Broadway subscriber since ‘17

Shake, shake, shake!

(Show to be Announced May 15) January 2-7, 2024

Isn’t it loverly?

(Show to be Announced May 1) February 16-18, 2024

Show TBA

Show TBA

“

Pretty Woman: The Musical Hamburg Production © Morris-Mac-Matzen.

If You Enjoy Broadway, Then You’ll Love This! Six shows. Great savings. One total package.

After an incredible record-breaking run on Broadway, Audience Choice Award winner Pretty Woman: The Musical is coming to Worcester to kick off the 2023-2024 Broadway Series! Generously sponsored by Country Bank, experience this dazzling take on a love story for the ages. Are you ready to fall in love all over again?

Shake, shake, shake your way into the new year to the fun, hot music of the second show in the Broadway Series, generously sponsored by Cornerstone Bank. Travel to another dimension with this sizzling show to be announced May 15.

With love in the air, you’ll want to dance all night after the third show, generously sponsored by The Club at Rockland Trust. Get swept away by the sound, look and feel of this incredible show to be announced May 1. Isn’t it loverly?

Early April, you’ll fall head over feet for the fourth show, generously sponsored by UniBank. You’re never uninvited with this Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning new musical to be announced June 26.

The following week, take a Gander at the fifth show to be announced August 14, generously cosponsored by Worcester State University. This true story reminds you of the power of the human spirit and what we can accomplish when we come together.

All rise for To Kill a Mockingbird, the final and most anticipated show in the 2023-2024 Broadway Series, generously sponsored by Bay State Savings Bank. “60 Minutes” raves that Academy Award® winner Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize winning masterwork is “the most successful American play in Broadway history. It has not played to a single empty seat.”

Secure your seats and save on six smash hits sure to sell out!

Fun Fact: Two of the national tours coming to Worcester in the 2023-2024 Broadway Series are directed by Tony Award® winner Bartlett Sher, a College of the Holy Cross graduate!

Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird Original Tour Cast Melanie Moore (“Scout Finch”) and Jacqueline Williams (“Calpurnia”) © Julieta Cervantes.

Make Some Noise for This Rockin’ Lineup of Live Music!

Neil Berg’s The 60’s Peace, Love and Rock N’ Roll • April 23 • Tickets start at $45

Hear the stories of what actually took place at Woodstock while enjoying the legendary music performed by the finest Broadway, rock stars and musicians in the country! Including the music of Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Who, The Grateful Dead, Crosby Stills, Nash (& Young), Arlo Guthrie, Joan Baez, Jefferson Airplane and many more, this is one show you won’t want to miss! For everyone who wanted to be at Woodstock but wasn’t, Peace, Love and Rock N’ Roll will make you feel like you are there!

Ricky Duran: Space & Time Tour • May 6 • Tickets start at $33

Sponsored by Bay State Savings Bank

American singer, songwriter and musician Ricky Duran garnered international attention with his compelling performances on NBC’s “The Voice.” He recently released a full album titled “Space & Time” charting at No. 1 on iTunes. In a behind-the-scenes interview, Ricky Duran said, “I always love going back to Worcester. They welcome me with open arms every time, so I’m very excited to get back home.” Click to read the full interview with Ricky Duran.

Celebrating Billy Joel: America’s Piano Man • June 4 • Tickets start at $19

Marking the 50th anniversary of Billy Joel’s iconic album “Piano Man,” this tribute show will spotlight songs from the classic 1973 record, as well as international smash hits such as “New York State of Mind,” “Uptown Girl,” “Vienna,” “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant” and many more. If you’re in the mood for a melody, sing along to your favorite Billy Joel tunes with this superb group of multi-instrumentalists.

Music Worcester presents Sam Bush • June 9 • Tickets start at $28

After a quarter-century of making music with New Grass Revival and collaborating with other bands, this Mandolin Player of the Year winner has gone solo! In his 50 years of performing, he’s released seven albums and a live DVD over the past two decades, in addition to earning the Lifetime Achievement Award for Instrumentalist. Playing newgrass, with the elements of jazz improvisation and rock n’ roll, Sam Bush is sure to put on an unforgettable performance.

Jazz at Sunset • August 25 • Stay tuned for pricing

Presented by 90.5 WICN Public Radio, Downtown Worcester Business Improvement District and The Hanover Theatre.

Behind the theatre in an outdoor, picnic-style concert complete with food trucks and cash bar, enjoy the cool sounds of live jazz with Jazz at Sunset. We will reveal the featured performer and put tickets on sale soon.

The Australian Pink Floyd Show: Dark Side 50 Tour • September 24 • Tickets start at $39

The world’s biggest, best and greatest Pink Floyd tribute show is sure to blow you away! Audiences rave about this incredible show, from the note-for-note perfection all the way to the stunning light and laser show and more. Experience Pink Floyd like never before and celebrate the 50th anniversary of their eighth studio album, “The Dark Side of the Moon.”

Engelbert Humperdinck • September 27 • Tickets start at $49

In a career that spans over 50 years, the legendary Engelbert has generated sales in excess of 140 million records, including 64 gold albums and 35 platinum, four Grammy nominations, a Golden Globe and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His 1968 song “A Man Without Love” recently went No. 1 on Billboard’s Top TV Songs chart after it was featured in an episode of Marvel’s “Moon Knight” series.

KANSAS: Another Fork in the Road 50th Anniversary Tour • October 12 • Tickets start at $45 Composing a catalogue that includes sixteen studio albums and five live albums, KANSAS has produced eight gold albums, three sextuple-Platinum albums, one platinum live album, one quadruple-Platinum single “Carry On Wayward Son” and another triple-Platinum single “Dust in the Wind.” Currently comprised of original drummer Phil Ehart, bassist/vocalist Billy Greer, vocalist/keyboardist Ronnie Platt, violinist/guitarist David Ragsdale, keyboardist/ vocalist Tom Brislin and original guitarist Richard Williams, KANSAS continues to perform in front of large and enthusiastic audiences around the world.

Mania The ABBA Tribute • November 4 • Tickets start at $24.50

Since their formation in 1999, this production has sold out theaters and concert halls across the globe, bringing the music of the beloved Swedish supergroup to more than 3 million people. Performing your favorite ABBA hits and recreating their look is a one-of-a-kind experience for both lifelong and the new generation of ABBA fans. You won’t want to miss the incredible opportunity to see this tribute show!

Want to make the most of your theatre experience? Pre-book your parking, head into the city early and consider getting dinner or drinks at one of our Gourmet Partners before the show! Theatre members and subscribers receive exclusive discounts for some of Worcester’s finest restaurants.

Header photos: Ricky Duran on The Voice, Lara Smiles © Mark Gibson, The Australian Pink Floyd Show © Mark Gibson, Celebrating Billy Joel Tribute © Lisa Boehm. Show photos (Left to right, top to bottom): Ricky Duran. Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock and Roll. Celebrating Billy Joel Tribute © Lisa Boehm. Sam Bush. Jazz at Sunset 2017. Englebert Humperdinck © Greg Gorman. Ronnie Platt © Mark Schierholz. Mania The ABBA Tribute.

Discover Dazzling Dancers, Masterful

Magicians and Clever Comedians

Experience the powerful language of dance with the Dance Theatre of Harlem as they perform The Hazel Scott Ballet on May 4, presented by Music Worcester. In an interview with Backstage, Brazilian ballet dancer Ingrid Silva explained her experience in the company as “revolutionary... Honestly, it was the first time I saw dancers that looked like me. Dance Theatre of Harlem is one of the most diverse companies in the dance world. We have dancers from Brazil, from Cuba, Haiti, Korea, Mexico, all in one company. That’s really beautiful, because it reflects so many people in the audience. This is what dance is about.”

Tickets start at $39. Click to learn why the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture has the pointe shoes and tights worn by Ingrid Silva.

Witness incredible illusions, a daring escape from Houdini’s water torture cell, a mind-blowing prediction that must be seen to be believed, levitation high above the stage and a finale beyond explanation with Champions of Magic on May 7. In an interview with the cast, Fernando Velasco said the most challenging illusion he’s learned is the Harry Houdini Water Torture Cell. Velasco explained, “Hands down this has been the most challenging escape mainly because I’ve got a fear of drowning and I was genuinely terrified of being trapped upside down underwater. It took me weeks just to be comfortable inside the tank.”

Tickets start at $39.

Don’t miss the King of Rant, Grammy-winning standup comedian Lewis Black on May 12 for his Off the Rails Tour as he uses his trademark style of comedic yelling and animated finger-pointing to skewer anything and anyone that gets under his skin. You might know Black from his Comedy Central specials, his livestream show called “The Rant is Due” or even from his voice role as Anger in the Pixar film “Inside Out.” His comedic brilliance lies in his ability to make people laugh at the absurdities of life, with topics that include current events, social media, politics and anything else that exposes the hypocrisy and madness he sees in the world. Please note this show contains strong adult language.

Tickets start at $49.

Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hop Hippo and a colony of hilarious, clever penguins as they bound out of the zoo and onto our stage in Madagascar The Musical on May 19. If you loved the movie, you won’t want to miss this! Filled with outlandish characters, adventures galore and an upbeat score, you’ll have no choice but to “Move It, Move It!” Madagascar The Musical is the perfect family outing, with vibrancy and pace for audiences of all ages. Tickets start at $39.50.

Young fans and their families are in store for even more adventure on the creature trail when the world-famous Kratt Brothers hit the road with an allnew stage adventure! Wild Kratts® LIVE 2.0: Activate Creature Power®!, the theatrical production starring Martin and Chris Kratt, based on the Emmynominated hit PBS KIDS series, will bring audiences along on a “wild” ride with a dynamic mix of live-action and animation on October 21. Chris Kratt says “Wild Kratts LIVE 2.0 is perfect for explorers of all ages. It features all the excitement and interactive elements that Wild Kratts fans love, plus awesome new Kratt Brothers twists and turns.” Tickets start at $30.

Scotland, that craggy, majestic, malt whiskeyed land, has spawned many myths besides the Loch Ness Monster. One such legend is Colin Mochrie (Hilaritycus smoothius). Now, Brad Sherwood (Cranius gigantum) is ward and caretaker of Mochrie, his least successful pupil. Brad is given a stipend from the Canadian government to keep Colin from hurting himself or livestock. As part of Colin’s therapy, Brad tours with him in an improvised stage performance that helps creatively channel Mochrie’s delusions. Armed with only their wits, “Whose Line is it Anyway?” stars Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood are taking to the live stage and returning to Worcester on October 14 and they’re...Scared Scriptless. Tickets start at $28.

See and Be Seen at THT Rep’s The Marvelous Party

THT Rep rounds out its first full season with a party... The Marvelous Party, an immersive party performance May 12-14, generously sponsored by The Hanover Insurance Group!

The Marvelous Party features the poem “I’ve Been to a Marvelous Party” by Noël Coward, the British comedian and dramatist. THT Rep’s Artistic Director Livy Scanlon explains, “It’s a silly poem that pokes fun at upper-class British folks behaving badly at a party.”

Audiences (partygoers) will experience an evening filled with musical numbers, poetry and gaiety, all orchestrated by the Emcee. “It’s a fun night... It’s not a seated performance, it’s more like a cocktail party that has performances throughout,” Scanlon explains.

Choose your party clothes! From tuxes to t-shirts, the dress code is up to you!

THT Rep makes professional theatre in Worcester, for Worcester, engaging and energizing audiences with inspiring works staged at the BrickBox Theater. The BrickBox is an intimate new stage in the Jean McDonough Arts Center (JMAC) at 20 Franklin Street, just a three-minute walk from The Hanover Theatre.

To cultivate community and equity, THT Rep’s tiered ticketing invites patrons to choose what they pay. From $8 Subsidized Tickets to $150 Angel Plus Tickets, admission is a gesture of support for THT Rep’s important work.

Looking for more ways to support THT Rep?

Help turn $1.5 million into $3 million by contributing to the THT Rep Matching Challenge Grant! Through December 31, the McDonough Foundation will match your donation, dollar for dollar, up to $1.5 million.

Your gift allows us to pursue inclusive casting, set equitable ticket prices and choose works that appeal to both the general public and student audiences.

No gift is too small... or too big.

Celebrate 15 Years of Unforgettable Special Events at THT

Over the past 15 years, THT has worked with hundreds of organizations, businesses and groups of friends and family to create stunning, memorable settings for all types of events. We have witnessed the crowning of the first Muslim Miss Massachusetts, the naturalization of over 700 people, the white coat ceremonies of UMass Medical School students and the graduations of thousands of high school students on our main stage. We have celebrated with our conservatory students through victories at the Youth America Grand Prix dance competitions, learned new ways of understanding ourselves and others through events like the LGBTQ film festival and honored those who have faced struggles such as breast cancer through events like Pink – Lighting the Way with UMass Memorial Medical Center.

Corporate receptions, conferences, holiday parties, film screenings, fundraisers, birthday parties and so much more are all possible here at the theatre!

Whether you are planning an intimate family gathering or hosting a large corporate event, we work with you to find the perfect event space to fit your needs. Event spaces include our historic lobby, modern lobby, Franklin Square Salon, grand promenade, main stage and more.

Create your own memories and put your events in the spotlight! We can’t wait to help you create memories you’ll cherish for years to come here at THT. For more information, contact Jackie Dillman at 508.471.1799 or jdillman@thehanovertheatre.org.

Click here to learn more about venue rentals

Upcoming Private Events

May 5

Blackstone Valley Tech Graduation

June 2 Nipmuc Regional High School Graduation

June 6 Gerald Creamer Graduation

June 12

Claremont Academy Graduation

June 20 The Hanover Insurance Group PEA Awards

June 27 THT Volunteer Recognition Night

June 28 USA Today High School Sports Awards

Aug 23 Massachusetts Naturalization Ceremony

Sept 8 UMass White Coat Ceremony 2023

T.H. Chan School of Medicine Class of 2026 students at the White Coat Ceremony, a rite of passage for first-year medical students.

Photo by UMass Chan Medical School.

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