Behind the Scenes
MAGAZINE Spring/Summer 2021
BACK TOGETHER AGAIN SUMMER IN THE CITY COMMUNITY + EQUITY
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Behind the Scenes MAGAZINE Spring/Summer 2021
Dear Reader, Our collective hard work, patience, persistence and planning is coming together as we ALL look forward to touring productions, live concerts and gathering safely in groups again. The last year has proven how much we value shared experiences and human connection in our lives. Governor Baker’s announcement to end the state of emergency in Massachusetts on June 15, 2021 reassures us that we are on track for a full reopening of our theatre this fall.
We continue to be incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received and are working tirelessly to bring the best of Broadway, music, dance, family favorites and so much more back to Worcester in the safest ways possible. As you read through these pages, I hope that you are inspired by some of our community programs and just as excited to enjoy concerts, shows and the overall experience of returning to the theatre as we are. This summer is bustling with activity as our Youth Acting Company and 2021 Youth Summer Program presents entertaining performances of Urinetown, Oklahoma! and Getting To Know…Oklahoma!. Outdoor performances include Jazz at Sunset as well as THT Rep’s production of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, free and open to the public this August. Check out our upcoming events on page 5 and join us for an evening of serious fun, an afternoon of special memories or a whole season of adventure. Once again, we’re proud to say that there’s something for everyone at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts. See you at the theatre!
Lisa K. Condit, Vice President of Communications
Book early for your group and save money! Inside Classes Offer Fun, Creative Outlet.....................4 See You Back at the Theatre!.............................5 Enjoy Broadway’s Return to Worcester! ...........6 Getting Students Back on Stage........................8 Friends, Romans, Countrymen..........................10 Taking a Step Back to Re-Focus.......................12 When in Worcester.............................................13 We Survived, Now It’s Time to Thrive!...............14 Back in the Spotlight..........................................16
Groups save $10-$14 per ticket on most shows! Call Amy at 508.471.1763 to reserve seats today. No deposit required!
WYSH Project Offers Unique Opportunity........18 Adopt-A-School Program and the NEA..........20 Your Safety Takes Center Stage.......................21 Subscribe to Broadway in Worcester...............22
Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory Spring/Summer 2021
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Classes Offer Fun, Creative Outlet At the conservatory, we cultivate individual attention, ignite creativity and inspire confidence through arts education. The arts play a vital role in helping individuals develop selfesteem, compassion and problemsolving skills. This last year reminded us that the arts are a necessity and are important to our well-being.
With yearly classes in music, drama, dance and technical theatre for students of all ages, there is something for everyone at the conservatory. “We’re really about process over product and ensuring that students truly understand art form that is the performance, whether it be through dance, music, drama or technical theatre. I think that’s one of the guiding principles that sets us apart,” Montaner adds.
For Meghan Montaner, president of the conservatory and the theatre’s education division, this was most evident in our students. Seeing them back in the studios and thriving again after months of remote classes made that clear. “Hearing our students’ comments, it is clear that doing something active and creative every day changes their perspective for the better” says Montaner. “Having a creative outlet is vital to their physical and mental health.”
Hear more from Meghan Montaner on a radio interview on Behind the Scenes with The Hanover Theatre on Talk of the Commonwealth with Hank Stolz on WCRN 830AM at thehanovertheatreblog.org. Looking to get creative this summer with some learning of your own? Register today at TheHanoverTheatre. org/Conservatory
NEW SUMMER SESSION AVAILABLE
IGNITE CREATIVITY • INSPIRE CONFIDENCE REGISTER TODAY FOR CLASSES & LESSONS
CONSERVATORY
TheHanoverTheatre.org/conservatory
TheHanoverTheatre.org/conservatory
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See You Back at the Theatre!
An Evening with David Sedaris September 27
Photo © Adam DeTour
June 25-27 Urinetown presented by THTC Youth Acting Company July 23-24 Oklahoma! presented by the Youth Summer Program* August 7 Getting To Know... Oklahoma! presented by the Pre-Teen Summer Program* August 13-14 Oklahoma! presented by the Youth Summer Program* August 27 Jazz at Sunset presents The Shaboo All-Stars September 18 Ricky Duran September 27 An Evening with David Sedaris October 2 Music Worcester presents Dorrance Dance* October 3 Masters of Illusion October 16-17 Shen Yun October 19 Gordon Lightfoot the Legend in Concert October 21-24 Escape to Margaritaville Sponsored by The Club at Rockland Trust Bank** October 30 Gilberto Santa Rosa* November 4 The Moth Mainstage Sponsored by FLEXcon November 5 Warren Miller* November 6 Get the Led Out* November 11-14 The Band’s Visit Sponsored by The Club at Rockland Trust Bank** November 17 Brian Regan November 26-28 The Nutcracker Sponsored by Berkshire Bank* November 30 A Magical Cirque Christmas* December 1 Sarah Brightman: HYMN In Concert December 3 Boston Pops 2021 Tour sponsored by The Hanover Insurance Group December 7 Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson: An Astrophysicist Goes to the Movies* December 15-23 A Christmas Carol* January 16 STOMP* January 21 Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood* February 4 Dinosaur Zoo Live* February 25 Music Worcester presents the Russian National Ballet’s Swan Lake* March 3-6 CATS Sponsored by Country Bank** March 12 Red Hot Chilli Pipers* March 18 Piff the Magic Dragon* March 19 One Night of Queen* March 30 Straight No Chaser: The Open Bar Tour March 31-April 3 Summer: The Donna Summer Musical Sponsored by Bay State Bank** April 7-10 Blue Man Group Sponsored by Berkshire Bank** April 14-17 Anastasia Sponsored by Cornerstone Bank** April 24 Wild Kratts Live* May 5-8 The Prom Sponsored by Fidelity Investments** June 25 Menopause the Musical
Jerry Seinfeld and Neil Berg ticket holders, please stay tuned while we reschedule these performances. Please understand that all shows, dates, times and pricing are subject to change. * Show may not be on sale at the time of printing. Stay updated, join our mailing list or visit our website. ** At this time, tickets to our 2021-2022 Broadway Series are only available as subscription packages. See page 22.
Jazz at Sunset Returns
The Shaboo All-Stars • Friday, August 27 • 6:30 The Hanover Theatre, WICN 90.5 FM and the Downtown Worcester Business Improvement District are pleased to announce a safe and socially distanced return of Jazz at Sunset this summer in the lot behind The Hanover Theatre. Details on the event and will be updated on our website with safe social distancing guidelines. Since safety is our main priority, seating may be limited. Ticket sales begin June 22. Tickets: $25 general admission. Limited reserved tables for four: $160. Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory Spring/Summer 2021
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Enjoy Broadway’s Return to Worcester!
Company of the National Tour, in Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville. © Matthew Murphy.
Whether you are a casual theatregoer or a loyal Broadway subscriber, you’ve probably been longing for an in-person, live performance as much as we have. There is no better way to reintroduce yourself to theatre than with our 2021-2022 Broadway Series, full of dazzling new hits and record-breaking, treasured classics. New for the 2021-2022 season, seven-show subscribers can exchange into any performance or show in the Broadway Series. You read that right! If you subscribe to all seven shows but aren’t feeling comfortable about being in the theatre in October, you can exchange your subscription ticket(s) into one of the other six shows in the Broadway Series. Our goal is to make coming back to the theatre as stress-free as possible, and your health and safety remain a top priority. Please note that In addition to enhanced cleaning and safety protocols, all staff and volunteers interacting with the public and backstage operations will be vaccinated in order to provide the safest environment possible. page 8
Plan your escape to the theatre! You’ll be on island time with Escape to Margaritaville, travelling off the beaten path for The Band’s Visit and making new memories with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking musical spectacular CATS. Get ready to relive the sensational story of Summer: The Donna Summer Musical and experience the everevolving phenomenon that is Blue Man Group. To close out the Broadway Series, we look forward to embarking on an epic journey with the romantic and adventure-filled Anastasia and being dazzled by the award-winning and big-hearted comedy musical The Prom. This season is filled with love, laughter, adventure, excitement...and we can’t wait to share it with you. Reserve your subscription today. Only subscribers guarantee the best seats at the best price and can defer payments until September 15. Learn more on page 22 or TheHanoverTheatre.org/ subscriptions.
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Broadway Returns to Worcester... Better Than Ever! Enjoy these fresh, new hits and treasured classics at one of the top theatres in the world...right here in your own back yard.
JIMMY BUFFETT’S
Set Your Mind on Island Time.
Venue • Date • Time
Escape to Margaritaville | October 21-24, 2021 Generously sponsored by The Club at Rockland Trust. Start your escape to the theatre with the party that never stops. Don’t forget your sunglasses when you embark on this fun-filled journey through Jimmy Buffet’s greatest hits! It’s “Five O’Clock Somewhere” so grab your margaritas and join us for a tropical vacation right here in downtown Worcester when you Escape to Margaritaville! The Band’s Visit | November 11-14, 2021 Generously sponsored by The Club at Rockland Trust. Winner of an amazing ten 2018 Tony® Awards, including Best Musical, Best Book, Best Score, Best Actor in a Musical, Best Actress in a Musical and Best Direction of a Musical! The Band’s Visit has been wowing audiences with its exquisite storytelling and brilliant representation of Middle Eastern culture and people for years. This musical explores the friendships we can form, connections we can make, even as strangers, and how there is beauty in the unexpected. CATS | March 3-6, 2022 Generously sponsored by Country Bank. The fourth longest-running Broadway show, the beloved CATS is making its way back to Worcester. Get gussied up for the Jellicle Ball at The Hanover Theatre. This high-energy feline fiasco has some of the most iconic choreography in Broadway history, presenting an anthropomorphic illusion through dance. You simply cannot miss this classic seven-time Tony®-winning musical! Summer: The Donna Summer Musical | March 31 - April 3, 2022 Generously sponsored by BayState Savings Bank. She was a girl from Boston with a voice from heaven who shot through the stars from gospel choir to dance floor disco queen. But what the world didn’t know was how Donna Summer risked it all to break through barriers, becoming the icon of an era and the inspiration for every music diva who followed. Get ready to “Stamp Your Feet” because Summer: The Donna Summer Musical has a score featuring more than 20 of Summer’s hits that will have you ready to dance the night away!
Shows & dates subject to change.
Blue Man Group | April 7-10, 2022 Generously sponsored by Berkshire Bank. Winner of a Drama Desk Award for Unique Theatrical Experience, the Blue Man Group is sure to put on a show the whole family can enjoy! You never quite know what you’re going to experience during these hilarious, interactive and energetic performances, so get ready for a fun-filled spectacle at The Hanover Theatre. Anastasia | April 14-17, 2022 Generously sponsored by Cornerstone Bank. All aboard the train from St. Petersburg, Russia to Paris, France for a “Journey to the Past” with Anastasia, the Broadway musical reimagination of the 1997 animated classic adaptation of the legend of Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia. Winner of a Drama Desk Award and an Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Projection Design, this show will truly transport the whole family into this royal world of opulence. The Prom | May 5-8, 2022 Generously sponsored by Fidelity Investments. Our season concludes with the first musical of the 2018–2019 Broadway season to be named a New York Times Critics Pick, with Jesse Green calling it “such a joyful hoot!” The seven-time Tony®nominated musical is making its way from Broadway and Netflix to The Hanover Theatre main stage. The Prom is a beautiful, funny coming-of-age, coming-out story featuring energetic dancing, powerful vocals and a heaping dose of heart!
Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory Spring/Summer 2021
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Getting Students Back on Stage
YBW members perform in filmed productions of The Stories of Peter and the Wolf & Hansel and Gretel (above) and The Nutcracker (below). Mike Nyman Photography.
Ensuring our conservatory students had a variety of unique performance opportunities remained a top priority during the COVID-19 pandemic. From radio plays and filmed ballets to plays adapted for Zoom, students were still able to feel the excitement and adrenaline that come with performing for an audience, albeit in a different way. As Meghan Montaner, president of the conservatory and education division, explained, “It was important that we maintain as many student performances as possible. While the conservatory primarily focuses on process over product, we know that performances are an integral part of the student experience.” Conservatory staff and faculty worked hard to determine new and exciting ways to showcase student work in a safe, socially distanced way. In the summer of 2020, we restructured our annual Musical Theatre Youth Summer Programs to successfully complete our Pre-Teen Program and two sessions of our Teen Program. The Teen Program presented Monty Python’s SPAMALOT – A Socially Distanced Concert-ish version, created specifically in light of the pandemic. Students rehearsed on Zoom for three hours each morning and visited various locations around central Massachusetts to perform socially distanced scenes each afternoon. The final production was presented drive-in movie style in the parking lot behind the theatre for students and their immediate family members. Pre-Teen students presented Monty page 10
Python’s SPAMALOT Young@Part version in an entirely virtual format for families and friends. In fall 2020, conservatory classes returned to the studios with both in-person and online offerings available. With the return of classes came the return of our resident performance companies: the Youth Ballet Company of Worcester (YBW) and the Youth Acting Company (YAC). Each company typically performs in at least three productions a year. While most of their traditional performance opportunities were off the table, new performance mediums provided a fun challenge for students and pushed them to grow as performers in new ways. Our YBW members enjoyed a variety of performances including filmed, socially distanced productions of The Nutcracker and The Stories of Peter and the Wolf & Hansel and Gretel. Students
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had to adapt to this Each spring, conservatory unique performance students typically style by getting used to participate in multiple end performing in front of very of year performances, all few people or in some of which were virtual last cases, just a camera. “It’s year. This year, students a lot different because presented a Student there’s not as much Choreography and [audience] feedback,” says Variations Showcase on Morgan Soule, Apprentice May 8 that featured original, YBW member, “and the student-created pieces and satisfaction of performing classical ballet variations. YAC members rehearse for Urinetown (above) and radio play for a big audience is a lot About 100 people attended, “Murder in the Studio” (below). THTC Staff photos. different than performing in and the event proved to front of a small audience or be a great trial run for the for film.” Many YBW members had conservatory’s full end-of-year the chance to perform for a larger performance, the Spring Reflection, audience in March during the Youth on May 23. America Grand Prix competition, which was held at the theatre and Looking ahead, YAC members will represented the first public event on present the musical Urinetown June the mainstage in over a year. The 25-27 at the BrickBox Theater. For competition drew dancers from as most students, this will be their first far away as Florida, and proved live musical performance in over a to be a safe, successful event that year. “The Youth Acting Company provided everyone involved with a has been a real life-saver this glimmer of hope for future live events year,” says YAC member Heather and performances. Bachand. “After everyone’s school shows were canceled last year, I’ve The Youth Acting Company felt incredibly grateful for all the presented three unique opportunities THTC has given me. performances beginning with Doing theatre is what keeps me Agatha Christie’s murder mystery sane, so doing three productions in radio play, “Murder in the Studio” one school year was magical. The “After everyone’s on Halloween weekend. Students most special project will definitely be studied the art of voice acting and Urinetown. After a year of not doing school shows even had the opportunity to record musical theatre, I started to question were canceled promotional clips for the show to my career path...starting this show air on Worcester talk radio station has revived that fire in me. It is so last year, I’ve felt WCRN 830AM. In February, the YAC comforting to know that at the end incredibly grateful for of each day I can come to rehearsal presented a Zoom performance of an abbreviated, 90-minute version of and make art with my best friends.” all the opportunities William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar THTC has given me.” adapted and directed by Olivia This summer, the conservatory’s Scanlon. Youth Summer Program will - Heather Bachand present the first musical back For YAC member Tyler Keogh, just on the theatre’s mainstage with YAC member being at the conservatory has performances of Rodgers and helped him navigate a challenging Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! prior to year. “This year has been very different from the return of touring shows to the theatre’s schedule past years, but I’m so glad I could come to the in the fall. “After a tumultuous year, it has been a conservatory every week and just be able to make breath of fresh air to see our stage alive once again art with people who love to do it as much as I do” and to watch our students shine,” says Montaner. says Keogh. “I appreciate that everyone at THTC “We are grateful for the students, families and works so hard to keep the arts alive when not many faculty who have stayed with us and embraced other studios or schools are. I think it’s always great every change along the way from online classes, to have different experiences as well, and I’m very hybrid classes, filmed, virtual and socially distanced thankful for this company and all the opportunities performances, and everything in between. The it’s given me to adapt and become a better actor in future of the performing arts is bright.” any circumstances.” Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory Spring/Summer 2021
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Friends, Romans, Countrymen... THT Rep to Perform Julius Caesar In just a few months, we’ll bring people back together for the much-longed-for shared experience of live theatre! In August, The Hanover Theatre Repertory (THT Rep) will perform Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar on the steps of City Hall. A suspenseful political drama, Julius Caesar chronicles the battle for the soul of the ancient Roman republic. As politicians and commoners alike undermine democratic values and take matters into their own hands, society unravels. Civil strife erupts in civil war. “Our own democracy stands on the same knife’s edge,” says director Livy Scanlon, who also serves as artistic director of THT Rep. “We’re staging this play in this moment for this audience to pose the question: are we Rome?” Far from a five-hour snoozer, Scanlon’s adaptation trims the play to a swift 90 minutes with intermission. An original cast of nearly 50 characters has been compressed to only 20, to be portrayed by a mix of seasoned professionals from Worcester, Boston and New York, together with students from the prestigious Brown University / Trinity Rep Master of Fine Arts program in Providence, RI and actor trainees from THT Rep’s new Worc at Play program. Detailed period costumes (read: togas!) by New York-based designer Lex Liang will be embellished with contemporary flare. Casting will be similarly anachronistic. Scanlon’s immersive, energetic staging will unfold not only on the steps of City Hall, but also carry through the Worcester Common oval, creating an invitation to the audience to boo and cheer along with the action.
Free and Open to the Public on the Worcester Common August 4-6 public preview shows August 7 opening night August 10-13, 17-19 and 22 at 8 PM does not include possible rain dates and extra performances
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All performances of Julius Caesar will be free and open to the public. Tickets will be available online for advanced reservation, while walk-ups will be welcome onsite. Please stay tuned for more information! Julius Caesar is presented in partnership with the City of Worcester and the Downtown Worcester Business Improvement District, which has received a generous grant from the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism (MOTT) to activate the downtown neighborhoods, promote local businesses around the performances and draw tourists to the heart of the Commonwealth.
Left: Livy Scanlon (Director amd Antonia) and Kathryn Moncrief (Associate Director and Dramaturg) discuss the setting. Above Joshua Wolf Coleman (Brutus) and Dale Place (Caesar) meet on the Worcestser Common. Photos UnityMike.
About THT Rep
As with all THT Rep productions, COVID-19 safety protocols will be in place for the run of Julius Caesar.
A new initiative from The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts, The Hanover Theatre Repertory (THT Rep) entertains, engages and energizes audiences with dynamic theatrical productions focusing on classics, modernclassics and classics-inspired works.
Carpe diem and save-the-date! We look forward to seeing you soon!
We look forward to bringing homegrown, professional theater to central MA.
More info: TheHanoverTheatre.org/juliuscaesar Listen to Behind the Scenes interviews TheHanoverTheatreblog.org Meet the cast and creative team TheHanoverTheatre.org/jccastandcreative Learn about other Downtown Worcester events Downtownworcester.org Join in related summer library activities Mywpl.org/article/julius-caesar-wpl
Follow the making of Julius Caesar and summer events in downtown. #thtrep #shakespeare #hanovertheatre #downtownworcester #mylocalMA
Thank you to our sponsors! Presenting sponsors
Supporting sponsors Honda of Auburn
A family run business since 1964
Contributing sponsors
Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory Spring/Summer 2021
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Taking a Step Back to Re-Focus: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging
The inaugural class of Worc at Play actors at the BrickBox Theatre. Photo by UnityMike.
2020 was a year of many things. Most of all, it was a year of growth. While the world shut down, we had the opportunity to step back, rethink our organizational priorities and consider how they fit into what we do each and every day. First, we committed to strengthening our practice of equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging. We take our role and responsibility as a cultural gathering place seriously, and know that for us to play that role effectively, we must reflect the community around us in all that we do. Indeed, nothing could be more vital as we strive to ignite and nurture a passion for the performing arts in audiences and artists of today and tomorrow. At the same time, we looked for creative ways to keep audiences engaged, what with the mainstage dark and shuttered. In this crucible, we formed The Hanover Theatre Repertory (THT Rep), a new initiative dedicated to producing homegrown, professional theatre in and for Worcester. THT Rep’s primary home will be the new BrickBox Theater, where we produced The Edgar Allan Poe Double Header and A Christmas Carol Reimagined. For both those productions, we prioritized cultivating equitable, diverse and inclusive creative teams, while examining artistic and production practices page 14
that perpetuate racism and other inequities. With THT Rep’s upcoming production of Julius Caesar, we also launched Worc at Play, a nocost actor training program for greater-Worcester residents ages 18+. Auditions for the program were open to all, including absolute beginners. More than 30 adults came out. From them, THT Rep’s artistic director Livy Scanlon selected just six, who meet weekly for class in preparation to play ensemble roles in Julius Caesar. “One goal with Worc at Play,” Scanlon explains, “is to build a pool of local, skilled adult actors who represent a diverse cross section of age, gender, ethnicity, immigrant status, sexual orientation and lived experience, so our casting at THT Rep can quite literally reflect the members of our community.” Learn more about THT Rep and its upcoming production of Julius Caesar on page 10. Listen to Behind the Scenes interviews with cast and creative team at TheHanoverTheatreblog.org. For more information on The Hanover Theatre Repertory and Worc at Play actor training program visit TheHanoverTheatre.org/thtrep.
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When in Worcester We are so proud to partner with over 100 businesses throughout the Worcester community that cover an array of industries and offer a variety of services. As we raise our curtains again and their doors are wide open, we’d like to ask that you support their continued success. Over 25 local restaurants participate in our Gourmet Partner Program and provide our theatre goers special discounts and offers. Make time to enjoy a meal, appetizer or beverage before or after a performance or anytime in between! To see a complete listing and for more details including special offers, please visit TheHanoverTheatre.org/ gourmet-partners. If you need a place to stay, transportation or attire, our Hospitality Partners are here to serve you, so please reach out to them at TheHanoverTheatre.org/ hospitality-partners. Also, please visit one of our many retail, lifestyle and service Promotional Partners and let them know that you not only appreciate their support of our theatre and the arts, but that you also appreciate them. Visit TheHanoverTheatre.org/promotional-partner.
And of course, we’d also like to acknowledge our Corporate Partners and Sponsors for all they do, listed at TheHanoverTheatre.org/corporate-sponsors. A big thank you to all of these amazing businesses! Plan more downtown and Worcester-centric outings: Downtownworcester.org or discovercentralma.org Join in summer library and reading activities: Mywpl.org/article/julius-caesar-wpl
The Hanover Theatre Conservatory’s Youth Acting Company presents
Winner of three Tony® Awards, Urinetown is a sidesplitting sendup of greed, love, revolution (and musicals!), in a time when water is worth its weight in gold.
June 25 & 26 at 7 PM, June 27 at 2 PM at the BrickBox Theater Tickets available at TheHanoverTheatre.org Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory Spring/Summer 2021
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We Survived, Now It’s Time to Thrive!
Preliminary renderings by Beta Group include a pedestrian plaza and an outdoor stage in front of the theatre. The project supports the vision of a growing cultural center downtown, adding to the vibrancy of the area and giving visitors another reason to make the city a vibrant cultural destination.
Last June, The Hanover Theatre’s chairman of the board, Steve Joseph, talked about his vision for the organization’s future during our weekly Behind the Scenes radio program. His term began just a few months before the pandemic hit. At that time, Main Street - Streetscape Improvements his vision was to continue expanding our offerings Octoberof2019 and to increase the diversity our staff, our shows and our audience. He maintained that the more people we involved from the community, the better our organization would be able to fulfill its mission and vision. He also wanted to make sure that we stabilized the theatre’s finances in an extraordinarily challenging situation to ensure our reopening once the pandemic passed. “From my perspective, the board chairs, members of the board who have served, did a tremendous job of building the theatre to one of the premiere theatres in the country. To me, my legacy is asking how do I maintain that? How do we expand that? How do we make it stronger? And I think the other piece that’s important is to expand the support of the theatre to maintain its long-term viability,” said Steve Joseph, Board of Directors Chairman. A year ago, we had no idea how an extended shutdown would affect Worcester’s vibrant cultural scene. Around the world, the creative sector has been devastated by the pandemic, with many organizations forced to close their doors and countless artists unable to work. We were equally mindful of the toll on our audiences at a time when, more than ever, we needed the sense of connection and community that the arts provide. But as artists always do, we found a way, with your help. page 16
The last year provided an opportunity for our organization to take a step back and restructure so that we could position ourselves for the future. Chris Marrion joined our strategy and leadership team earlier this year as vice president of advancement. Worcester, MA With over 20 years of experience working in the arts, Marrion has an impressive record working in development for Boston Lyric Opera and YoYo Ma’s Silk Road. Most recently, he served as assistant dean at his alma mater, Boston University’s College of Fine Arts. In a recent interview, he shared some of the things that inspire him in his new role including, “Sometimes extraordinary opportunities come along, totally unexpected, and that was the opportunity to come and join the team at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory. I am excited to be able to work in a place where I can help dig into those bigger questions as well as contribute to the success of the organization.” Theatre Creates Community The questions that Marrion especially enjoys discussing include how the arts transform a community and change the way we can envision our future. It was exciting for him to see how The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory transformed the landscape in Worcester while connecting people who otherwise might not seem to have anything in common. Thanks to the hundreds of generous individuals and institutions who supported our Resiliency Fund, we were able to offer virtual and hybrid conservatory classes so that our students could continue to experience the transformative power of the arts. We redesigned our partnerships with Worcester Public Schools so that students could attend performances
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and conservatory classes remotely. We also created some of our most imaginative and exciting theatre productions, from our filmed version of A Christmas Carol Reimagined (with screenings in the BrickBox Theater) and a socially distant Edgar Allan Poe Double Header, to THT Reps’ upcoming production of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar on Worcester Common this August. Thank you! Thanks to the generosity of Veronica and Howard Wiseman, we had the opportunity to do the Ides of March Match to support free public performances of Julius Caesar this summer. We are so grateful for the extraordinary outpouring of support that we received over the past year. We are eagerly looking forward to thanking you in the best way
“We really feel this is an opportunity for people to understand that everybody can be a supporter of the arts. The arts are a thing that we all make happen. People in Worcester are very generous. There’s a real sense of investment in knowing that when we support the arts, we’re getting something back. I’m thrilled with this community support.“ -Julius Caesar Ides of March Supporters Veronica and Howard Wiseman
we know how: by providing an unforgettable experience from the moment you walk through our doors. Your support continues to be critically important in maintaining our historically and culturally significant theatre and providing education and outreach programs that benefit our community. All contributions are 100% tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Find out how you can help at TheHanoverTheatre.org/support. Listen to the full interviews or read highlights about how Steve and Chris became involved and their personal connections to the performing arts on our blog. thehanovertheatreblog.org/ behind-the-scenes-with-stevejoseph-board-chair thehanovertheatreblog.org/ behind-the-scenes-with-chrismarrion-and-looking-ahead-tothe-future
2021 Auditions SAVE THE DATE! Dancers ages 7+ are encouraged to audition.
Auditions: Sunday, Sept 12 Performances: Nov 26-28
For more info: The Hanover Theatre Conservatory education@thehanovertheatre.org 508.471.1794
Photo Mike page Nyman 17 Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory Spring/Summer 2021
Back in the Spotlight to Entertain You. . . Experience a night of fun and laughter November 17 with the comedian Vanity Fair calls “the funniest standup alive.” Setting a comedic standard of excellence that others continually try to follow, Brian Regan made history with the first live broadcast of a stand-up special in Comedy Central’s history. Check out his newest comedy special Brian Regan: On The Rocks on Netflix now.
Join us Saturday, September 18 for a celebration of live music in-person with our own local rising star, Ricky Duran. You watched him pour his heart on “The Voice.” Now, soul singer Ricky Duran brings his passion-driven performance back to Worcester for a night you don’t want to miss, featuring an opening act from local artist Sam James. Hailed as “New York’s hottest and hippest literary ticket” by The Wall Street Journal, The Moth is an acclaimed not-for-profit organization dedicated to the art and craft of storytelling. The Moth Mainstage sponsored by FLEXcon returns to The Hanover Theatre November 4 for an evening of entertainment and enlightenment. An audience-favorite, each Moth Mainstage features simple, old-fashioned storytelling by wildly divergent narrators. Share in celebrating the ability of stories to honor both the diversity and commonality of human experience, and to satisfy a vital human need for connection. page 18
Photo: Simon Fowler
Perhaps most-known for her iconic role in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera, Sarah Brightman’s impressive range of three octaves has enchanted millions across the globe. Today she remains among the world’s most prominent performers. Experience the international singing superstar Sarah Brightman with HYMN In Concert this December 1. From Star Wars to Frozen, The Titanic to The Martian, join Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson as he presents An Astrophysicist Goes to the Movies on December 7 for an entertaining and enlightening movie review of science that our favorite movies got wrong, and some stuff they got right.
TheHanoverTheatre.org • 877.571.SHOW(7469)
Photo: Amazon
enjoyed the show! The Hanover Theatre Youth Summer Program presents
July 23 at 7 PM, July 24 at 2 PM & 7 PM August 13 at 7 PM, and August 14 at 2 PM & 7 PM
E download!
Get a free song
Performances of the Pre-Teen program’s Getting to Know . . . Oklahoma! will be presented on August 7 at 2 PM & 6 PM
Tickets available at TheHanoverTheatre.org
Visit www.rnh.com/contest/Oklahoma and enter the code Surrey to get a free song from Rodgers & Hammerstein’s OKLAHOMA! and learn more about the World’s Greatest Musicals! To learn about putting on a show in your School, Celebrating The Hanover Theatre on their reopening! Theater or Community Center visit www.rnh.com! f i n d Proud u s o ntofaSupport. c e b o o k Proud a n d t to w i serve t t e r this Community.
IC FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
ICCreditUnion.org
Behind the ScenesWorcester at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory Spring/Summer 2021 947 W. Boylston Street, 800.262.1001
page 19
WYSH Project Offers Unique Opportunity for Worcester Youth WYSH Project participants engage in an activity with co-facilitator Trinidad Ramkissoon at the group’s first meeting. THTC Staff Photo.
This spring, the conservatory launched a new program specifically for Worcester youth ages 14-18 called the Worcester Youth Speak Honestly (WYSH) Project. During the ten-week program, students work with cofacilitators Sharon Hart and Trinidad Ramkissoon to create an original piece of devised theatre based on their life experiences and stories. The program has eleven participants in its inaugural session, all of whom either live or go to school in Worcester. According to Sharon Hart, “This program is meant to offer Worcester youth the chance to share their stories and unique commentary on everything from social justice issues, to what it’s like living in Worcester. We know that the youth in our community have powerful stories to tell right now and we are eager to provide them with the space to do so.” page 20
“We know that the youth in our community have powerful stories to tell right now and we are eager to provide them with the space to do so.” - Sharon Hart, outreach programs coordinator
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The WYSH Project culminates in performances of their work at the BrickBox Theater on July 9 and 10, which will be open to the public. According to Meghan Montaner, president of the conservatory and education division, “Theatre creates an incredible opportunity for us to share the diverse stories of our community. The collaborative nature of devised theatre will allow each unique voice to be heard in a safe, supportive environment. We are grateful to the Worcester Arts Council for championing this effort.” This program is supported in part by a grant from the Worcester Arts Council, a local agency, which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
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Adopt-A-School Program Approved for $10k Grant from the NEA The Hanover Theatre As we seek innovative & Conservatory for ways to fulfill our the Performing Arts mission to ignite and has been approved nurture a passion for for a $10,000 Grants the performing arts in for Arts Projects audiences and artists of award to support today and tomorrow, the Adopt-A-School Summer presents the program. This project perfect opportunity for will help us to fulfill us to collaborate with our mission to ignite school administrators and nurture a passion and teachers on for the performing this arts enhanced arts in audiences curriculum-based and artists of today program. “We are and tomorrow. At its thrilled that our Adoptcore, Adopt-A-School A-School program aims to enhance the Students pose before the On Your Feet has been selected for Adopt-A-School performance in 2019. funding by the NEA for learning experience Photo: Andrea Seward. by tying every day a second time. After a curriculum to a live year without field trips Broadway performance that an entire school body and live performances, we are eager to bring the can experience together. The Hanover Theatre’s students of South and Burncoat high schools back to project is among the more than 1,100 projects our building next spring to witness this inspiring story,” across America totaling nearly $27 million that were said Meghan Montaner, president of the theatre’s selected during this second round of Grants for Arts conservatory and education division.” Projects fiscal year 2021 funding. Over a period of three weeks, all 2,400 Burncoat “As the country and the arts sector begin to imagine High School and South High School students will returning to a post-pandemic world, the National participate in lessons within every subject that Endowment for the Arts is proud to announce incorporate Summer’s themes, historical and funding that will help arts organizations such as sociological elements, artistic aspects and musical The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the score. Cast members will visit the school to interact Performing Arts reengage fully with partners and with students prior to the show. At the culmination audiences,” said NEA Acting Chairman Ann Eilers. of the program, both schools will see the show for “Although the arts have sustained many during the free and witness their lessons come to life on stage. pandemic, the chance to gather with one another Student projects will be displayed in the theatre’s and share arts experiences is its own necessity and lobby throughout the run of the show so that the pleasure.” community can witness the incredible work of our public schools. Some students will even rehearse The Adopt-A-School program was created in a piece from the show and perform alongside the 2013 to provide a school-wide arts experience for cast in the finale. Following the performance, the Worcester’s South High School. Eight years later, the student body will participate in a talk-back with the program now introduces youth from both Burncoat actors before returning to school. High School and South High School to Broadway theatre and ties arts into core curriculum concepts In the Worcester Public Schools, many students are to enhance learning. The theatre’s education staff economically disadvantaged and have limited works collaboratively with teachers to incorporate access to the arts in our community. The Adopt-Athe themes, history and social impacts from a School program aims to provide students in the city Broadway show into lessons across every subject with the opportunity to experience and interact with (ELA, history, chemistry, physics, biology, algebra, live theatre on an annual basis. Over the last eight geometry and more). For the 2022 Adopt-A-School years, thousands of students have experienced their program, the theatre is excited to partner with first Broadway show through this program. the national tour of Summer: The Donna Summer Musical. For information on the projects included in the grant announcement, visit arts.gov/news. page 22
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Your Safety Takes Center Stage We can’t wait until we are all back together again at The Hanover Theatre, enjoying another fantastic line-up of entertainment, Broadway tours and annual favorites on our stage! Your health and safety are of the utmost importance to us. If you already have tickets or a subscription with us for this season, your tickets are secure. We are holding your seats for all of your upcoming shows. We will ensure maximum flexibility when it’s time to return to the theatre. We know many have questions about the upcoming season and what the experience of attending the theatre will be like. Please rest assured, all decisions regarding the necessary protocols and policies
for the health and safety of our audiences will be guided by medical and public health advice and will comply with current MA state regulations. We will make additional adjustments as required by incoming shows and touring productions, and to ensure that YOU feel safe. Changes will be communicated to ticket holders and other guests and via our website. Please allow extra time for your arrival as we welcome you back safely into the theatre again. We will continue to communicate the details regarding our protocols as we get closer to the theatre’s reopening this fall. The health and safety of our subscribers, ticket holders, staff, artists and community are our top priorities.
Home Equity Line of Credit Remodel your home office. Consolidate debt. Cover education expenses. With a low rate of Prime minus 1%*, Central One can help you accomplish anything on your “to-do” list. Our rates adjust only once annually. *Variable interest rate as low as Prime minus 1%. Floor rate is 3.25% APR. The Prime Rate is published by the Wall Street Journal; the current Prime rate can be found at the WSJ website. Rate adjustment occurs once per year during month of account anniversary. Max APR is 17.5%. Actual rate will be determined based on credit history, term, loan to value and other factors. Home must be owner-occupied or second home. Minimum line amount of $7,500. Flexible payment terms of up to 30 years. Interest may be tax deductible (consult your tax advisor). Closing costs, property and flood insurance may be required. Rate of 3.25% is current as of April 23, 2021. Other restrictions may apply. All loan programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change. Call a lending specialist at 800-527-1017 for more information.
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Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory Spring/Summer 2021
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NEW! Only seven show subscribers can EXCHANGE YOUR TICKETS INTO ANY 2021-2022 BROADWAY SERIES SHOW OR PERFORMANCE. Only subscribers have access to the BEST SEATS in the theatre. We offer subscription seats in all price levels IN THE ORCHESTRA. DEFER PAYMENTS TILL SEPTEMBER 15, 2021 INTEREST FREE PAYMENT PLANS! See all seven shows for as low as eight monthly payments of $43.63. SAVE UP TO 15% off regular individual ticket prices. That adds up to savings between $50-$98 per adult and even more ($98-$219) on student subscriptions! Save a costly trip to Boston or New York City. See the same shows, but with EASY & AFFORDABLE PARKING and SPECIAL OFFERS from our Gourmet Program restaurant partners. Subscribers are FIRST TO GUARANTEE OR IMPROVE SEATING each year before the Broadway Series goes on sale to anyone else. Enjoy every Broadway performance from your GUARANTEED, SELECTED SEATS. Share the joy and purchase ADDITIONAL TICKETS for any show in the 2021-2022 Broadway Series AT THE SAME GREAT ADULT OR STUDENT SUBSCRIPTION PRICE.
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Behind the Scenes
Magazine is published twice a year by The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts. 2021 ®All rights reserved. page 24
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Editing Team: Lisa K. Condit, Lilly Irwin, Chris Marrion, Meghan Montaner, Diane Pieciak, Kelly Rourke, Olivia Scanlon, Troy Siebels. Designer: Monica Wagner Elefterion Advertise in our next magazine: Call Diane 508.930.2424. All images, unless otherwise noted, copyright ©2021. The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts.
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2 Southbridge Street • Worcester, MA 01608
Worcester Center for Performing Arts is a registered not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, which owns and operates The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts. All donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Cover image: Rachel Lyn Fobbs as Marley, Matthew James Sherrod as Jamal and Company in Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville. © Matthew Murphy.
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