iMPACt Newsletter: Fall 2017 Issue

iMPACt

A look behind the curtain at Mayo Performing Arts Center

A New Miracle on South Street PAGE 4

Inside: Starlight Ball to honor Private Advisor Group Sutton Foster opens 2017-18 season

iMPACt behind the curtain at Mayo Performing Arts Center FallA look 2017

MayoArts.org | Fall Highlights 2017 1 Summer

Welcome to the first edition of iMPACt, our new quarterly e-newsletter. This newsletter is designed to go beyond what you see on the stage and keep you up-to-date on the many wonderful events, individuals and programs that make our non-profit organization one of the top performing arts centers in the state.

Photo: Katharine Boyle

Summer highlights

Seen and heard around MPAC this summer!

Donny & Marie: A little bit country…a little bit rock and roll…and a whole lot of fun. Donny and Marie spiced up the stage at their sold-out August 15 concert, one of 16 summer concerts in July and August.

Music Beyond Borders: MPAC and Morris Arts presented four free summer lunchtime concerts at the Morristown Green as part of the Music Beyond Borders series. Over 1,500 people enjoyed these concerts. Pictured: Feraba.

Summer Camps: Students ages 5–18 participated in a variety of summer performing arts camps.

Boys and Girls Clubs of Paterson: Over 45 students from the Boys and Girls Clubs of Paterson and Passaic participated in a fun and exciting musical theatre class that focused on singing, dancing and theatre games.

Front Cover Photo: Anne Van Druff

OUR MISSION: Mayo Performing Arts Center, a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit performing arts organization, presents a wide range of programs that entertain, enrich and educate the diverse population of the region and enhance the economic vitality of Northern New Jersey.

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A look behind the curtain at Mayo Performing Arts Center

Connect with us

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Tony Winner Sutton Foster Opens Our Season Two-time Tony winner Sutton Foster

will light up the stage Friday, October 6 as MPAC celebrates the start of our 23rd season.

Foster, who has earned Tonys for her performances in Thoroughly Modern Millie and Anything Goes, is also known from her critically-acclaimed comedy series Younger, which airs on TV Land. She also originated roles in Young Frankenstein, The Drowsy Chaperone and Little Women, among others.

Ms. Foster will perform a variety of music spanning Broadway, pop music and American songbook.

Tickets are going fast! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy one of Broadway’s leading ladies.

Showtime is 8 pm. Tickets are $49–$89. Click for more information.

Starlight Ball to Honor Private Advisor Group On Friday November 17,

The Park Savoy will be the fabulous new home to MPAC’s annual gala — The Starlight Ball — generating fresh enthusiasm and excitement for this highly anticipated event.

This year’s honoree is Private Advisor Group, a Registered Investment Advisor located in Morristown.

Founded by Pat Sullivan and John Hyland, the firm oversees more than $23 billion in assets for its 600+ financial advisors who are based nationwide. Over the years, Private Advisor Group has been an integral part of MPAC through their generous support of our events and programs, helping us to achieve our goals.

“We are really looking forward to an exciting evening at our new venue, The Park Savoy Estate,” said Charles Meizoso, Jr., co-chair of the event, along with Wendy Aresty and Marylyn

iMPACt

A look behind the curtain at Mayo Performing Arts Center

John Hyland and Pat Sullivan of Private Advisor Group

McLaughlin. “Guests will be sure to enjoy the Roaring Twenties theme along with entertainment by the MPAC Performing Arts Company and a special guest artist.”

Major event sponsors to date include Private Advisor Group, Jersey Central Power & Light/FirstEnergy Foundation, Mary Jane Robertson and Jock Clark, Wendy Aresty, Unjeria C. Jackson, MD and Larry Thompson, Jacobs Levy Equity Management, RBC Wealth Management and The Hampshire Group.

Individual tickets for the Starlight Ball are $500. Corporate tables are available as well. Please call 973-539-0345 ext. 6526 or click for more information.

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Miracles continue to happen at MPAC New Jersey historian John T. Cunningham often

described the revival of MPAC as “The Miracle on South Street.” In January 2017, new miracles began to take place in MPAC’s education studios every Thursday afternoon with the launch of The Miracle Project.

Photos: Anne Van Druff

Those miracles became evident on the evening of June 6, when students from MPAC’s inaugural Miracle Project classes took the stage for their final class performance in front of family and friends, and everyone in the theatre shared a special moment of sheer joy.

The Miracle Project is an evidenced-based, awardwinning program that uses

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music, dance and theatre to bring out the best of children with autism. Through a method called Inclusion from WithIn (I Win)™ and the “Seven Keys to Unlock Autism,” the program addresses the core challenges of autism — communication, behavior and socialization.

Its goal is to provide children with tools to build communication, social skills, self-esteem through inclusive theater and to become part of a performing arts community.

When MPAC decided to establish a special needs program within its Performing Arts School, Education Director Cathy Roy was determined to create one that would be in line with the school’s philosophy to serve each child, build their self-esteem and give every participant an individual experience. The Miracle Project made for an ideal match. MPAC found its kindred spirit in the

A look behind the curtain at Mayo Performing Arts Center

Autism and Special Needs Programs to Expand this Fall Los Angeles-based program, established by Elaine Hall and chronicled in the Emmy Award winning documentary Autism the Musical. “MPAC and The Miracle Project are so aligned in the way we approach the arts that it was such a natural fit,” said Ms. Hall.

The Miracle Project’s arrival at MPAC comes at a time when a staggering 2.5% of children in New Jersey are diagnosed with autism, considerably higher than the national average of 1.5%.

In December 2016, Hall and her team traveled to Morristown to train MPAC educators. Two 22-week courses for children ages 9-15 began in January 2017. One course was offered for children who required individual aides and featured neuro-typical “peer mentor” students who volunteered to undergo the program alongside their peers with autism. The

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“ This wasn’t just about singing and performing, but also about learning social skills, how to make a friend, gain confidence and become part of something awesome.” years in MPAC’s programs and not only support but befriend these children. “They have the biggest hearts and the funniest personalities,” she said.

second course was designed for students who do not require individual aides, along with 10 volunteer students.

In reality, nobody knew what to expect. There was some apprehension and a little bit of anxiety as to what may happen in the classes. But all preconceived notions were swept away once the teachers and peer volunteers got to know the students, and Thursdays on the MPAC Education floor became something special.

“We looked forward to Thursdays every day of the week. It was our favorite day,” Cathy Roy said.

“We couldn’t wait to see the kids.

I think they did more for us than we did for them.”

“This wasn’t just about singing and performing, but also about learning social skills, how to make a friend, gain confidence and become part of something awesome,” said Jenny Boeckel, MPAC Education Manager, who participated in the program as a teacher.

Peer mentors such as Rachel Levy, a member of MPAC’s Performing Arts Company, had the opportunity to take what they learned from their

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Many of the participants in the program found new friends — with their fellow students, peer mentors and with the instructors. “Using The Miracle Project helped me socialize with others,” said Evan, a student in the program. The class became a safe place where they got to stand out from the crowd — sometimes for one of the few times in their lives. “Everyone can be themselves here, and it’s the type of place where you can express your feelings,” added Ryan, another student in the program. “No matter who you are, we are all equal here.”

Every parent and every teacher wants their child to feel special, included and important, and MPAC’s Miracle Project classes delivered on that promise of giving them a wonderful experience. “For an hour each week, my son got a chance to participate in a class he loves,” said Elle, a mother of one of the students.

As the only organization in New Jersey that is certified to use The Miracle Project’s methodology, MPAC has ambitious plans to grow the program to meet the needs of the autism community. This fall, MPAC will double the program, expanding to four classes and also look for ways to develop programs for adults with autism in the future.

In addition, the Theatre continues to offer “relaxed performances” for families to enjoy an entertainment experience together (see sidebar).

A look behind the curtain at Mayo Performing Arts Center

Major support for MPAC’s Miracle Project program was provided by Jacobs Levy Equity Management. Additional support was provided by the Paragano Family Foundation, The Calais Foundation, Joseph M and Jeanne Goryeb, Gil and Claire Zweig, Nicolas and Christina De Angelo and the Walmart Foundation and by Starlight Ball 2016 Fund-A-Need Donors.

Click here for more information about MPAC’s Miracle Project program, class registration and to view a video of the program in action.

Relaxed Performances MPAC will present three “relaxed performances” that are welcoming to all families and children. Each performance will feature modulated sound and light levels and a relaxed atmosphere where the audience is free to talk, vocalize and leave and re-enter the venue.

This year’s line-up includes: • Sing Along with the Muppet Movie: March 11 at 3 pm • Good Night, Goodnight, Construction Site — the Musical: April 10 at 12:15 pm • Pete the Cat: April 23 at 4 pm If you have any questions about these performances, please contact our box office at 973-539-8008.

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MPAC News Briefs

Inaugural Performing arts School Scholarships Awarded

Christian Harvey of Randolph and Rachel Levy of Montville were recipients of the inaugural MPAC Performing Arts School Scholarships. Both students, who graduated from high school this past June, have been participants and contributors to MPAC’s Education program for many years. Both have been members of our Performing Arts Company, a troupe of teens who perform for area non-profits, senior centers, nursing homes and more throughout the year. They were among the MPAC students selected to attend “Broadway at the White House” in 2015 (with Rachel performing a duet with Kristin Chenoweth).

“Christian and Rachel are representative of the type of dedicated young performers we train in our program at MPAC, who learn that it is important to use your talent and gifts to give back to the community,” said Cathy Roy, Education Director. “Through their work in the Performing Arts Company, in our spring productions and as Miracle Project Peer Volunteers, they have brought joy to thousands of people over the years.”

MPAC Provides Arts Education Programs at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Paterson and Passaic MPAC Education Department ran a 12-session musical theatre program at The Boys and Girls Clubs of Paterson and Passaic this past summer. Over 45 students, ages 5-12, participated in this fun and exciting class which focused on singing, dancing and theatre games. The class culminated in a showcase where the young performers got to show off their skills in front of hundreds of fellow students and family members.

“We are thrilled to work with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Paterson and Passaic and look forward to continuing this relationship as we expand the program this fall,” Education Director Cathy Roy said.

“The goal of the program is to build self-esteem, confidence and expression and expose students to something they wouldn’t have the opportunity to experience.” This program was supported by The TD Charitable Foundation.

Christian is attending Boston Conservatory for Musical Theatre and Rachel USC this fall. We wish them best of luck as they pursue their career goals!

photo above: Christian Harvey and Rachel Levy (far right, 2nd row) with the Performing Arts Company prior to performing with Kristin Chenoweth on Broadway.

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A look behind the curtain at Mayo Performing Arts Center

Staff News

Cathy Roy honored as “Woman Who Shines” In June 2017, The Morris County Chamber of Commerce honored MPAC Education Director Cathy Roy as one of six “Women Who Shine.”

Ms. Roy was acknowledged for efforts building MPAC’s arts education program. The award winners were chosen from more than 100 nominations submitted to the chamber by members.

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Volunteers of the Year

Bob and Karen Terlizzi of Denville have been named MPAC Volunteers of the Year.

The couple has been volunteering at MPAC for 10 years, working over 75 events per season in the past few years. “Bob and Karen exemplify what we look for in our volunteers,” said Erin Pach, Senior House Manager and Volunteer Program Manager. “They are fun, friendly, hard-working, dedicated and up for any challenge. They best represent the professionalism put forth in being a volunteer at MPAC.”

ow are the guidelines and usage requirements for the NJSBR logo or o. The NJSBR colors/color codes are also listed below.

SBR Standard Logo

Volunteers participate in all areas of theatre life. MPAC has over 120 volunteers on an annual basis. Thank you to our volunteers for their generous service to the theatre.

MPAC Ranks in Top 40 Venues Worldwide MPAC ranked 36th in the world in the mid-year rankings of Mid-Sized Theatre Venues published by Pollstar Magazine, the industry trade publication.

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“For a non-profit performing arts center to rank so high is a testament to the extraordinary support we receive from our patrons coupled with the hard work of the staff and volunteers.

We strive to create memorable experiences that bring people back year after year,” said Allison Larena, President and CEO, MPAC.

Greening MPAC

SBR Registered Business Badge Logo MPAC has become a leader in being a “green” performing arts center. We have been recognized as one of the first Performing Arts organizations to become members of the New Jersey Sustainable Business Registry.

MPAC actively uses green-friendly products, energy efficient lighting, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified cleaning materials, biodegradable products and a comprehensive recycling program.

Members Make It Happen!

There’s so much more you can get out of your MPAC experience when Logo/Co you join as a member.

Help keep the arts and arts education a viable and valuable part of our community while enjoying exclusive benefits such as the opportunity to purchase tickets to events prior to public onsales. “Since we joined we have increased our membership because we see how much the Theatre does and how important it is to support it,” said Eileen Rodriguez (pictured above), a Starlight Member for four years.

Starlight membership starts at $1,250 annually; standard membership begins at $150 per year.

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You can help! Make sure that you recycle your drink containers at the end of the evening as well as the program book for that evening if you are not holding on to it as a keepsake. We also offer a paperless program book option available on our website.

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A look behind the curtain at Mayo Performing Arts Center

Click here for membership information.

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What’s Coming This Fall?

Box Office Tip Make sure you’re ordering from MayoArts.org.

October

Third-party resellers use many clever and deceiving means to make you think you are buying directly from us. Don’t be duped! The only official website related to MPAC is MayoArts.org.

There are no authorized resellers of MPAC tickets.

Occasionally, discounted MPAC tickets are offered through NJArtsTix or via Goldstar or Groupon. If a ticket price seems high and ordering fees are off the charts, think twice before hitting that Buy button and check with us first.

Student Discounts

Twenty dollar discounted tickets for high school and college students are available for select MPAC performances.

Students must show Student ID when picking up at the box office. Click here for more information.

Parking Tip

Did you know you can secure parking at the Presbyterian Church and Verizon lots in advance of most performances?

Ticketholders who have given us their email address will get a notification and a purchasing link 7–10 days in advance of their event when parking becomes available for purchase.

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10/1 Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra

Free Events this Fall!

The United States Air Force Heritage of America Band will put on a free concert on Monday, November 6 at 7:30 pm. The band, made up of over 40 professional airman-musicians, perform great orchestral classics, marches, Broadway hits, jazz standards, movie music and patriotic favorites. Tickets will be available October 10.

This year’s annual free family Halloween movie will be Hotel Transylvania 2 on Sunday, October 29 at 3 pm. Following the film, partake in Pumpkin Illumination around the Vail reflecting pool. For adults, we’ll be showing Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds on Thursday, October 19 at 7:30 pm.

Tickets will be available October 2.

“We are thrilled to be able to provide free concerts, movies and lectures for our community throughout the year in order to provide everyone — no matter what income level — access to the arts,” said Allison Larena.

with Wynton Marsalis 10/6 An Evening with Sutton Foster (LIMITED) 10/7 Dixie’s Tupperware Party 10/12 38 Special 10/17 So You Think You Can Dance Live!

10/19: The Birds 10/20 America (SOLD OUT) 10/21 Brian Regan (LIMITED) 10/22 Festival of South African Dance 10/25 Evil Dead the Musical 10/26 Jake Shimabukuro 10/27 Ray LaMontange (LIMITED) 10/28 Jim Breuer 10/29 Hotel Transylvania 2 10/31 ZZ Top (LIMITED)

November

11/2 Jackie Mason 11/3 Kenny G 11/4 A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder 11/5 Mutts Gone Nuts!

11/6 USAF Band 11/9 Blue Oyster Cult and Jefferson Starship 11/12 Chicago (SOLD OUT) 11/13 Deepak Chopra 11/14 Ringo Starr and His All Starr Band (SOLD OUT) 11/15: The Beach Boys 11/16 Brain Candy Live!

11/19 The Laurie Berkner Band Holiday Concert

Click for additional events and full schedule and information.

Staff pick

Brain Candy Live!

No, Brain Candy is not a sweet confection for zombies. Brain Candy is described as a two-hour play date with Walt Disney, Willy Wonka and Albert Einstein. Starring Adam Savage of Mythbusters and the internet’s Michael Stevens (vsauce.com), Brain Candy is their secret recipe of fun, surprise and excitement (with just a pinch of danger) to cook-up and deliver a giant batch of magical Brain Candy to every mind in the audience. What’s not to like about that? Brain Candy takes the stage Thursday, November 16 at a special family-friendly 7 pm start time. Click for more information.

A look behind the curtain at Mayo Performing Arts Center

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