Behind the Scenes Magazine spring/summer 2018

Behind the Scenes

MAGAZINE Spring/Summer 2018

THE HANOVER THEATRE TURNS TEN

Your great-grandchildren will be glad we met.

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Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult their tax advisor gor matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters. Š 2018 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

CRC2042650 03/18 MAR006 12/17 CS 9177435 3/18

Behind the Scenes MAGAZINE Spring/Summer 2018

Dear Reader, The Hanover Theatre turned ten on March 14, 2018. They say time flies when you’re having fun, so we must all be having a complete ball! When you look at what we’ve accomplished, it’s incredible that it has ONLY been ten years!

In my opinion, there are many reasons that make The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts successful, but it all comes back to the people who make the difference, who “Reach for the Stars” and make it happen.

Thank you to our founders, staff, board and volunteers who dedicated and continue to commit years of their lives to build a brighter future for our community through the development and growth of what has become one of the top theatres in the world … right here in Worcester. Thank you to our donors, members and subscribers who give of their time, talent and treasure to support our mission to foster a love and appreciation for the performing arts in audiences of today and tomorrow. Thank you to all of the performers and technicians who give you a reason to come through our doors each season.

Whether you’re a conservatory student, parent, fan through social media or enthusiastic audience member, each one of you plays a part in creating the magic we feel when we come into the theatre. I look forward to our future adventures and sharing the journey with you! I can only imagine what the next ten years will bring.

See you at the theatre,

Lisa K. Condit Director of Marketing & PR PS: We’d love for you to “Share Your Story” about your experience with The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory.

Turn to page 20 to learn more.

Inside Reaching for the Stars.........................................4 Show Calendar and Special Programs.............6 Follow us for a Season of Magic.........................8 More Broadway Hits.............................................10 Subscribe for a Slice of Heaven.........................12 Member Spotlight................................................13 Education News...................................................14 Kennedy Center Recognition.............................15 Youth Summer Programs.....................................15 Sizzling Summer Fun.............................................16 The King and I.......................................................18 Behind the Scenes Stories and Interviews.........20 Logo Contest Winner...........................................22 Connect, Engage, Have More Fun....................22 Grand Opening audience, March 14, 2008. Photo by Tom Rettig.

Reaching for the Stars: Mile 2000

Two friends and local businessmen, Ed Madaus and Paul Demoga, start it all. They see an opportunity to transform an unused building into a destination for touring productions, Broadway shows, concerts and comedians in downtown Worcester.

2008

Bernadette Peters performs at The Hanover Theatre’s Grand Opening on March 14, 2008 following a $32 million renovation and restoration that won the National Trust for Historic Preservation Award. The first annual productions of The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol start a rich tradition of giving back to the community, as well as offering professional performance and technical theatre opportunities.

2009

The Mighty Wurlitzer, New England’s largest theatre pipe organ, makes its debut at The Hanover Theatre in March. During the summer, the first Youth Summer Program kicks off and performs Grease. The Youth Summer Program quickly grows into multiple sessions and later different age groups.

2010

Fans form lines around the block for Neil Young tickets to go on sale before the performance sells out in record time.

2011

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre mesmerizes and amazes audiences with their artistry and athleticism.

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2012 Maya Angelou takes the

stage and inspires audiences with her attitude of gratitude.

Volunteer ushers continue to add festive fun to the experience of seeing a show at the theatre when the touring production of Mary Poppins plays the theatre’s first two-week run.

estones and Highlights 2013

We launch our first Adopt-A-School Program with South High Community School. The partnership between the theatre and the school started years before, with our volunteers donating food and clothing to students in need, as well as the theatre providing cultural enrichment and educational opportunities for students with touring productions.

2014

In addition to hosting a magical evening with singing sensation John Legend, The Hanover Theatre acquires 551 Main Street in order to accommodate the need for a performing arts conservatory, additional special event spaces and office space.

2015

International artist Damien Mitchell completes the first mural commissioned by the Worcester Public Art Working Group (PAWG) as part of its “Make Art Everywhere” campaign on the back wall of The Hanover Theatre. The mural is later featured as part of Pow Wow Worcester, an international mural project. This is just one of the many visible signs that downtown Worcester is becoming a vibrant cultural destination.

2016

The Hanover Theatre Conservatory for the Performing Arts opens for the expansion of the Youth Summer Program and goes on sale with its first semester of classes in acting, dance, singing, design and more.

2017

Ballet Arts Worcester becomes a part of The Hanover Theatre Conservatory to offer an intensive curriculum of dance technique and other programming. On the other end of the spectrum, astrophysicist Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson blows the minds of a packed theatre.

2018

Annual revenue surpasses $10 million! The Hanover Theatre elects its first female to chair its board of directors and lead the Theatre District Campaign.

Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory • Spring/Summer 2018

Share the Joy of Broad Apr 17 Apr 18 & 21 Apr 19 Apr 21 Apr 22 Apr 25 Apr 26 Apr 28 Apr 29 May 1 May 5 & 9 May 5 May 6

May 10 May 11 May 15-20 June 13 June 14 June 16 July 13 July 27-28 Aug 3 Aug 11 Aug 17-18 September Sept 21 Oct 3 Oct 27 Nov 8-11 Nov 17 Nov 23-25 Nov 23 Nov 29-Dec 2 Dec 7 Dec 14-23 January Jan 2-6 Jan 31-Feb 3 Mar 27-31 Apr 11-14 May 22-26

Engelbert Humperdinck, The Prodigal Son Tour v Historic and Architectural Tour of The Hanover Theatre sponsored by FLEXcon Newsboys United Tour v Che Malambo v New Worlds: Bill Murray, Jan Vogler and Friends. An Evening of Music, Poetry & Prose.

Paw Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure v Free event. Tenth Anniversary Broadway Preview Party. (see page 11) 4th Annual Worcester County Dance Festival Capitol Steps: Orange is the New Barack v The Piano Guys v Historic and Architectural Tour of The Hanover Theatre sponsored by FLEXcon Rockin’ Road to Dublin v A Collection of Laurel and Hardy Silent Short Films accompanied by Clark Wilson on The Mighty Wurlitzer Organ v Girls Night: The Musical v Peppa Pig Live! Peppa Pig’s Surprise sponsored by Amica Insurance The King and I sponsored by Webster Five «v Historic and Architectural Tour of the theatre sponsored by FLEXcon Late Nite Catechism v Johnny Mathis The Voice of Romance Tour 2018 Jazz at Sunset with Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Cha’s v Youth Summer Program presents Beauty and the Beast v Jazz at Sunset with James Montgomery Band v Youth Summer Program presents Beauty and the Beast, Jr. v Youth Summer Program presents Beauty and the Beast v Fall semester of conservatory classes begin The Temptations and The Four Tops v Pink Martini v Decades Rewind v The Wizard of Oz v«v Kansas v The Nutcracker vv Black Friday Open House and Sale ELF The Musical v« v Holiday Boston Pops sponsored by Hanover Insurance Group vv A Christmas Carol v«v Winter semester of conservatory classes begin Finding Neverland v« v The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical v«v On Your Feet! v« v Tap Dogs v«v Waitress v«v

We offer great deals on group tickets to almost every one of our shows, call 508.471.1763 for group sales assistance.

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dway, Music & More . . .

“I absolutely love The Hanover Theatre and bringing people to all of the shows. I’m proud to support it and joining the All Access Club has been a great experience for me personally and professionally. Everyone likes the VIP treatment, and both the quality and variety of concerts, touring productions and comedians is incredible.”

-Steve Buchalter, Enterprise Cleaning Corporation

All Access Club

This is your season pass to the ultimate theatre experience, plus membership in the exclusive Franklin Square Society, our VIP club.

Contact Diane at 508.930.2424 for more information about this exciting opportunity to fully engage with The Hanover Theatre.

April 22 New Worlds: Bill Murray, Jan Vogler and Friends Enjoy a spirited evening of music, poetry and prose with two masters of their art. New Worlds blends the works of composers like Johann Sebastian Bach with that of authors such as Mark Twain.

Murray will perform several tunes, including Stephen Foster’s “Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair” and a West Side Story medley.

v Broadway Subscribers & Member Discounts

Tickets to these shows may not be on sale yet to the public.

Subscription details start on page 8. Did you know that our subscribers and members receive discounts and early access to tickets for most shows? To find out how members make the difference, contact Veronica at 508.471.1772.

v 20 Shows for $20

Are you a student, or just entering the “real world” and willing to be flexible about your seating? Choose three or more shows from over 20 performances for just $20 each. Better yet, participants could receive a seat upgrade! Please note that this offer is only valid on opening nights for shows with multiple performances. Visit TheHanoverTheatre.org or call Veronica at 508.471.1772 for info. Supported by Bank of America.

«

ASL and Audio Description services are available at select performances. Every show at the theatre is wheelchair accessible. Options may be limited, so be sure to ask about them when you purchase your tickets so we may accommodate your request in advance.

Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory • Spring/Summer 2018

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Follow us for a Broadway Se adventure and toe

November 29-December 2 ELF The Musical is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy’s enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. This modern day Christmas classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner ELF.

November 8-11 “A delight!” -The Washington Times This beloved tale, in which a Kansas farm girl travels over the rainbow to discover the magical power of home, has been entertaining audiences for generations. The Wizard of Oz includes the songs “Over The Rainbow,” “Munchkinland (Ding Dong! The Witch Is Dead),” “If I Only Had A Brain/A Heart/The Nerve,” “We’re Off To See The Wizard (Follow The Yellow Brick Road),” “The Jitterbug” and “The Merry Old Land of Oz” and “If I Were King Of The Forest.” It’s a faithful adaptation of the film recreating the dialogue and structure of the MGM classic nearly scene for scene, for live stage performance.

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TheHanoverTheatre.org • 877.571.SHOW(7469)

The New York Times says that ELF is “SPLASHY, PEPPY, SUGAR-SPRINKLED HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT!” USA Today calls ELF, “ENDEARINGLY GOOFY!” Variety proclaims, “ELF is happy enough for families, savvy enough for city kids and plenty smart for adults!”

eries full of magic, award-winning hits, e-tapping fun to share with everyone.

January 2-6 “Far and away the best musical of the year!” -NPR The winner of Broadway.com’s Audience Choice Award for Best Musical, this breathtaking smash “captures the kid-at-heart,” says TIME Magazine.

Vogue cheers, “It’s a must-see you’ll remember for years to come!” Directed by visionary Tony®-winner Diane Paulus and based on the critically-acclaimed Academy Award® winning film, Finding Neverland tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother.

Spellbound by the boys’ enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers. With a little bit of pixie dust and a lot of faith, Barrie takes this monumental leap, leaving his old world behind for Neverland, where nothing is impossible and the wonder of childhood lasts forever. The magic of Barrie’s classic tale springs spectacularly to life in this heartwarming theatrical event.

January 31-February 3 “Worthy of the Gods!” -Time Out New York A “winning adaptation” (The Hollywood Reporter) of the best-selling Disney-Hyperion novel by Rick Riordan, The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is “electrifying!”

(Newsday). The Greek gods are real, and they’re ruining Percy Jackson’s life. As a son of Poseidon, Percy has newly discovered powers he can’t control, monsters on his trail and is on an epic quest to find Zeus’s lightning bolt to prevent a war between the gods. Nominated for three Drama Desk Awards including Best Musical, The Lightning Thief is “mesmerizing” and proves “lightning can strike twice!”

(TheaterMania).

Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory • Spring/Summer 2018

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March 27-31, 2019 From their humble beginnings in Cuba, Emilio and Gloria Estefan came to America and broke through all barriers to become a crossover sensation at the very top of the pop music world. But just when they thought they had it all, they almost lost everything.

On Your Feet! takes you behind the music and inside the real story of this record-making and groundbreaking couple who, in the face of adversity, found a way to end up on their feet.

Directed by two-time Tony Award® winner Jerry Mitchell (Kinky Boots), with choreography by Olivier Award winner Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys) and an original book by Academy Award® winner Alexander Dinelaris (Birdman), On Your Feet! features some of the most iconic songs of the past quarter-century…and one of the most inspiring stories in music history.

April 11-14, 2019 15 INTERNATIONAL AWARDS 1 GLOBAL DANCE SENSATION 12 MILLION TICKET BUYERS CAN’T BE WRONG Hot off an international tour, the global dance sensation Tap Dogs hits the road on a tour of jaw dropping new surprises. Experience the thrill of a revitalized genre of dance. Seventy-five action packed minutes of part theatre, part dance, part rock concert and part construction site. An adrenaline pumped cast turns traditional tap dancing upside down and into the ultimate night out.

Tap Dogs premiered at the Sydney Theatre Festival and success quickly followed with seasons in London, New York, Tokyo, Paris, Berlin, Shanghai and around the world. Tap Dogs was created by Oliver Award-winning choreographer Dein Perry, originally directed by Nigel Triffitt, with music by Andrew Wilkie and lighting by Gavin Norris.

Tap Dogs is set to electrify the stage as they jump through scaffolding, tap upside down, grind steel and tap on water in Worcester.

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May 22-26, 2019 “The women of Waitress are changing Broadway!” -Time Magazine.

Brought to life by a groundbreaking all-female creative team, this irresistible new hit features original music and lyrics by 6-time Grammy® nominee Sara Bareilles (“Brave,” “Love Song”), book by acclaimed screenwriter Jessie Nelson (I Am Sam), choreography by Lorin Latarro (Les Dangereuse Liasons, Waiting for Godot) and direction by Tony Award® winner Diane Paulus (Hair, Pippin, Finding Neverland).

“It’s an empowering musical of the highest order!” raves the Chicago Tribune. Inspired

by Adrienne Shelly’s beloved film, Waitress tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, who dreams of a way out of her small town and loveless marriage. A baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s new doctor may offer Jenna a chance at a fresh start, while her fellow waitresses offer their own recipes for happiness. But Jenna must summon the strength and courage to rebuild her own life. “Waitress is a little slice of heaven!” says Entertainment Weekly and “a monumental contribution to Broadway!” according to Marie Claire. Don’t miss this uplifting musical celebrating friendship, motherhood and the magic of a well-made pie.

The Hanover Theatre’s Tenth Anniversary Broadway Preview Party Join us Thursday, April 26 • 5:30-7pm Enter to win fabulous prizes « Learn about subscriber benefits Enjoy complimentary tastings from our gourmet partners

RSVP online by April 20 TheHanoverTheatre.org/PreviewParty (space is limited to this free, fun event) Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory • Spring/Summer 2018

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Subscribe for a slice of heaven . . .

. . . perfect to share!

Charity Angel Dawson, Desi Oakley and Lenne Klingaman in the national tour of Waitress. Credit Joan Marcus.

New Shows. More Options. Better Benefits.

For our 10th Anniversary Broadway Series, we listened to your feedback and changed a few things that we hope will make you want to get on your feet and conga in the aisles. Get ready for a season not only full of magic and adventure, but more options and better benefits just for subscribers. “…we have Subscribers can now choose a five, six or seven show package for flexibility, the best benefits and guaranteed great seats to distinctly entertaining shows overflowing with laughter, magic, romance and unforgettable stories set to incredible musical scores. Also new this year, we are automatically upgrading all seven show subscribers to a complimentary Patron Level membership ($150 value) to recognize their support and commitment to the theatre.

As always, subscribers are the first to guarantee or improve their seating each year before the Broadway Series goes on sale to anyone else as a part of their complimentary membership. Subscribers also get early access and discounts to over 100 additional performances throughout been having the year, as well as complimentary exchanges into another performance so much fun going of the same show. Plus, only subscribers have access to the best to the theatre. seats within the gold circle and loge For a couple of shows sections.

we even purchased a seat next to ours in order to bring an additional guest.

This subscription package has worked out better than I could have ever imagined.”

By subscribing to the Broadway Series, you not only save big, but can do so stress-free by taking advantage of a payment plan.

Subscribers save up to $124 and student subscribers save up to $189. Don’t want to pay now? No problem. You can defer payments until June 15, 2018.

TheHanoverTheatre.org • 877.571.SHOW(7469)

-Terrence P.

Several of our shows this year are not only great for the kid-at-heart, but also very family-friendly. Subscribers can share the thrill of live theatre and purchase additional seats at the same great, discounted price. No need to travel to Boston or New York City to see the same great shows. We offer easy and affordable parking, as well as special offers from our Gourmet Program restaurant partners to enhance your experience at one of the top theatres in the world, where service and quality are the first priority.

For more information, contact Lilly Irwin, subscription coordinator at lilly@thehanovertheatre.org

Member Spotlight: Fitzpatrick Family Fully Engages

“Exposing your children to the arts is really investing in who they are as a person.”

- Carolyn Fitzpatrick

Owen on stage with Jeremy Lawrence, who plays Scrooge in A Christmas Carol.

Franklin Square Society members Carolyn and Andy Fitzpatrick have been sharing the magic of theater with their two sons since becoming family subscribers to the 2017-2018 Broadway Series.

Finally, Carolyn is quick to add, “We know our kids will remember our Sunday nights out for dinner and a show at The Hanover Theatre. They grow up so fast and they are only really ours for a little while.”

“Seeing live productions at The Hanover Theatre is important to us because it gives our kids the much needed vibrant color to apply to the tapestry of their core learning. Sharing experiences and spending time together is what every parent wants for their children,” Carolyn said.

Don’t miss the opportunity to share all of the exciting things happening at The Hanover Theatre. Become a member or Broadway subscriber to take advantage of the best seats, best value and best benefits.

Experience the best in Broadway tours, dance, concerts and more at one of the top theatres in the world, right here in Worcester.

Twelve year old Owen Fitzpatrick is sharing his experiences as a theatre goer and creative writer by becoming a contributor to The Hanover Theatre blog.

Since becoming a regular visitor to the theatre, Owen has contributed thoughtful blog posts inspired by A Christmas Carol, Something Rotten! and Jersey Boys.

His creative essay “Dear Mr. Dickens” won him top honors in the 2017 Library of Congress “Letters About Literature” contest. Owen’s winning letter to Charles Dickens and other blog posts are on our website at www.thehanovertheatreblog.org

Becoming a member of the Franklin Square Society benefits everyone! You’ll receive exclusive benefits and amenities like free parking and complimentary cocktails in our newly renovated Franklin Square Salon, and thanks to your support, The Hanover Theatre can continue its ten year tradition of bringing outstanding shows and performances to Worcester.

For more information, contact Nel Lazour, director of development, at nel@thehanovertheatre.org.

Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory • Spring/Summer 2018

Education News

Coming Home to The Hanover Theatre When the curtain went up on Jersey Boys in March, the person calling the cues behind the scenes was no stranger to The Hanover Theatre stage. Zachary Tucker started his career as a high school intern on the theatre’s annual production of A Christmas Carol back in 2008 and spent summers working behind the scenes on the Youth Summer Program before moving on to Emerson College and national tours. This time, he returned as stage manager for the national tour of the Broadway blockbuster Jersey Boys.

“Working backstage at The Hanover Theatre as a production assistant on A Christmas Carol showed me that a career in the arts is a challenging, but fulfilling possibility and directly inspired me to pursue theatre professionally,” Tucker said. In addition to Jersey Boys, Zach’s professional credits include the national tours of Pippin and Dirty Dancing. Regionally, he has worked with Huntington Theatre Company, American Repertory Theater and North Shore Music Theater.

because without that head start, I would not be where I am today,” Agis said.

Kevin Thurber, former high school audio intern, went on to earn a B.S. in audio and media production from the New England Institute of Art. According to Thurber, “Having the chance to intern at The Hanover Theatre was literally a life changing event. Being immersed in the world of professional theatre sparked a passion in me for live event production. The experiences I had and the people I worked with gave me the tools I needed to become successful. In this industry there is no way to succeed without on-the-job experience, accelerated learning and opportunities to break into the field right away.”

Thurber is currently the A1/ sound supervisor for the Boston Conservatory at Berklee.

The tradition of offering production assistant opportunities and internships to talented local students Tucker isn’t the only former intern has continued since Tucker’s that has made great strides first internship. Just last since working at the theatre. Ten year, the theatre opened years after we opened, we are its Conservatory for the starting to see more and more of Performing Arts where students Kevin Thurber, Cate Agis and Zach Tucker have a our students take on blockbuster take courses in not only mini reunion during the Jersey Boys run. careers in the performing arts. performance art, but also technical theatre like stage Cate Agis was a high school management, and lighting production assistant on A Christmas Carol as well. As and sound design. Students like Zach, Kevin and Cate she puts it, “Interning at The Hanover Theatre gave inspired us to create these technical theatre offerings me the experience of working on a professional show and we look forward to seeing more students return in a state of the art theatre while still in high school. home with a tour to work here in a professional The skills I learned there made me a more advanced capacity. student in college, which led to interning and working at The American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) in For more information and to get involved Cambridge.” During her time at A.R.T., Agis worked in our internships as well as acting, dance, on Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812, with music and technical theatre classes offered which she later transferred to Broadway. Agis then through The Hanover Theatre Conservatory moved on to become an assistant stage manager on for the Performing Arts, contact Meghan the Broadway revival of Miss Saigon. “I am so thankful Montaner, director of education, at for my time and experience at The Hanover Theatre meghan@thehanovertheatre.org.

TheHanoverTheatre.org • 877.571.SHOW(7469)

The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts Named to Kennedy Center’s Partners in Education Program The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts was one of seven organizations across the country recently selected to participate in the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts’ Partners in Education program, a nationally recognized program designed to help arts organizations develop or expand education partnerships with local school systems. The program will assist in the expansion of The Hanover Theatre’s relationship with Worcester Public Schools (WPS). It is rooted in the belief that supporting the professional learning of teachers is an essential component of promoting the inclusion of arts in education. The theatre is the first venue in Massachusetts to be accepted into this prestigious program.

implement arts integration across the curriculum. “Being able to provide professional development in the area of arts education will extend the reach the arts can play in the lives of children, as well as the community at large, and provide opportunities for understanding the commonalities across cultures that are essential to understanding and thriving in our interconnected Worcester Public School students work with their English world,” said Maureen teacher on an arts integrated lesson. Photos Andrea Seward.

Binienda, superintendent of WPS. The theatre’s director of education, Meghan Montaner, added, “the Kennedy Center Partners in Education program will help us to strengthen our relationship with the WPS teachers and the 25,000 students served in this district. We are confident that this partnership will be instrumental in helping us establish arts-based professional learning that directly addresses student needs and expand upon the work we are already Numerous studies point to the value doing.” Representatives from both of arts education in improving student organizations will participate in the Partners outcomes yet teachers may not have in Education Institute, April 23–26 at the the resources, access or training to Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

Youth Summer Programs Musical Theatre Intensives Dance Sessions Children’s Program (Ages 6-8) Classes June 25-July 6 July-August (schedule varies) Pre-Teen Program (Ages 9-12) July 30-August 11 Limited spots for boys remaining!

Pointe Intensive June-August (Mondays 5–7pm)

Teen Program Ballet Intensive Week Session I: July 11-July 28 SOLD OUT! August 13–17 Session II: July 30-August18 SOLD OUT!

Check out TheHanoverTheatre.org/conservatory for details.

Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory • Spring/Summer 2018

Sizzling Summer Fun: Jazz at Sunset This summer, pack a picnic, grab your friends and head to Jazz at Sunset behind The Hanover Theatre for two unforgettable summer evenings in collaboration with WICN Public Radio and the Theatre District Alliance.

The July 13 concert features Nathan Williams and the Zydeco Cha Cha’s, a group formed in 1985 from southern Louisiana scoring a unique blend of Louisiana Creole history, passion and blues. “Nathan Williams never disappoints,” Grant Britt of No Depression, a roots music journal, comments. “On record and in person, you can always depend on Williams’ rockin’ Zydeco to lift your spirits and move your feet.”

The August 3 concert features the James Montgomery Band, fronted by blues legend James Montgomery who “brings it home” when he plays the harmonica.

Described as the “John Mayall of New England”

by Peter Wolf, James Montgomery has toured with many major artists, including Aerosmith and Bruce Springsteen, and jammed with several others, including B.B. King and Mick Jagger.

Jazz at Sunset attendees enjoy picnics and food trucks at the event. Plan ahead to arrive early! VIP tables are available, but feel free to bring your own chairs for general admission seating.

Pre-show food and fun at the revitalization of Jazz at Sunset 2017. Photo kofi poku.

TheHanoverTheatre.org • 877.571.SHOW(7469)

Save the Dates Nathan Williams and the Zydeco Cha Cha’s Friday, July 13 Rain date: Friday, July 20

James Montgomery Band Friday, August 3 Rain date: Friday, August 10

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Learn more at worcester.edu Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory • Spring/Summer 2018

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s

The King and I Modern Twist on Reviving a Classic

May 15-20 Sponsored by Webster Five The cast of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The King and I. Photo by Matthew Murphy.

Excerpts from an interview with College of the Holy Cross graduate Bartlett Sher (director), Catherine Zuber, (costumes) and Michael Yeargen (sets) about reviving the classic production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The King and I on Broadway.

BS: You have to be very careful. Looking at the research, there’s a kind of powerful reality to the life. It’s not quite so many decorative headdresses. The women actually had very simple hair. The kids would have worn mostly small white shirts. We learned that there is no distinguishing dress between sexes up to the age of twelve. In terms of clothing and space, the Thai have their own history, which stands in juxtaposition to the exotic imagination of the 1950s or the exotic imagination of the 1990s. In this production, we have to try to strike a sparer tone that reflects something truthful about the inner life of the people rather than just putting them in big exotic clothes for a kind of dress parade or a gallery of exoticness. So the spatial relationship to the events of the play is built to create a kind of open clarity and simplicity.

MY: There’s one section of the Royal Palace that no one knows much about, and that I always thought was this big seraglio, like a harem with all these women sitting around, but it wasn’t. The King built specific mansions within this palace. Like a suburb almost, these huge Western-style houses for his wives. It was a whole city.

BS: A complete city of women, with its own guards, its own judges, its own laws. It had almost five thousand people in TheHanoverTheatre.org • 877.571.SHOW(7469)

it, all women, except for the youngest of the boys. The real goal of the entire city within the palace is to protect the royal line of the King. That’s the central issue of Tuptim and the threat of Lun Tha. I don’t think the King really cares one way or another about her. It’s not about love. It’s that in order to maintain power you have to protect the royal line.

The King wasn’t necessarily the most powerful man in the kingdom. The Kralahome, the Prime Minister, was easily as powerful, as he controlled trade, but he wasn’t royal.

CZ: I think we all approached this with a respect for Thai culture and an understanding that it has its own set of rules and traditions. The King is a very complex, interesting man, but not evil. He’s very charming, very open to Western ideas, as demonstrated by the fact that he had Anna come tutor his children.

BS: It’s strange…the more distance you get on the original production, the deeper you can look. It’s odd that history and time give us a chance to learn more about what they were beginning to understand in, say, 1951. So the benefit of a revival is that we can actually not only stand in awe and incredible devotion to what Rodgers and Hammerstein were able to accomplish way ahead of their time, but perhaps pull even more out of the piece than people had ever understood could be there and, at the same time, keep it entertaining and buoyant and beautiful.

Read the full interview transcript on our blog at thehanovertheatreblog.org/behind-scenes-the-king-and-i/.

In a separate on-air interview, Lisa Condit, director of marketing and PR, spoke with the Tony® award winning director of The King and I and Holy Cross alum Bartlett Sher. Hear the full interview on our blog at thehanovertheatreblog.org/behind-scenes-bartlett-sher/ “I very much loved living in Worcester. It’s an extraordinary and beautiful city. I’ve since been all over the country and all over the world directing. The King and I is one of the great musicals in the history of the musical theatre canon, written by Rodgers and Hammerstein. It’s a very special, profound, uplifting, moving, powerful piece of musical theatre. It means a lot to me that the show’s in Worcester. Worcester had a huge impact on my life.

What’s extraordinary about The King and I is that it’s a big show with a huge cast and a full ballet in the middle of it, a huge number of moving pieces. When you’re developing something like that, and you want to do big, epic storytelling, like a 17th century “Game of Thrones” kind of story, set to music, the challenge is really to find something that can delight and open an audience to something they don’t know about. It’s one of the most special things I’ve ever worked on.”

-Bartlett Sher, director of The King and I

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Behind the Scenes at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory • Spring/Summer 2018

Behind the Scenes Stories and Interviews Tune in to WCRN 830AM Saturdays at 1pm to hear interviews with cast and creative teams behind the productions at The Hanover Theatre.

From audition tips and information for annual productions of The Nutcracker, A Christmas Carol and our Youth Summer Program to the latest show announcements, this weekly program provides listeners with a sneak peek and inside scoop on what’s happening at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts.

Share Your Story #hanovertheatre Do you have a special memory or experience that captures how you feel about The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory? Send an email to contests@thehanovertheatre.org or post it on your favorite social media and use #hanovertheatre in your post for your chance to win special monthly prizes. @thehanovertheatre @hanovertheatre @hanovertheatre @thehanovertheatre /hanovertheatre @hanovertheatre

TheHanoverTheatre.org • 877.571.SHOW(7469)

Photos: Jeremy Lawrence as Scrooge & Dr. Felice ©Erb Photography. Clara of The Nutcracker by Mike Nyman.

Visit TheHanoverTheatreBlog.org/interviews/ and enjoy learning more about our new board of directors chair, Dr. Marianne Felice, the amazing world of the Mighty Wurlitzer and tap into conversations with the stars before they come to Worcester.

Your Event Takes Center Stage Host a memorable event at the theatre. Our function spaces can accommodate social or corporate meetings including: • • • • •

fundraisers breakfasts, luncheons, appetizers, buffets, dinners, cocktail parties networking or staff socials donor & client appreciation events weddings, ceremonies, celebrations

For more information contact Mark Steina, special events coordinator, at 508.471.1799 or mark@thehanovertheatre.org

HONOR

GROWTH COMMUNITY

At Worcester Academy, we take our core values to heart and instill them in the future leaders of Behind Scenes at The Hanover and Conservatory • Spring/Summer 2018 tomorrow. To learn moretheabout our values andTheatre philosophy, inquire today at WorcesterAcademy.org.

Congratulations

Engage

In January this winning design for our 10th anniversary logo was chosen out of 20 entires.

There are so many ways you or your business can engage and partner with us: « Sponsor a show « Become a Franklin Square Society member « Invest in our All Access club « Organize a group outing « Advertise « Subscribe to our Broadway Series « Take a class in the conservatory « Host an event in our function spaces

Valerie Yoder is a graphic designer by day, fine artist by night. As a solo act at Val Yoder Design in Philadelphia, Val has been creating marketing materials for clients from California to New England for over 25 years. In her free time, she enjoys intrepid travels, Belgianstyle beer and listening to indie musicians. More at valyoderdesign.com.

Have More Fun Interested in putting a group together for your next theatre excursion?

Connect Connect with us and tag us in your posts to be entered to win great prizes all year round!

We offer great deals on group tickets to almost every one of our shows.

Daniella is happy to help you at 508.471.1763.

Behind the Scenes

Magazine is published twice a year by The Hanover Theatre. All rights reserved. All images, unless otherwise noted, ©The Hanover Theatre.

Editor: Lisa K. Condit Designer: Monica Wagner Elefterion Contributors: Sharon Hart, Lilly Irwin, Hillary Jacobson, Meghan Montaner, Kelly Rourke, Harmony Wheeler Cover image: 10th Anniversary birthday party, March 14, 2018. Photo credit ©Erb Photography.

Plan now to advertise in our upcoming Fall/Winter issue. Contact Diane Pieciak, senior sales manager, at diane@thehanovertheatre.org.

TheHanoverTheatre.org • 877.571.SHOW(7469)

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Discover what’s happening at one of the top theatres in the WORLD . . .

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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.