Publickplayhouse season 2014 15 web

Prince George’s

Publick Playhouse for the performing arts 2014–2015 season

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County

Welcome to the 2014-2015 Season The Publick Playhouse is your performing arts center, and this season

is all about you! We’ve listened to your requests and planned a season to fulfill your expectations.

International hip hop icon Rennie Harris Puremovement will turn the stage upside down in October, and Philadanco will make it sizzle in November. In April internationally acclaimed Dallas Black Dance Theatre will return, spinning out a whole new program for their Publick

Playhouse fans. World dance fans will find Maestro KHAN with Sistah Mafalda and The Kuumba Performers here in May.

The Playhouse is known for its excellent acoustics, and we’re turning it blue…Jazz Meets Blues for Black History Month when D.C.’s own globe-trotting blues harp star Phil Wiggins teams up with emerging jazz dynamo Karen Lovejoy. And in June two long-time national blues pros, Lazy Lester and Sleepy LaBeef, put on a powerhouse performance of music sprinkled with laughter.

Midweek Matinees offer exciting new curriculum-relevant programs and performances for youth. Tiny Tots workshops and performances are back, along with the Platinum Series for patrons 60 and better.

This is my 17th and final year at the Publick Playhouse. It has been my pleasure and privilege to be involved in bringing you so many wonderful performances. From Ruby Dee and John Amos to Keter Betts and Martha and the Vandellas; exciting tours like Amazones from Guinea and Lula Washington from Los Angeles; programs we created like the Praise Liturgical Dance Festival, and our Making a Musical Camp each June… the list is way too long to reprise here, but I want to add that this is the 12th season the internationally acclaimed Dallas Black Dance Theatre will be in residence for a week at the Playhouse. I’m proud to have been a part of it all, and I’m grateful for your enthusiasm for the programs we present for you.

Thank you for your support and patronage. The Playhouse staff looks forward to seeing you often this season and in the years to come. There’s lots more excitement ahead!

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—C ­ urlen Lee, Managing Director

Publick Playhouse

for the performing arts

2014–2015 season DANCE

PLAYHOUSE SERIES

Dallas Black Dance Theatre Concerts p. 8 Platinum Live p. 20 Master Class p. 23

Midweek Matinees p. 10

Philadanco!

Concert p. 5 Platinum Live p. 19 Master Class p. 23

contents

Prince George’s

Platinum Senior Series p. 19 Tiny Tots Thursdays p. 17 Weekend Performances p. 4

Auditions p. 21

PRAISE Dance Festival Audition Information p. 21 Concert p. 6

Community Arts p. 22 Exhibitions p. 24 Master Classes p. 23

Rennie Harris Puremovement Concerts p. 4 Midweek Matinee p. 11 Master Class p. 23

Out & About p. 22

Youth IV Praise Audition Information p. 21 Concert p. 6

Friends of the Publick Playhouse p. 26

PLAYHOUSE INFORMATION

contents

OTHER HAPPENINGS

General Information p. 27 Ticket Order Form p. 28

Sons of Freedom p. 9

MUSIC The Chi-Lites and Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes p. 4 Jazz meets Blues: Phil Wiggins and Karen Lovejoy p. 6 Jeff Majors p. 8 Kwanzaa, Kwanzaa p. 5 Lazy Lester and Sleepy LaBeef Concert p. 9 Platinum Live p. 20

treasure

Maestro Khan and Sistah Mafalda & The Kuumba Performers p. 9

Prince George’s Publick Playhouse for the Performing Arts | 1

© Sharen Bradford

calendar September 9 Tue. 9:30 am & 11:15 am /

Tiny Tots Found Drums Workshop p. 17 16 Tue. 11:00 am /

Platinum Movie: 12 Years a Slave p. 19 19 Fri 5:30 pm / Artist Reception: Gina Marie Lewis p. 24 25 Thu. 10:15 am & 12 noon / Curious George p. 10

October 8 Wed. 10:15 am & 12 noon / The Wright Stuff: First in Flight p. 10 11 Sat. 8 pm / The Chi-Lites and Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes p. 4

13 Thu 9:30 am & 11:15 am / Tiny Tots Move to the Beat Workshop p. 17 19 Wed 10:15 am & 12 noon / A Christmas Carol p. 12 21 Fri 10:15 am & 12 noon / We the People p. 12 22 Sat 10 am / Youth IV Praise Auditions p. 21

D ecemb e r 9 Tue 10:15 am & 12 noon / Cricket on the Hearth p. 12 13 Sat 8 pm / Prince George’s Choral Society p. 22 16 Tue 10:15 am & 12 noon / Holiday Tales p. 12 28 Sun 3 pm / Kwanzaa, Kwanzaa p. 5

16 Thu. 9:30 am & 11:15 am / Tangle of Tales p. 17 20 Mon. 10:15 am & 12 noon / Arithmetickles p. 11 23 Thu. 12 noon / Rennie Harris Puremovement: History of Hip-Hop p. 11

JANUARY 15 Thu 9:30 am & 11:15 am / Tiny Tots Making Music Around the World Workshop p. 18

23 Thu. 7 pm / Rennie Harris Puremovement: Hip-Hop Master Class p. 23

18 Sun 10 am / World Dance Showcase Auditions p. 21

24 Fri. 8 pm / Rennie Harris Puremovement p. 4

22 Thu 10:15 am & 12 noon /

25 Sat. 8 pm / Rennie Harris Puremovement p. 4 30 Thu. 10:15 am & 12 noon / The Mixed Up Fairy Tale p. 11

Classroom Character: The Road to Success p. 13 FEBRUARY 3 Tue 10:15 am & 12 noon /

November 6 Thu 7 pm / Philadanco Modern Dance Master Class p. 23 7 Fri 12 noon / Platinum Live: Philadanco p. 19 7 Fri 6:45 pm / Artist Reception: Luis Peralta p. 24 7 Fri 8 pm / Philadanco p. 5 8 Sat 10 am / PRAISE Auditions p. 21

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How a Town Fought Hate p. 13 7 Sat 6:45 pm / Artists Reception: Black Artists of DC p. 25 7 Sat 8 pm / Jazz Meets Blues: Phil Wiggins & Karen Lovejoy p. 6 10 Tue 10:15 am & 12 noon / One Noble Journey p. 14 11 Wed 10:15 am & 12 noon / One Noble Journey p. 14

21 Sat 8 pm / Youth IV Praise p. 6

23 Thu 7:45 pm / Dallas Black Dance

Theatre Master Class Liturgical Dance

p. 23

22 Sun 4 pm / PRAISE Liturgical Dance Festival p. 6

24 Fri 11 am / Platinum Live: Dallas Black Dance Theatre p. 20

26 Thu 10:15 am & 12 noon / Four Score and Seven Years Ago p. 14

24 Fri 8 pm / Dallas Black Dance Theatre p. 8

MARCH nce Teen Showcase

25 Sat 8 pm / Dallas Black Dance Theatre p. 8

6 Fri 7 pm / Café Groove p. 7 8 Sun 4 pm / Love 2 Dance p. 7

26 Sun 4 pm / Dallas Black Dance Theater p. 8

12 Thu 9:30 am & 11:15 am / Tiny Tots Body Percussion Workshop p. 18

May

14 Sat 8 pm / Prince George’s Choral Society p. 24 17 Tue 11 am / Platinum Movie:

Peeples p. 20 20 Fri 10:15 am & 12 noon / Berenstain Bears LIVE! p. 15 28 Sat 8 pm / World Dance Showcase p. 7 29 Sun 4 pm / Jeff Majors p. 8 31 Tue 10:15 am & 12 noon /

Slimbodyology: Fantastic You p. 15 April 16 Thu 9:30 am & 11:15 am / Salsa Cinderella p. 18 23 Thu 11 am / Platinum Live: Dallas Black Dance Theatre p. 20 23 Thu 6 pm / Dallas Black Dance Theatre Master Class Modern Dance p. 23

6 Wed 10:15 am & 12 noon / Our Earth, What a Gas! p. 16 9 Sat 6:45 pm / Artist Reception Patrick Delaney p. 25 9 Sat 8 pm / Maestro Khan with Sistah

Mafalda & Kuumba Performers p. 9 12 Tue 10:15 am & 12 noon / Dog Loves Books p. 16 17 Sun 4 pm / Sons of Freedom p. 9

J un e 19 Fri 2 pm / Platinum Live: Lazy Lester and Sleepy LaBeef p. 20 19 Fri 8 pm / Lazy Lester and Sleepy LaBeef p. 9

Información en Español: 301-699-2255(CALL)

Prince George’sPublick PublickPlayhouse Playhousefor forthe thePerforming Performing Arts Arts || 33 Prince George’s

2014-2015 calendar

17 Tue 10:15 am & 12 noon / Coretta Scott King and the Fight for Freedom p. 14

weekend performances The Chi-Lites and Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes The new season kicks off with R&B Hall of Fame legends as Marshall Thompson leads Chicago’s musical icons in top 10 hits including “Oh Girl” and “Are You My Woman,” on a double bill with Philly’s R&B stars. The legendary Blue Notes’ Platinum recording sound is led

by Lloyd Parks, the last remaining original member. So “Wake Up Everybody” and reserve tickets now for a performance that will have you “Crazy in Love” again with these R&B megastars. All tickets include a post-concert “Meet & Greet” with the stars.

Tickets: $50/person; $40/seniors, students, and groups of 20 or more 4 | 2014-2015 Season

Friday, October 24, 8 pm & Saturday, October 25, 8 pm

Rennie Harris Puremovement

For more than twenty years, the recognized king of hip-hop Rennie Harris Puremovement has performed to capacity audiences in theatres in the U.S. and abroad, presenting hip-hop in works that display the rich cultural traditions of the genre, serve as a voice for a new generation, and crumble negative stereotypes. Experience the dazzling virtuosity and vibrant athleticism of this celebrated dance company as they dance to Marvin Gaye, Nina Simone, Parliament Funkadelics, Groove Collective, and present the first part of a new trilogy, “Something to do with Love.”

Tickets before October 1: $15/person; Tickets on or after October 1: $20/person; $10/Prince George’s County Youth

© brian mengini

Saturday, October 11, 8 pm

Friday, November 7, 8 pm

Philadanco With a leaping legacy of breaking barriers and building cultural bridges through eye-popping choreography, the term ‘smokin’ defines Philadanco.

One of the featured works in the performance is “Bamm!” which says it all. Don’t miss this powerhouse performance by the acclaimed dance company that invigorates the stage and electrifies the audience.

weekend performances

marvel

with African music, traditional tales, dance, and drumming. Join us for a heartwarming, interactive family performance by Sankofa Dance Theater that embraces the proud shared culture of African Americans.

Tickets: $20/person; $15/seniors, students and groups of 20 or more

Sunday, December 28, 3 pm

Kwanzaa, Kwanzaa This joyous program celebrates heritage, family and community. The symbols of Kwanzaa are enhanced Prince George’s Publick Playhouse for the Performing Arts | 5

© Lois greenfield

Tickets before October 1: $25/person Tickets on or after October 1: $30/ person; $25/seniors, students, groups of 20 or more

Saturday, February 21, 8 pm

Youth IV Praise We’re pleased to introduce a new Playhouse program featuring talented young dancers inspired by liturgical traditions. Look forward to being charmed and impressed by this showcase of new praise talent.

(Audition information page 21) Tickets: $10/person; $8/students; $5/children age 6 and under Saturday, February 7, 8 pm

Jazz Meets Blues: Phil Wiggins and Karen Lovejoy

Sunday, February 22, 4 pm

Phil Wiggins brings his incredible talent to the Playhouse for an evening of sublime blues backed by the Chesapeake Sheiks. A Smithsonian Folkways blues recording artist with echoes of gospel and jazz, Wiggins says he has “performed on every continent except Antarctica.” Silky, funky, and smooth Karen Lovejoy performs lively and imaginative renditions of jazz standards, energetic blues and lively Latin rhythms, with instrumental pros The Lovejoy Group. Wiggins and Lovejoy connect with the audience in a way that shouts for more.

The annual dance festival presents top liturgical dance companies from area studios and dance ministries. Inspiring and colorful, this in-demand program showcases the depth of praise dance talent in the metropolitan area.

(Audition information page 21)

Tickets: $25/person; $20 seniors, students, groups of 20 or more

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PRAISE Liturgical Dance Festival

Tickets: $25/person; $20 students, seniors and groups of 20 or more

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Café Groove Heavy on hip-hop, hot teen dance teams compete before a panel of celebrity judges for trophies, cash prizes, and the title of Prince George’s “Best Area Dance Crew.” It’s scorching, fast, and fly, so come out and cheer for your favorite dance team. (Want to compete? To sign up, dancers age 13-18 should contact Chelsea Mitchell-Reynolds at 301-446-3244.) Tickets: $3/person Sunday, March 8, 4 pm

Love 2 Dance Teen Showcase Outstanding young dancers from Prince George’s County high schools and dance studios perform jazz, hip-hop, ballet, modern, and world dance. Bring the family to see these teens twirl, spin, and leap across the stage in a terrific and uplifting program showing the depth of young talent in our community.

Tickets: $10 person; $5/students, seniors, and groups of 20 or more

Saturday, March 28, 8 pm

World Dance Showcase One of the enriching benefits of living in greater Washington, D.C. is the fabulous diversity of our community. The world beats a path to our doorstep, bringing historic and colorful customs, traditions, and folk arts. This popular annual event showcases wide-ranging dance traditions performed with a swirl of vivid costumes. (Audition information page 21)

weekend performances

Friday, March 6, 7 pm

Tickets: $15/person; $10/students, seniors, and groups of 20 or more (Purchase World Dance Showcase together with Maestro Khan tickets for a $5 adult discount. Two-event ticket: $30)

dance

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Music Awards. He brings his groundbreaking and unique harp sound to the Playhouse for a special Palm Sunday concert. Majors’ mellow style mixes gospel, soul, and jazz traditions for an uplifiting performance.

Tickets: $25/person; $20/seniors, students and groups of 20 or more (add $10 to ticket purchase for autographed CD) Friday, April 24, 8 pm, Saturday, April 25, 8 pm & Sunday, April 26, 4 pm

Dallas Black Dance Theatre

Sunday, March 29, 4 pm

Jeff Majors Former D.C. radio and TV gospel host Jeff Majors is a musician of national renown. A dream at age 15 inspired him to start playing the harp and launched a musical career that has been featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show and named him Outstanding Gospel Instrumentalist at the Gospel Truth Magazine

The Playhouse is proud to present an annual residency with the internationally famous Dallas Black Dance Theatre. The dance concert performances present a new repertory for the Playhouse audience, with an exciting blend of modern, jazz, ethnic, and spiritual works by famous choreographers in a program of incredible energy, flashing color, and emotional intensity. “Charismatic stage presence…left the audience hungry for more” —richmond times dispatch; “Appealing high energy performance” —new york times; “Toward the end of the evening, even I felt compelled to dance” —front row blog Tickets: $25/person; $20/seniors, students, and groups of 20 or more © sharen bradford

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Maestro Khan and Sistah Mafalda & The Kuumba Performers Ustad Shafaat Khan may be the only musician who can simultaneously boast a musical legacy dating back to the 16th century, a headline performance at Bonnaroo with Stevie Wonder, and CDs produced by famed wellness guru Deepak Chopra. Acclaimed for his prodigious skills in Indian classical music and fusing East and West grooves, he is a master of sitar, surbahar and tabla. Sistah Mafalda adds an energetic blend of African, Caribbean and American dance and drum traditions, and Kuumba Performers from age 5–18 showcase their kuumba (“creativity” in Swahili), led by the award-winning teacher and performer Mafalda T. Bouzy.

Tickets: $20/person (Purchase World Dance Showcase together with Maestro Khan tickets for a $5 adult discount. Two-event ticket: $30) Sunday, May 17, 4 pm

Sons of Freedom Sons of Freedom Dance Institute in Capitol Heights began in 2011 to make a difference for boys age 7–13 through the arts, life skills, teamwork, and self-empowerment. Directed

by Brian Harris, the boys train in ballet, modern, jazz, hip-hop, and tap techniques, bridging the gap between arts education and academic achievement to gain the tools necessary to become leaders and performing artists of the future. The company was featured at the International Association for Blacks in Dance Conference.

weekend performances

Saturday, May 9, 8 pm

Tickets: $15/person; $10/seniors, students and groups of 20 or more; $5/children 10 and under Friday, June 19, 8 pm

Lazy Lester and Sleepy LaBeef Blues, Blues, and more Blues! Octogenarian and Hall of Famer Lazy Lester has been performing since he was a teen. His distinctive voice, harmonica and guitar created a long list of hits on the Excello label, including “I Hear You Knockin’,” “The Same Thing Could Happen to You” and many more. He’s played and toured with most every big name on the blues scene, and played Radio City Music Hall as part of Martin Scorsese’s Year of the Blues super concert, that followed with the “Lightning in a Bottle” documentary featuring him. Guitar blues and rockabilly virtuoso Sleepy LaBeef is on film too, in the recent Nashville documentary “Sleepy LaBeef Rides Again.” This performance is a rare opportunity to see two seasoned pros at their best, and Lazy’s famous humor adds a sprinkle of laughter.

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Tickets: $25/person; $20/seniors; $15/person in groups of 20 or more Prince George’s Publick Playhouse for the Performing Arts | 9

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midweek

matinees

The Playhouse presents entertaining, educational performances for the enrichment of area students. Teacher guides are available for most programs, and productions run 45–60 minutes to fit field trip schedules. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Everyone, regardless of age, must have a ticket. Advanced reservations are strongly encouraged. For reservations, call 301-277-1710; TTY 301-277-0312.

The GEICO Gecko Series is generously supported by the GEICO Philanthropic Foundation, providing free tickets to Prince George’s Title 1 Schools on a first-request basis.

Thursday, September 25, 10:15 am & 12 noon

Curious George TheatreWorks USA brings a great new musical starring everyone’s favorite storybook monkey. Curious George’s inquisitive, attention getting stunts make their mark in Rome, where he helps a chef win the Golden Meatball Contest.

Recommended for Grades pre-K–3.

Curriculum Connections: literature, relationships, family and music Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more Wednesday, October 8, 10:15 am & 12 noon

The Wright Stuff: First in Flight Theatre IV of Richmond presents the amazing true story of two young brothers, barely out of their teens, who use their bicycle shop to do what generations of scientists only dreamed of —invent the airplane. The Wright brothers and their studious sister proved that determination and hard work can change the world forever. “Teachers loved it, students loved it…

This is just exactly what we want to present, with kids leaving our theatre wanting to invest more in the subject matter.”

—the grand opera house, oshkosh, wi Recommended for Grades 3-8 Curriculum Connections: science, math, American history, and relationships

dream

Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more

10 | 2014-2015 Season

GEICO Gecko Series / Arithmetickles Children’s Theatre Center of New Jersey presents a unique, interactive performance that takes math out of the textbook and into everyday life. Fast-paced comedy, mime and theatrical effects combine with creative number games and problem solving that make multiplication, division, fractions and geometry exciting and fun.

“The students were laughing so hard, they didn’t seem to notice they were learning.”

—westfield news, massachusetts Recommended for Grades 3-5 Curriculum Connections: math, problem solving and theatre arts Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more; FREE to Prince George’s Title 1 Schools Thursday, October 23, 12 noon

Rennie Harris Puremovement: History of Hip-Hop Moderated by principals from Rennie Harris Puremovement, the lecture/demonstration illustrates hip-hop roots in African tradition and culture throughout the Diasporas and includes not only African American, but also Afro-Brazilian, Afro-Cuban and Puerto Rican cultures, and how ancient traditions affect contemporary influences.

The program includes a question and answer session with mengini the audience. Recommended for Grades 3 and up brian © Curriculum Connections: ancient and contemporary history, social studies, multi-cultural traditions, music, dance Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more Thursday, October 30, 10:15 am & 12 noon

Page Turner Adventures: The Mixed Up Fairy Tale The Emmy Award-winning comedy story theatre sparks children’s imagination, curiosity and laughter. Everyone in the audience becomes the main character, solving clues and participating in the storytelling experience. Recommended for Grades K-3 Curriculum Connections: literature, music and theatre arts Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more

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Midweek Matinees

Monday, October 20, 10:15 am & 12 noon

Wednesday, November 19, 10:15 am & 12 noon

A Christmas Carol Ushering in the holiday season, Charles Dickens’ classic story is presented in a beautiful musical version by TheatreWorks USA. Cheer along as the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future turn Scrooge’s “Humbug” into generosity. Recommended for all ages Curriculum Connections: communications, language arts, literary classic, music, relationships and family Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more Friday, November 21, 10:15 am & 12 noon

GEICO Gecko Series / We the People Just as the national election season heats up, TheatreWorks USA puts an energizing spin on the workings of democracy with a new, upbeat musical that presents the three branches of government, the First Amendment, the judicial process, presidential elections and more with a sizzling rock, R&B and hip-hop beat. “Funny, fresh, and inspired! Young audiences discover what democracy can be when it functions as it’s meant to.” —the new york times Recommended for Grades 4-8 Curriculum Connections: American history, music, civics and law Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more; FREE to Prince George’s Title 1 Schools Tuesday, December 9, 10:15 am & 12 noon

Cricket on the Hearth This classic story was Charles Dickens’ most popular holiday tale in 19th century London. Theatre IV’s new musical shows how lucky it is to have a cricket on the hearth watching over things, especially if you’re a poor and kindly toymaker with a beautiful blind daughter, a curmudgeonly boss, and a mysterious stranger as a houseguest. Recommended for Grades K-5 Curriculum Connections: language arts, literary classic, music, reading, character development, history, and family Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more Tuesday, December 16, 10:15 am & 12 noon

GEICO Gecko Series / Holiday Tales A sparkling multi-cultural collection full of holiday legends, the program includes Gift of the Magi, The Nutcracker, Kwanzaa Kite, and Soul of a Menorah. Performed by the Emmy nominated Pushcart Players, at the heart of each story are gifts of love, kindness, compassion and generosity. This program will warm your heart with the genuine spirit of the season. Recommended for Grades K-8 Curriculum Connections: literature classics, language arts, music, dance, and theatre arts

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Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more; FREE to Prince George’s Title 1 Schools

Tuesday, January 22, 10:15 am & 12 noon

GEICO Gecko Series / Classroom Character: The Road to Success With a fun and wacky blend of magic, comedy and total audience involvement, Choosy Suzy and YouDini the Genie give kids a powerful path to stop name-calling and bullying. Challenging the audience members to think about how they treat each other, this entertaining and thought provoking program shows how students working together can make a school a Bully Free Zone. “This excellent show promotes anti-bullying like none I’ve ever seen!”

—bush elementary, london, ky Recommended for Grades K-3 Curriculum Connections: language arts, relationships, character development and social issues.

Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more; FREE to Prince George’s Title 1 Schools Tuesday, February 3, 10:15 & 12 noon

How a Town Fought Hate Catskill Puppet Theatre and Young Audiences of New Jersey team up to tell the true story of an American town overcoming hate groups. Based on the award-winning children’s book “The Christmas Menorahs,” and underscored by original music, beautiful large puppets depict the struggle of Billings, Montana during the 1993 holiday season, when the community defeated the local bullies threatening their minority neighbors.

Recommended for Grades K-5 Curriculum Connections: anti-bullying, history, social studies, literature, character building, theatre arts Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more

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Midweek Matinees

grow

illustrated and donated by Kent Barton

Tuesday, February 10, 10:15 am & 12 noon and Wednesday, February 11, 10:15 am & 12 noon

One Noble Journey

Henry “Box” Brown was an African American born into slavery in 1816 Virginia. As a child, his family was torn apart. The same thing happened again years later, when Brown’s wife and children were wrenched away. That devastation was his breaking point, spurring him on to devise an ingenious plan to escape the fierce oppression of slavery. Sealed in a wooden box, he shipped himself to friends and freedom in Philadelphia. This engrossing drama

by Mike Wiley Productions of North Carolina epitomizes the courage, creativity, and resourcefulness people can find within themselves. Recommended for Grades 3 and up Curriculum Connections: American history, social studies, language arts, theatre arts Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more Tuesday, February 17, 10:15 am & 12 noon

GEICO Gecko Series / Coretta Scott King and the Fight for Freedom The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s Art Reach presents a drama with music about the life of the woman beside Dr. Martin Luther King. Born in Alabama, Coretta Scott King overcame childhood racism and adversity in the segregated South. A talented singer, she graduated from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. As Dr. King’s wife, the “First Lady of the Civil Rights Movement” often used her singing voice to inspire people to act. After Dr. King’s 1968 assassination, she took on a major leadership role in the movement. An author, public speaker, singer, and activist, she inspired the nation and the world. Recommended for Grades 3-8 Curriculum Connections: American history, social studies, civics and politics, music, language arts and self-esteem Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more; FREE to Prince George’s Title 1 Schools Thursday, February 26, 10:15 am & 12 noon

Four Score and Seven Years Ago Lemuel has escaped slavery in Georgia and finds a new life in Gettysburg, but his ideas about the North and the South are challenged when he unexpectedly befriends Jacob, a young Confederate soldier. Understanding and empathy combat racial prejudice when these young men realize that fighting back is not the path to peaceful resolution, and that each has much to teach each other about bravery and loyalty. Gary Blackman, ArtsPower’s producer, says “By encouraging young people to see history through the eyes of characters who endured and succeeded despite facing tremendous adversity, children are able to see new possibilities in their own lives.”

Recommended for Grades 3-8 Curriculum Connections: American history, relationships, language arts, music Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more

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Friday, March 20, 10:15 am & 12 noon

GEICO Gecko Series / Berenstain Bears LIVE! Following their hit off-Broadway run in New York, everyone’s favorite bear family arrives at the Playhouse to sing and dance through a life full of complications. Based on the award-winning book series, Brother Bear’s grades are slipping, Sister Bear still has a few things to learn about making new friends, and Papa Bear just can’t stop eating junk food. But we can always depend on Mama Bear and her loving patience to help set things right. “A fantastic experience for kids!” —ny theatre.com Recommended for Grades Pre-K-2 Curriculum Connections: literature, theatre arts, language arts, social studies, health and physical education, relationships Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more; FREE to Prince George’s Title 1 Schools Tuesday, March 31, 10:15 am & 12 noon

GEICO Gecko Series / Slim Bodyology: FANTASTIC YOU Nationally renowned Slim Goodbody performs an amazing health and body musical that introduces children to the Heart-the greatest pump in the world; Brain-body control center; Lungs-the breath of life; Bones & Muscles-the team that hustles; Senses-the sensational five; and Digestive System— the energy factor. Song, dance and lots of audience participation highlight the importance of nutrition, fitness, hygiene, and a positive self-image. “Great program for our curriculum, everything we study in our Body Unit.”

—meadowland elementary, sandusky, ohio Recommended for Grades K-5 Curriculum Connections: science, health, nutrition, fundamentals of anatomy, fitness, hygiene Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more; FREE to Prince George’s Title 1 Schools

Prince George’s Publick Playhouse for the Performing Arts | 15

Midweek Matinees

cheer

Midweek Matinees

Wednesday, May 6, 10:15 am & 12 noon

Our Earth, What a Gas! The Grand Falloons use their former career with the Big Apple Circus to examine the bubble of our atmosphere, what we need to survive in it, and the carbon/oxygen/hydrogen exchange between plant and animal kingdoms.

Circus skills, Vaudeville routines, and song and dance numbers engage the audience in how litter, pollution, and other wasted resources threaten life. The program represents a collaboration with several museums and other non-profit organizations to produce an entertaining program based on earth science curriculum standards for public schools. Dishing up intriguing facts with laughter and fun, the Grand Falloons help start their young audiences on a life-long journey of awareness of our limited resources and the part everyone plays in keeping nature’s balance.

Recommended for Grade K-6 Curriculum Connections: earth science, health, biology, recycling, theatre arts Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more Tuesday, May 12, 10:15 am & 12 noon

GEICO Gecko Series / Dog Loves Books Based on The New York Times best-selling children’s book, ArtsPower’s new musical is about the irresistible dog who loves books so much that he decides to open his own bookstore. At first, no customers come to his store, but Dog decides that he’s not alone if he’s surrounded by books, and he begins to read everything in his store. When customers finally arrive, he knows exactly which books to recommend. The delightful performance celebrates the power of imagination, encourages self-expression, and helps ignite the desire to read. Recommended for Grades K-2 Curriculum Connections: literature, language arts, reading, music Tickets: $8/person; $6/person in groups of 20 or more; FREE to Prince George’s Title 1 Schools

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Tuesday, September 9, 9:30 am & 11:15 am

Found Drums Workshop Almost anything can be transformed into a percussion instrument. Bring a small pot or pan from home to get the most from this workshop taught by instructors from the award-winning Cultural Academy for Excellence (CAFÉ Youth).

Space is limited, reserve early for this popular program.

Recommended for Grades pre-K-2 Tickets: $5/students and observers

tiny tots Thursdays

Tiny Tots Thursdays

Thursday, October 16, 9:30 Am & 11:15 am

Tangle of Tales Grey Seal Puppets presents three classic children’s stories with a tangle of zany vaudeville-like characters who bring toddlers laughter and surprises before, after, and between each tale.

The Frog Prince teaches children about keeping promises, The Three Billy Goats Gruff cleverly outsmart the troll, and The Three Little Pigs demonstrate the value of hard work in a performance to enchant and delight young audiences. Recommended for Pre-K-2 Tickets: $5/person Thursday, November 13, 9:30 am & 11:15 am

Move to the Beat Workshop

Children sway, swing, and step to the beat as instructors from CAFÉ Youth lead them in basic movement and dance techniques specially tailored for small children. Space is limited, reserve early for this popular program.

Recommended for Grades pre-K-2

create

Tickets: $5/students and observers

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tiny tots Thursdays

Thursday, January 15, 9:30 am & 11:15 am

Making Music Around the World Workshop Students learn about and play a collection of musical instruments from North America, South America, the Caribbean, Africa, Europe, and Asia. All instruments are provided in this class taught by instructors from CAFÉ Youth. Reserve early, space is limited and fills quickly.

Recommended for Pre-K-2 Tickets: $5/students and observers Thursday, March 12, 9:30 am & 11:15 am

Body Percussion Workshop Having fun combines with enhancing children’s fine and gross motor skills and coordination, led by teachers from CAFÉ Youth. This journey of creativity has kids finding music on themselves, as they express their creativity through improvisation and composition using the sounds that their body can make like stomping, clapping, and snapping fingers. Reserve early, space is limited and fills quickly.

Recommended for Pre-K-2 Tickets: $5/students and observers Thursday, April 16, 9:30 am & 11:15 am

Salsa Cinderella The classic tale is presented with whimsy, beautiful puppets, and a Latin twist. Grey Seal Puppets goes south of the border to have Cinderella dance to a salsa beat, as the pungent Onion and Garlic Stepsisters try to keep the Pepper Prince from finding his true love. Kids learn about Latin foods and pick up some Spanish words while delighting in this ageless story of dreams coming true.

Recommended for Pre-K-2 Tickets: $5/person

18 | 2014-2015 Season

relish

Platinum senior series

platinum senior series Tuesday, September 16, 11 am

Platinum Movie / 12 Years a Slave (2013) The 2014 Oscar and Golden Globe winner for Best Motion Picture is the true story of Solomon Northup, a freed black man from upstate New York who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in Louisiana. Dramatic and emotional, the gripping film illustrates the tragic extremes of life in the mid-1800s, and how a brave and determined man survived to regain his freedom.

For ages 60 and better; FREE Friday, November 7, 12 noon

Platinum Live / Philadanco!

© Lois greenfield

The famed Philadelphia Dance Company performs a fast-paced dance concert for seniors. This one-hour matinee features modern dance selections that are new to Playhouse patrons and guaranteed to mesmerize the audience with the troupe’s beauty, energy and excitement. For ages 60 and better Tickets: $10/person; $8/person in groups of 20 or more

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Platinum senior series

Tuesday, March 17, 11 am

Platinum Movie / Peeples (2013) Sparks fly when Wade Walker crashes the Peeples’ annual reunion in the Hamptons to ask for their precious daughter Grace’s hand in marriage. Starring Craig Robinson, Kerry Washington, David Alan Grier, with Diahann Carroll as Nana.

For ages 60 and better; FREE

Thursday, April 23, 11 am and Friday, April 24, 11 am

Platinum Live / Dallas Black Dance Theatre Incredible Dallas Black is back with a whole new program of modern, jazz, and spiritual dance by celebrated choreographers planned just for Playhouse seniors.

“Fully engaged in an extremely athletic series of stomping, jumping, running and leaping, the energy in this ensemble was contagious.”

—front row blog “Congratulations for a job well done!”

—harlem world “Appealing high energy performance” — new york times Don’t miss it!

For ages 60 and better Tickets: $10/person; $8/person in groups of 20 or more Friday, June 19, 2 pm

Lazy Lester & Sleepy LaBeef Blues, Blues, and more Blues! Octogenarian and Hall of Famer Lazy Lester has been performing since he was a teen. His distinctive voice, harmonica and guitar created a long list of hits. He’s played and toured with most every big name on the blues scene and he’s featured in Martin Scorsese’s “Lightning in a Bottle” documentary. Guitar blues and rockabilly virtuoso Sleepy is on film too, in the recent Nashville documentary “Sleepy LaBeef Rides Again.” This performance is a rare opportunity to see two seasoned blues artists, and Lazy’s legendary humor sprinkles the program with laughter.

For ages 60 and better Tickets: $15/senior; $10/person in groups of 20 or more

20 | 2014-2015 Season

Auditions Saturday, November 8, 10 am – 3 pm

PRAISE Liturgical dance companies are invited to audition for the annual PRAISE Liturgical Dance Festival held at the Playhouse every February. The 2015 performance will be held on Sunday, February 22, at 4 pm. Companies are asked to bring a CD of the music, and to perform one complete work in costume. Pre-registration is required.

Call 301-277-1710, TTY 301-277-0312.

Application deadline: Friday, October 31, 5 pm Saturday, November 22, 10 am – 3 pm

Youth IV Praise Youth Dance Companies/Ministries are encouraged to audition for the first Youth IV Praise Liturgical Dance Concert. The performance will be held on Saturday, February 21 at 8 pm.

Bring a CD of the music, and perform one complete work in costume. Participating youth must be age 10–15 by application deadline date.

Pre-registration is required. Call 301-277-1710, TTY 301-277-0312.

Application deadline: Friday, November 14, 5 pm Sunday, January 18, 10 am – 6 pm

Annual World Dance Showcase Dance companies are invited to audition traditional work in any culture-specific dance style.

Work must not exceed 15 minutes in length and must be auditioned in finished form with costumes. Six dance groups will be selected to perform in concert on Saturday, March 28 at 8 pm.

Selected groups will receive an honorarium of $500.

Auditions are by appointment only and open to performers 16 years and older. Apply online at arts.pgparks.com/Community_Arts_ Services/Artist_Resources.htm or call 301-446-3232, TTY 301-446-6802.

Application deadline is Friday, January 9, 5 pm

reach

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Community Arts Saturday, December 13, 8 pm

Prince George’s Choral Society: A Festive Christmas The Prince George’s Choral Society begins their 52nd Season with a performance that includes a portion of Handel’s Messiah and popular holiday songs, concluding with a traditional Christmas carol sing-a-long. The event also includes a silent auction held in the lobby.

Tickets: $12/person; $10/seniors and students Saturday, March 14, 8 pm

Prince George’s Choral Society: Broadway ’n Beatles The Choral Society spring performance features songs from “My Fair Lady,” “Phantom of the Opera,” “Carmen” and other Broadway favorites, and tenor soloist Jed Duvall sings Beatles’ hits backed by the full chorus.

Tickets: $12/person; $10/seniors and students

Friends of the Publick Playhouse Sponsors

out & about

Thanks to support from Friends of the Publick Playhouse, the theatre continues to step out in the community, bringing the performing arts to where you might least expect them. Always, these short programs will be free, intended to delight and inspire Prince George’s County residents of all ages.

As part of “Out and About,” Friends of the Publick Playhouse sponsorship will also bring selected performances to schools in the Bladensburg-Riverdale area, presenting the magic of live performing arts to children unable to come to the theatre.

Pre-scheduled outreach appearances will be updated on the Publick Playhouse web pages found at arts.pgparks.com. Other events will be orchestrated random acts of culture, with our appearance coming as a surprise.

The photo at left is from a Publick Playhouse surprise flash mob choreographed by Tuluv Maria Price, with dancers from area schools and studios, performed at National Harbor in April 2013.

22 | 2014-2015 Season

Master Classes

leap Thursday, October 23, 7– 8:30 pm

Rennie Harris Puremovement: Hip-Hop This class for experienced dancers will include exercises to develop muscle strength, flexibility and stamina. Basic movement and techniques are defined, practiced and developed into combinations, with hip-hop popping, locking, stepping, break, house and other styles explored as sources for inspiration and vocabulary for choreography with challenging, invigorating and uplifting driving rhythms. Ages 13 & up Tickets: $15/person; $10/Prince George’s County Youth; $8/observers

Thursday, November 6, 7– 8:30 pm © brian mengini

Philadanco: Modern Dance Advanced and intermediate dance students are encouraged to take advantage of this rare opportunity to train for an evening with one of the most distinguished modern dance companies in the country. Space is limited, early reservations are strongly recommended.

Tickets: $20/person; $15/person if purchased with ticket to November 7 performance; $10/observers Thursday, April 23, 6 –7:30 pm

Dallas Black Dance Theatre: Modern Dance For advanced dance students, members of the renowned company teach aspects of the modern dance techniques, style and choreography for which Dallas Black Dance is celebrated.

Reserve space early, space is limited and fills up quickly.

Tickets: $20/person; $15/person if purchased with ticket to DBDT weekend performance; $10/observers Thursday, April 23, 7:45–9:15 pm

Dallas Black Dance Theatre: Liturgical Dance For advanced students of liturgical dance, professionals from the internationally acclaimed Dallas Black Dance Theatre coach technique and style in this popular annual master class. Early reservations strongly recommended, space is limited and fills up quickly.

Tickets: $20/person; $15/person if purchased with ticket to DBDT weekend performance; $10/observers

Space in each of these classes is limited; early reservations are recommended.

Call 301-277-1710 to reserve space.

Prince George’s Publick Playhouse for the Performing Arts | 23

Exhibitions

Gina Marie Lewis August 15, 2014 through October 13, 2014 Artist Reception: Friday, September 19, 5:30 pm Working in many different materials, including paint, plaster, paper and mylar, Gina Marie Lewis creates two- and threedimensional painted constructions, exploring notions of created, interrupted, and fragmented space. Her work depends upon minimal relationships among the elements, and Lewis seeks to advance an open approach to art that allows the answers to “what is next,” to develop through the process of creating the work.

Lewis earned her BFA from Howard University and has been living and working in the DC area for 15 years.

Luis Peralta October 14, 2014 through January 5, 2015 Artist Reception: Friday, November 7, 6:45 pm

Roberto Clemente

Born in Nicaragua, Luis Peralta moved to the U.S. at age 5 and began painting murals at age 13. Studying at Bell Multicultural High and Corcoran College, his style merges graffiti art with both surreal and traditional concepts and techniques. His current work, the Freedom Series, blends iconic American symbols of democracy into a representation of the freedom that we are able to achieve and reminds the viewer that freedom is in all of us. We must work toward releasing and maintaining it. Freedom is not static but dynamic, a continuous process.

savor 24 | 2014-2015 Season

Black Artists of DC January 6, 2015 through March 13, 2015 Artist Reception: Saturday, February 7, 6:45 pm Established in 1999, Black Artists of DC is comprised of artists at all stages of development. The work spans all media, subject matter, and style. Membership is inclusive of age, gender and ethnicity.

The links between the artists is their African descent, love of art, a commitment to people, and an intuitive understanding that there can be a profoundly nurturing bond between artists of African descent throughout the Diaspora.

Patrick Delaney: Art Ascending March 16, 2015 through June 30, 2015 Artist Reception: Saturday, May 9, 6:45 pm Allowing the mind to actively travel each time the eye confronts a piece of his work, Patrick A. Delaney is not a slave to the medium or method, mixing acrylic with ink or marker with drawing pen.

His work conveys an innate sense of continuous motion, evoking both physical and emotional reactions to his work. As Delaney puts it, “It’s almost as if I am taking shallow breaths and suddenly I get a burst of fresh sea air. It invigorates my whole body, but in particular, it invigorates my mind.“

Lynda Payton July 1, 2015 through October 13, 2015 Artist Reception TBA An artist who creates work in her own trademarked medium, “trans photo digital artistry™, Lynda Payton’s abstract portraiture and graphic works employ traditional photographic media paired with layered digital files of photograph captures; vector art or 3D rendered imagery. Payton feels that an artist’s responsibility is to be a mirror for the society; her work provokes viewers to draw from their memories a place, time, or moment within which they can connect. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Payton lives and resides in Maryland.

Kirk Whalum (top) and Najee (bottom) from The Smooth Jazz Pictorials Collection

For information on purchasing or exhibiting art at the Publick Playhouse, contact La’Tasha Banks, 301-446-3242 or LaTasha.Banks@pgparks.com

Prince George’s Publick Playhouse for the Performing Arts | 25

Friends of the Publick Playhouse The Friends organization has promoted and supported the Playhouse since its inception.

This season, they are sponsoring the new Out & About series that takes the Playhouse into the community with musical salons, flash mobs and more. The Prince George’s Publick Playhouse is the cultural center of our area, and thanks to our Friends, we’re able to be more involved in the community than ever before.

Marcia E. Porterfield, President L. Christina Coles Waddler, Vice President Nancy Percentie, Treasurer Carol Rahbar, Secretary

Dorothy Carroll Constance Gasch Leon Harvey Jeannye Thorton Hencke Marion Hoffman Veronica Moss

Anna Nicknadavich Marjorie E. Perdue Hon. Sarah C. Potter Robbins Richard Robbins Roney Shawe

To become a Friend, please clip and enclose this form with your contribution made

payable to Friends of the Publick Playhouse, and mail to: Publick Playhouse, 5445 Landover Rd, Cheverly, MD 20784 Thank you for your support!

Membership Recognition Levels

MEMBER: $10–$24.99 FRIEND: $25–$49.99 CONTRIBUTOR: $50–$99.99 PROMOTER: $100–$199.99

SUSTAINING LIFETIME MEMBER: $1,000 or more Lifetime Member names will be engraved on a plaque located in the theatre lobby

BENEFACTOR: $200 or more I want to become a member of Friends of the Publick Playhouse.

My check for $____________ is enclosed.

Please contact me,

❑ I want to volunteer at the theatre. ❑ I want to display Publick Playhouse brochures where I work.

Name (please print) Address city E-mail

STATE

zip

Home Telephone

Work Telephone

For more information about Friends activities and membership opportunities, please contact the theatre at 301-277-1710, TTY 301-277-0312 26 | 2014-2015 Season

Information & Directions The theatre was designed in the 1940s

by John Everson, one of the first architects to create “environmental theatres” as elegant destinations for audiences. Although the ceiling no longer features an ornate, star-filled sky, and additional renovations were undertaken in 1984 and 2006, the original art deco theme has been preserved.

The building opened in 1947 as the Cheverly Theatre, a stylish movie theatre with plush seating for 900 and one of the first places in the area with air conditioning. The Cheverly was the flagship of the Sidney Lust chain of movie houses. In the late 1960s, the theatre fell into decline and closed.

In 1975, The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission acquired the property and began an extensive restoration. In 1977, the Publick Playhouse opened as a cultural resource offering an annual season of top quality theatre, music and dance for all ages.

Theatre Hours: Administrative offices are open Monday–Friday, 8:30 am–5 pm.

Box Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 10 am–5 pm and two hours before every performance.

People of all ages must have a ticket, including children on parents’ laps. A $25 fee will be assessed for returned checks. A $3 handling fee will be added to credit card orders.

Accessibility: The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the

participation of individuals with disabilities. Register at least a minimum of two weeks in advance of the program start date to request and receive a disability accommodation.

Renting the Playhouse: For information about renting the theatre visit arts.pgparks.com

or call 301-277-1710 / TTY 301-277-0312. A rental brochure is also available.

Location: 5445 Landover Road (Route 202), Cheverly, MD 20784 at the intersection with

Route 450. Or take F1, F8, F2 or T18 Metro Bus to the theatre; (connect to F2 Metro Bus from Cheverly Metro Station, or ride T18 Metro Bus from the New Carrollton Metro Station.)

Free attended parking at the theatre during performances, and the parking lot has recently expanded to accommodate more patrons.

Driving Directions:

From Maryland, take I-495 to the Baltimore/Washington Parkway South, exit at “Cheverly, Route 202” and turn right on Route 202. The theatre is 1/2 mile on the left.

From Washington, DC or Virginia, take New York Avenue or I-295 to the Baltimore/Washington Parkway and exit on Route 202. Turn left on Route 202. The theatre is 1/2 mile on the left. Parking behind and beside the theatre is free.

Contact: Phone 301-277-1710; TTY 301-277-0312; Fax 301-277-8816; arts.pgparks.com To get email updates about special events, programs, and performances, please contact

the Box Office.

Prince George’s Publick Playhouse for the Performing Arts | 27

Publick Playhouse Ticket Order Form Name Address city E-mail

STATE

zip

q To get email updates about special events, programs and performances please check this box.

Home Telephone

Work Telephone

MY SELECTIONS Show Title

Date

Time

Tkt Type

# Tkts

$ Each

$ Subtotal

1) 2) 3) Total for tickets $ ___________ For credit card orders, add $3 handling fee $ ___________ TOTAL ORDER $ ___________ Payment Enclosed q Check $___________ Check #___________ Make checks payable to: M-NCPPC Charge this to my: q Visa

Account Number

q MasterCard

Amount $___________

Expiration date

Security code

Cardholder Signature

Mail to: Publick Playhouse, 5445 Landover Road, Cheverly, MD 20784 Fax to: 301-277-8816 To order by phone: 301-277-1710 for credit card orders or group sales

Please contact the theatre a minimum of two weeks in advance of the event date to request and receive a disability accommodation.

Join us for Prince George’s

Publick Playhouse for the performing arts 2014–2015 season

soar © Lois greenfield

Cover photo: © Sharen Bradford

Prince George’s County Public Schools is not sponsoring, endorsing, or recommending the activities announced in this material/flyer.

The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities.

Register at least a minimum of two weeks in advance of the program start date to request and receive a disability accommodation. PPC-PR-ACHD 9/14

The GEICO Gecko Series has been generously supported by the GEICO Philanthropic Foundation

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission is supported by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council, an agency dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive.

Prince George’s Publick Playhouse for the Performing Arts is a facility of The Maryland- National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Department of Parks & Recreation, Prince George’s County, Arts and Cultural Heritage Division.

5445 Landover Road, Cheverly, MD 20784 301-277-1710; TTY 301-277-0312 http://arts.pgparks.com

imagine

Riverdale, MD Permit #1083

PAID

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