BROADVIEW HEIGHTS, Ohio -- Broadview Heights’ Spotlights Theater is proud to announce the opening of its new theater addition with this year’s youth production, The Who’s “Tommy.”
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. Thursday, June 20, just prior to the show. Mayor Sam Alai, Service Director Dave Schroedel, Economic Director Kristina Sorensen and Spotlights Education Director Tim Anderson will join the theater Board of Trustees for this long-awaited opening ceremony.
There will be an hors d’oeuvres reception sponsored by The Locker Room in the lobby immediately following the ribbon cutting. All are welcome to attend the ceremony and reception.
The theater addition has been a collaborative effort between the city and Spotlights Theater. The building is 3,200 square feet and has 12-foot-high ceilings and storage on both ends. It is a “black-box” venue, meaning that the stage and seating will move to different locations within the building depending upon the needs of the particular show.
The addition is able to seat about 175 people, although most shows will require only 90 to 100 seats.
The existing theater will continue to be used for smaller productions requiring half that many seats.
For inquiries about sponsorships, including naming rights, contact Spotlights Vice President of Growth and Development Ryan Bergeron at rbergeron@broadview-heights-spotlights.org.
The Who’s “Tommy” is based on the band’s iconic 1969 rock concept album. This musical is an exhilarating story of hope, healing and the human spirit. The story of the pinball-playing, deaf, dumb and blind boy who triumphs over his adversities has inspired, amazed and puzzled audiences. The Who’s album celebrates its 50th anniversary in this year.
This show contains themes and language that are recommended only for a mature audience.
The Spotlights cast of 19 talented teenagers includes Dylan Grosh-Hoy as the title character, Delia Brennan as Mrs. Walker and James Newton as Captain Walker. The principal cast also features Nick Beiser (Cousin Kevin), Cole Tartantowski (Uncle Ernie), Zoe Douglas (Gypsy) and Molly Molina (Sally Simpson). The featured ensemble includes Abbey Brinkhoff, Clorise Busch, Nicholas DeAngelis, Josh Goodman, Lydia Greer, Mckenna Hassel, Olivia Krafcik, Celie Ostroski, Kassie Schill, Garret Travers, Luke Underation, and Alexa Warmuth.
Spotlights Education Director Tim Anderson is directing his 13th Spotlights’ Youth Production.
“The excitement in the first couple of rehearsals has been tangible. This is a ridiculously talented group of kids -- a nice mix of returning veterans and eager newcomers. We’re going to do our best to christen the new space ... and possibly blow its roof off,” says Anderson.
He is once again collaborating with his longtime production team members Ryan Bergeron, music director, and Maggie Majercik, choreographer. Karen Johnston and Amy McSweeney serve as producers.
The show runs June 20-30. Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances are at 7 p.m.; Sunday matinees begin at 3 p.m.
Tickets are $17 for adults and $14 for seniors and students.
For the past several years, the Spotlights’ Summer Youth Productions have sold out their entire runs before opening night. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made online at www.broadview-heights-spotlights.org.
Fab food: The Brecksville Human Services Center announces its annual “Taste of Brecksville! A Night of Savory Samplings,” where you’ll enjoy delicacies from local eateries.
The big event is from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 20, at the Human Services Center, 2 Community Drive in Brecksville.
Many area restaurants and food emporiums will be there with their savory samples, including Angie’s Pizza & Catering, Bruegger’s Bagels, Coco Bella Grille, Cake and Candy Center, Corbo’s Bakery, The County Line Saloon, Courtyard Café, Creekside Restaurant & Bar, East of Chicago Pizza, Heinen’s, Honey Hut Ice Cream, Joe Maxx Coffee Shop, London Pickle Works, Simon’s Restaurant & Delicatessen, Stancato’s Italian Restaurant, Starbucks and more.
Bring your bidding spirit, too, because in addition to the delicious food, there will be an array of attractive raffle baskets to win and take home.
Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Advance sale tickets can be purchased at the Human Services Center and the Community Center, or online at webtrac.brecksville.oh.us.
For more information, call the center at 440-526-2499.
Proceeds from the “Taste of Brecksville” event benefit the Brecksville Honor Tree Association, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The “tree,” which is on the wall in The Gathering Room at the Brecksville Human Services Center, honors residents who have contributed to Brecksville’s legacy. Their names are imprinted on one of the leaves of the tree.
A leaf can be purchased for $250, which is tax deductible. The funds are in turn used to help residents, primarily seniors, who have encountered an untenable financial situation and need a significant helping hand.
Let the Brecksville, Broadview Heights and North Royalton communities know what is going on with your organization, church, school, business or family. Email me at shirleymac48@att.net.
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