Willy Wonka, Jr.

The timeless tale of the world-famous candy man comes to life in this musical adaptation by our Youtheatre, featuring 72 performers playing your favorite characters and singing songs in a show that overflows with music, comedy and heart!  Click Here for more information and to purchase tickets online. Pictured are Frank Smrcka (Charlie) and Eddie Baxter (Willy Wonka)

January 9-11, 16-18 

Composer Lyricist Concert

From the composer and lyricist of Wicked comes an evening of magical music including Godspell, Pippin, Children of Eden, Pocahontas, Hunchback of Notre Dame, Enchanted and more.  Featured performers include Karen Brennan, Charles Corritore, Joe Greulich, Casey Kilroy, Kate Murosky, Patrick Thiem, Rich Tryzbiak and Colleen Zandbergen.  The concert will be hosted by Playhouse marketing director, Sue Lechner, with musical direction by Eric Smrcka.

January 12 & 13 at 7:30pm.  Tickets are available at the door.

Cats is coming!!

The musical sensation Cats comes to the Erie Playhouse stage in a not-to-be-missed production. Featuring many Playhouse veterans and newcomers, Cats promises to deliver what audiences love - great music, great dancing and spectacular voices. Among the featured performers are John Burton (Old Deuteronomy) and Trisha Yates (Grisabella). Cats is under the direction of Richard Davis. Click here to purchase tickets.

January 29-Feb. 1, 4-8, 12-15

From the Executive Director

Dear EP Family,

Happy 2009!

The Erie Playhouse kicked off the new year with a gala concert and champagne reception on New Year’s Eve. Over 350 of you joined over 100 singers and musicians for the celebration. Musical highlights of the past 25 years on West 10th street were the main entertainment of the evening. However, we did have one surprise up our sleeves!

All of you know the EP Business Manager, Charlie Corritore. The 2008-2009 season marks Charlie’s 35th year on staff at the Erie Playhouse. He now has the great distinction of being the longest tenured employee of the theatre in our 92-year history!

Charlie’s friends and fellow employees sang a light-hearted tribute written by Bob Martin. Charlie’s family joined him on stage, including his son and daughter-in-law, Justin and Kristen Corritore, Justin’s mom - Crystal Corritore, Charlie’s four grandchildren - Casey, Ella, Hailey and Michael - and his brother and sister-in-law Lee and Janet Corritore. Sue Lechner presented Charlie with a gift certificate to J & J Travel and Shawn Clerkin read a moving sentiment from David Matthews. Finally, singing "Look To Your Heart" from the Erie Playhouse original production of Jane Eyre (1998), written by Charlie, David Matthews, and Michael Malthaner, was Rich Tryzbiak, accompanied by Michael Malthaner.

The Erie Playhouse is beyond grateful for Charlie’s dedication to our community theatre. Whether working on over 250 shows – acting, dancing, directing, choreographing, etc. – or talking with thousands of patrons on the phone every season, Charlie is the true embodiment and spirit of the Erie Playhouse.

David Matthews’ New Year’s Eve message to Charlie:

From the moment I met Charles Corritore, I knew the Playhouse would be a better place with him a part of it.

He is a man of impeccable taste, unbelievable generosity, a kind heart, a great artistic vision and a limitless soul.

If the Erie Playhouse is to be thought of  as a crown jewel of the Erie art scene, then with no arguments, Charlie is the biggest diamond in that crown.

With love,
David!

See you at the Theatre!

Almi

DID YOU KNOW…The Erie Playhouse has three major projects in the works for 2009? Look for more information soon about our Art in Education Outreach Programs (February-May), the Marquee/Façade Renovations (March-May), and a ten-day visit with our theatre friends from the Dramatic Club of Dungarvan, Ireland (October). We look forward to your participation in all the excitement at your Erie Playhouse.
 

Bowling with the Erie Playhouse Stars

Food, fun and prizes are waiting at Eastway Lanes on Sunday, February 8 when you join the Erie Playhouse family for "Bowling with the Erie Playhouse Stars!" Teams registering by Feb. 2 will receive a $10 discount.  Click here for more information and to register.  There will be two bowling sessions: 12:30 - 3:30 and 6:00-9:00.

Yellowstone Park Tour 2009

Join Steve and Melanie Ropski on their annual trek to Yellowstone Park July 28 - August 4.  Their leader fees will be donated to the Erie Playhouse. For more information on the trip click here.

Wish List for 2009

1. Used electric stove in good working order.

2. Box truck that is in good condition and could pass inspection.