Page 22 - LRCC June 2022 Focus

Wharton Center for Performing Arts

“We want to be able to look at the whole community and fire is unstoppable, and her triumph is unlike any other. Tina
say we would like you here,” said Brand. “We want to make – The Tina Turner Musical arrives at Wharton Center in April;
sure that the inside of the Arts Center is reflective of all then, in June, Jesus Christ Superstar returns, celebrating
the different people that live here and we are going to its 50th anniversary with a mesmerizing new production
get there.” that is uniquely fresh and inspiring. Add to the mix a
special event with Blue Man Group and an extended run
THE 40TH SEASON AND AUDIENCES of the Broadway sensation Wicked. Long before Dorothy
ARE BACK arrives, another young woman is born with emerald-green
skin — smart, fiery, misunderstood and possessing an
The effect of pandemic-related safety concerns held extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde
audience levels down when Wharton first returned to who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into
in-person performances last fall. However, audiences the unlikeliest of friendships … until the world decides to
were back to near capacity by the time Hamilton hit the call one “good,” and the other, “wicked.”
Wharton stage in March, Brand expects audiences to
return to pre-Covid levels this fall. Wharton Center’s 40th anniversary season also includes
sensory-friendly performances. These events provide
“We are thrilled to be back and celebrating such a major supportive and welcoming environments for families with
milestone anniversary,” says Brand. “For 40 years, we children with Autism sensory disorders and other sensory
have engaged, educated, and uplifted each other by sensitivities. Audiences will also be able to engage in
experiencing the performing arts. It’s my final season at popular Insight Previews and After Chats for many of this
Wharton Center, and I’m proud to continue the tradition year’s performances.
of engaging some of the most remarkable performers
available. Four Broadway musicals are making their The milestone season occurs after Wharton successfully
Wharton Center debut this season, along with the return managed to navigate the challenges brought on by the
of Wicked and Jesus Christ Superstar. Soweto Gospel COVID pandemic. Current audience levels are back up
Choir makes their return as well; alongside the debut to 60-70% of capacity. Brand is grateful for all the donors
of one of the finest musical ensembles in the world, who have continued to financially support Wharton
the Scottish Chamber Orchestra with violinist Nicola during COVID even though many people have been
Benedetti; Tony Award® winner Brian Stokes Mitchell; reluctant to return to in person performances. The
Alonzo King LINES Ballet; The Second City, and a new Wharton team developed a program to stream a number
National Geographic Live series. It’s an incredible season of artists into people’s homes which will continue in the
which I know our audiences will love!” fall. Brand says Wharton is in good financial condition
with an endowment and substantial reserve funds. He
The Broadway at Wharton Center Series, supported by thinks the outstanding 40th anniversary season is just
MSU Federal Credit Union, begins in December with Pretty the ticket the community needs.
Woman: The Musical. Based on Hollywood’s most beloved
romantic stories, starring Broadway superstar and Tony “The community really stepped up during Covid, and
Award® nominee, Adam Pascal as Edward Lewis and rising even though we couldn’t be active in of presenting
star Olivia Valli as the charming and charismatic Vivian programming,” said Brand. “We are grateful and
Ward; January 2023 brings the music of Alanis Morissette proud that our community saw us as such a valuable asset
in Jagged Little Pill. Some shows you see, this show you that they supported us during the two-year lockdown. It
feel! Speaking of amazing music, Tina Turner is one of the speaks well of this community that they appreciate the
best-selling artists of all time. Her voice is undeniable, her Wharton Center’s asset and what it means to the region.” l

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