A GRAND RE-OPENING
We are opening our doors in October 2021!
Sorrowful days be gone! The time has come to re-light the Chestnut Street marquee and throw open the doors with a feel-good lineup of exciting Academy productions.
When the COVID-19 pandemic first gripped us all last year, the world became undeniably different — shifts reflected in education, the arts, commerce, and in our collective understanding of socialization. The Academy quickly made the necessary changes to continue our mission of entertaining and serving the cultural and educational needs of our community through virtual classes and performances. Though our performance platform was unconventional to say the least -- auditorium seats and live actors traded for couches and screens -- the theatre continued to be a source of celebration and light. Now, prepared to be together again, with guidance from the commonwealth’s leading public health officials, the historic Academy Theatre warmly invites you to its 2021-22 season “On with the Show!”
In October 2021, the Academy plans to dust off the seats and bring up the curtain with ALWAYS PATSY CLINE, starring Brenda Evans and Erie News Now’s Amanda Post, directed by Brenda and Larry Evans. Following our grand re-opening in the fall will be the new Irving Berlin musical HOLIDAY INN, directed by long-time Erie Playhouse director, Almi Clerkin. As far as the remainder of our homecoming season, we are securing plans for Tony Award winner for best musical, AVENUE Q, timeless classic PETER PAN, and a revival of our most recent smash hit, MAMMA MIA! Rounding out our feel-good season will be AN EVENING OF SPIRIT CONNECTIONS, and the hilarious TAMMY PESCATELLI LIVE! It’s time, once again, to find your seats.
Come opening night of Always Patsy Cline, the Academy will have remained dark for 586 days. Over 105 performances lost to this tragic year. But, that was never the end. There is a clear light at the end of this tunnel, and it has glowed since the beginning due to all of the support we’ve had. Board members, corporate sponsors, members, donors, and a community that loves and values the arts have steadfastly supported the Academy, and carried us through to the end. Our strength is born from their loyalty, and we cannot wait to repay them with one of our best seasons yet!
*Tickets will go on sale this summer, further details to follow.