Images courtesy Prima theatre
I have never considered myself a “theatre person.” In fact, I just had to Google whether or not there is a difference between “theater” and “theatre.” In case you’re curious, according to Google there isn’t much of a difference other than “theater” is the more popular spelling in American English, and “theatre” is internationally utilized. So, this past winter when I had the opportunity to attend a theatrical performance, my expectations and excitement levels were less than skyrocketing. But when I arrived to my first PRiMA Theatre performance and I ran right into the bar, I thought maybe I didn’t know much about the performing arts at all. Rather than the snooze-fest I imagined, I experienced a fun, dynamic and creative performance which inspired me to learn more about the local theatre scene.
“Theatre doesnt have to be stuffy and boring,” explains Mitch Nugent, executive producer of PRiMA.
PRiMA is a non-profit production organization that was created in 2010 by a group of passionate theatre professionals. “Our aim is to invigorate peoples lives and be a part of enriching Lancasters cultural vitality through fresh theatrics. We offer a twist on the expected experience. There are great outlets for entertainment in Lancaster. If youre looking for something fresh, PRiMA is worth a try,” says Nugent.
Ray Hilton, a local theatre professional and the lead in PRiMA’s Big Fish production, has performed all over the country and really appreciates what PRiMA brings to the stage. “PRiMA is diverse in what it offers. At most other theatres you know what youre coming to see, whether that be a season of cabarets or strictly book shows,” says Hilton. “Each season at PRiMA can be very different from the previous year, infusing various styles of entertainment, including both cabarets and book shows as well as unique opportunities like our recent master class and concert with Stephen Schwartz. PRiMA doesn’t just offer a product, but an experience that reflects and inspires the artistic richness of the the Lancaster community.”
During my first PRiMA experience, I was in awe of the wonderful talent that I witnessed, although in hindsight, I shouldn’t have been surprised. “The talent in PRiMA is a mix of who is in the Susquehanna Valley naturally, but also people who are consistently moving here,” explains Nugent. “Lancaster is in a good spot for easy travel to the bigger cities. Lancasters [abundance] of theatres keeps the flock of creative people growing here. It also helps the talent who grow up here get professional experience and solid training. Creative people land here in the Susquehanna Valley for a plethora of reasons, but often I see great talent sticking around because its a beautiful place to live with enough artistic opportunities to thrive. Were glad to be an exciting flavor on the ‘things to do’ menu!”
Hilton, originally from Texas, also gives a lot of the theatre scene’s credit to the local community. “I was very surprised at the quality and quantity of arts in this area, and not just with performing arts,” explains Hilton.
One of the ways that the community supports the arts is through the Youth Experience Initiative (YEI), which helps young locals learn about the local theatre scene. YEI gives students and their families across the local school districts the opportunity to experience PRiMA performances at subsidized or no cost, inspiring them in such a way that can change the trajectory of their lives.
So, whether you think some of us are crazy for not yet indulging Lancaster’s awesome theatre scene or you’re a newbie like me, there’s still a chance for you to see the three remaining PRiMA performances in 2016.
Big Fish is coming to the Willow Valley Communities Cultural Center on September 23, September 25 and October 2. This is a heartwarming family musical based on the major motion picture directed by Tim Burton. Hilton plays the lead character, Edward Bloom, and tells a story all about fatherhood, heroism and life lived in full bloom. “Edward is a fantastic character to play because everything he does—his job, the people he meets, his whole outlook on life—is about telling a great story,” says Hilton. “Im very thankful for the opportunity to bring Edward to the PRiMA stage. As an actor and a father, its a role Ive wanted to step into for a while, and now, having that privilege, Im grateful to be doing so with a fantastic cast and group of people. Sharing the stage with all this great talent makes my job a little easier. The show is tons of fun, and I cant wait to share this experience with the community.”
The last two PRiMA performances of the year are Presidential Playlist and Adam Pascal. Presidential Playlist comes to 26 East in November, so get ready for an over-the-top, hilarious, cabaret-style experience featuring the most entertaining and theatrical business, politics. Adam Pascal, Broadway’s most famous rock tenor, is coming to the Ephrata Main Theatre in December for an exciting solo concert and public master class. For more information on performances and to purchase tickets visit primatheatre.org.
