Last week we mentioned the return of live music and some semblance of normalcy.  

We are pleased to learn that theater venues are moving towards a return to live performances as well, starting this weekend. 

The Community Players in Pawtucket – our state’s oldest community theater – has been celebrating their 100th anniversary season. Recently, Pawtucket’s Mayor Grebian designated May 9, 2021 Community Players Day. This weekend on Saturday, May 15 @ 7:15 pm, the players will return to performing, with a YouTube Live Watch Party and premiere of the virtual production, “Night of January 16th,” a comedy by Ayn Rand.  The production is free but donations are welcome. Learn more

On the other side of the valley, The Assembly Theatre in Burrillville is opening the venue on Sunday, May 16 @ 2 pm for a viewing celebration of the 1970’s musical, “Godspell.”  The production was filmed and produced by a partner group, Inspiration Theatre, using local talent as well as professionals. Some of the scenes were filmed using the space at Assembly Theatre. Learn more.

Stay tuned for Burbage Theatre’s (Pawtucket) spring production of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” as well as a return to outdoor live theater from both Burbage and Mixed Magic coming this summer. 

Stadium Theatre has kept the arts community alive in Woonsocket with live music performances, and they are also hosting several dance productions by local companies like Heritage Ballet and Krylo Dance Studio in June. More Info.

State Ballet of Rhode Island, Lincoln, will also be presenting dance on their new outdoor stage. June 4 – 5. The stage was built in conjunction with the “Take it Outside” state program that began in 2020.

We are glad to see a gradual return to live entertainment for the enjoyment of our residents and visitors to the Blackstone Valley as they contribute greatly to the economic and cultural value of our communities.

Photo Credit:  Mike Scott Photo (Assembly Theater Facebook)