Proctors, Capital Repertory Theatre announce subscription series at surprise party

Monday night, in a surprise party for patrons old and new, Proctors and Capital Repertory Theatre once again revealed exciting new series, with special subscription packages linking the two venues in Schenectady and Albany.

Among the revelations at the annual party was that “Hamilton” will be a part of the 2018–2019 Broadway series at Proctors, and that 2017–2018 subscribers at both theatres will have the chance to be first in line for tickets.

The Broadway-style show, hosted in part by NEWS10 anchors John Gray and Lydia Kulbida, entertained a full house of invited subscribers, members, group leaders, sponsors and supporters, while unwrapping a bright slate of classics, revivals, hot properties and world premieres.

Over the past few years, Proctors has become an important destination for Broadway shows readying for the road. The 2017–2018 Key Private Bank Broadway Series at Proctors will continue that tradition with the Tony Award®-winning revival of “The Color Purple,” which will tech in Schenectady before dazzling the rest of the country. As with recent titles “An American in Paris” and “Something Rotten!” Proctors subscribers will savor the opportunity to see “The Color Purple” on tour before any other audience in America.

Proctors subscription series, packed with the best award-winning shows available, continues with 2015 Tony Award winning Best Musical “Fun Home,” “Finding Neverland,” “The Bodyguard,” “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s The King and I” and “On Your Feet!”

And subscribers will have exclusive priority access to tickets for a week-long engagement of the eternal blockbuster “Les Misérables,” which will play Proctors in February 2018 as a non-subscription show.

The Subscription Series at Capital Repertory Theatre kicks off with an intimate production of another Broadway smash, “Mamma Mia!” And, due to the success of the inaugural 2016-2017 twinned series at Proctors and theREP, the latter’s subscribers will see Stephen Karam’s Tony Award-winning Best Play “The Humans” at Proctors in Schenectady as part of their package.

Also on the Capital Repertory Theatre slate: “Sex with Strangers,” NEXT ACT! New Play Summit 6, “She Loves Me,” “Paris Time” and “Blithe Spirit.” 

“I’m just thrilled that our devoted fans will get to see The Humans direct from Broadway on its very first tour,” said theREP’s Producing Artistic Director Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill. “That fact alone is worth a surprise party to me, but we’re also jam packed on Pearl Street with great comedies, musicals and new plays—which are really at the heart of what we do at theREP.”

“If you want to see “Hamilton” in 2018–2019, subscribe now,” said Proctors CEO Philip Morris. “And if you want to see incredible theatre right now, subscribe! We just keep getting better and better at Proctors and theREP. I don’t know how we do it!”

“We are theatre,” Morris said, “and our theme is ‘It’s All Yours!”

The 2017–2018 Key Private Bank Broadway Series at Proctors and the Subscription Series at Capital Repertory Theatre go on sale at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7 at the Box Office at Proctors, 432 State Street, Schenectady.

2017–2018 Key Private Bank Broadway Series at Proctors
All Proctors subscribers will choose one title from Capital Repertory Theatre.

“The Color Purple” October 7–14, 2017

“The Color Purple” is the 2016 Tony Award winner for Best Musical Revival! Hailed as “a direct hit to the heart” (The Hollywood Reporter), this joyous American classic—directed by Tony winner John Doyle—has conquered Broadway in an all-new “ravishingly reconceived production that is a glory to behold” (New York Times). With a soul-raising score of jazz, gospel, ragtime and blues, “The Color Purple” gives an exhilarating new spirit to this Pulitzer Prize-winning story. Don’t miss this stunning re-imagining of an epic tale of a young woman’s journey to love and triumph in the American South. It’s the musical sensation that New York Magazine calls “one of the greatest revivals ever.” Experience the thrilling power of this Tony-winning triumph!

“Fun Home” October 31–November 5, 2017

“Exquisite. An emotional powerhouse.”—Chicago Tribune

Every once in a while a Broadway musical comes along that surprises, moves and excites audiences in ways only a truly landmark show can. The “groundbreaking,” “exquisite” and “unforgettable” musical “Fun Home” was the event of the 2015 Broadway season; receiving raves from critics and audiences alike; winning five Tony Awards including Best Musical; and making history along the way. Based on Alison Bechdel’s best-selling graphic memoir, Fun Home introduces us to Alison at three different ages as she explores and unravels the many mysteries of her childhood. A refreshingly honest musical about seeing your parents through grown-up eyes, “Fun Home is extraordinary, a rare beauty that pumps fresh air into Broadway.” (New York Times)

“A landmark production that will forever change what is possible in musical theatre.”—The Huffington Post

“Fun Home” is not recommended for children under 13 for adult themes.

“Finding Neverland” December 5–10, 2017

The winner of Broadway.com’s Audience Choice Award for Best Musical, this breathtaking smash “captures the kid-at-heart,” says Time Magazine. Vogue cheers, “It’s a must-see you’ll remember for years to come!” Directed by visionary Tony-winner Diane Paulus and based on the critically-acclaimed Academy Award®-winning film, “Finding Neverland” tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. Spellbound by the boys’ enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatre goers. With a little bit of pixie dust and a lot of faith, Barrie takes a monumental leap, leaving his old world behind for Neverland, where nothing is impossible and the wonder of childhood lasts forever. The magic of Barrie’s classic tale springs spectacularly to life in this heartwarming theatrical event. “Finding Neverland” is “far and away the best musical of the year!” (NPR).

“The Bodyguard” January 30–February 4, 2018

Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard Frank Farmer is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron (Grammy® Award-nominee and R&B superstar Deborah Cox!) from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge; what they don’t expect is to fall in love. A breathtakingly romantic thriller, “The Bodyguard” features a host of irresistible classics including “Queen of the Night,” “So Emotional,” “One Moment in Time,” “Saving All My Love,” “Run to You,” “I Have Nothing,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and one of the biggest selling songs of all time—“I Will Always Love You.” Based on Lawrence Kasdan’s Oscar-nominated Warner Bros. film and adapted by Academy Award-winner (Birdman) Alexander Dinelaris, The Bodyguard had its world premiere in London’s West End where it was nominated for four Laurence Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical, and won Best New Musical at the WhatsOnStage Awards.

“Rodgers and Hammerstein’s The King and I” May 1–6, 2018

“I doubt I’ll see a better production in my lifetime.”—Terry Teachout, Wall Street Journal

Two worlds collide in the Lincoln Center Theater production of this “breathtaking and exquisite” (New York Times) musical, directed by Bartlett Sher. One of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s finest works, “The King and I” boasts a score that features such beloved classics as “Getting To Know You,” “I Whistle a Happy Tune,” “Hello Young Lovers,” “Shall We Dance” and “Something Wonderful.” Set in 1860s Bangkok, “The King and I” tells the story of the unconventional and tempestuous relationship that develops between the King of Siam and Anna Leonowens, a British schoolteacher whom the modernist king, in an imperialistic world, brings to Siam to teach his many wives and children. Winner of the 2015 Tony Award for Best Musical Revival, “The King and I” is “too beautiful to miss” (New York Magazine).

“Something wonderful, indeed. “The King and I” is a five-handkerchief masterpiece.”—Ben Brantley, New York Times

“On Your Feet!” May 29–June 3, 2018

From their humble beginnings in Cuba, Emilio and Gloria Estefan came to America and broke through all barriers to become a crossover sensation at the very top of the pop music world. But just when they thought they had it all, they almost lost everything. From international superstardom to life-threatening tragedy, “On Your Feet!” takes you behind the music and inside the real story of this record-making and groundbreaking couple who, in the face of adversity, found a way to end up on their feet. Directed by two-time Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell (“Kinky Boots”), with choreography by Olivier Award winner Sergio Trujillo (“Jersey Boys”) and an original book by Academy Award winner Alexander Dinelaris (“Birdman”), “On Your Feet!” features some of the most iconic songs of the past quarter-century—and one of the most inspiring stories in music history.

“If you don’t leave the theatre humming a Gloria Estefan hit, it may be time to check your pulse!”—Associated Press

Subscriber exclusive (available immediately to subscribers):

“Les Misérables” February 20–25, 2018

Cameron Mackintosh presents the new production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, “Les Misérables,” direct from an acclaimed two-and-a-half-year return to Broadway. With its glorious new staging and dazzlingly reimagined scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo, this breathtaking new production has left both audiences and critics awestruck, cheering “Les Miz is born again!” (NY1). Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, “Les Misérables” tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption—a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. Featuring the thrilling score and beloved songs “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” “Stars,” “Bring Him Home” and “One Day More,” this epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history. Seen by more than 70 million people in 44 countries and in 22 languages around the globe, “Les Misérables” is still the world’s most popular musical, breaking box office records everywhere in its 32nd year.

2017–2018 Subscription Series at Capital Repertory Theatre

All subscribers will see “The Humans” at Proctors.

“Mamma Mia!” July 7–August 13, 2017

Put on your platforms and boas and join the 54 million people all around the world who have fallen in love with this story filled with ABBA’s greatest hits! Experience “Mamma Mia!” as you never have before—up close and personal in the intimate setting of theREP! You’ll be singing along with this irresistible and enchanting tale that unfolds on a Greek Island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to revisit events from 20 years ago. As the mystery unravels, you’ll be laughing and rocking to smash hits, including “Dancing Queen,” “S.O.S.,” “Super Trouper,” “Take A Chance on Me” and “The Winner Takes It All.”

Perfect for all generations!

“Sex With Strangers” September 22–October 15, 2017
When Ethan, a strapping twenty-something blogger ends up snowbound at a bed and breakfast with his literary idol—fortyish novelist Olivia—sparks fly! In Laura Eason’s “Sex With Strangers,” one thing leads to another as these two savvy writers give in to their mutual attraction—but, oh, in the morning, things are not quite what they seemed to be the night before. Soon it becomes clear that this passionate weekend will turn into a life-altering experience, all just a click or a tweet away.

“Just like a page-turner, this smart comedy pulls you in and keeps you wondering what’s coming next … well-crafted, with sly wit and pitch-perfect dialogue.”—New York Daily News.

Contains mature language and adult subject matter

NEXT ACT! New Play Summit 6: Oct 20–23, 2017

“She Loves Me” November 24–December 24, 2017
Fall in love this holiday season alongside Amalia and George, the feuding store clerks who find solace in their secret lonely hearts pen pals. Little do they know, they are actually writing to each other! A tangle of mistaken identity and hilarious encounters finally bring these soulmates together with a tuneful and witty score celebrated with numerous Tony, Olivier and Drama Desk Awards. This confection of a musical is based on the timeless story by Miklos Laszlo that also served as inspiration for the classic film The Shop Around the Corner and more recently You’ve Got Mail. Considered by many to be one of the most charming musicals ever written, She Loves Me is a warm romantic comedy with an endearing innocence and a touch of old world elegance perfect for all ages!

“Paris Time” January 26–February 18, 2018
A gripping and sophisticated world premiere that looks behind the headlines at anti-Semitism in today’s France. When Deborah, the wife of a successful American executive based in Paris, becomes an activist defending a young Jewish Frenchwoman, Charles gets caught in the corporate hot seat. Company policy demands he withdraw from the political limelight or lose his career, but if he won’t get involved, he may lose his marriage. With everything on the line, Steven Peterson’s “Paris Time,” winner of theREP’s NEXT ACT! New Play Summit 5, brings today’s issues right into our living rooms.

“The Humans” March 6–11, 2018 at Proctors!
Stephen Karam’s “The Humans” is an uproarious, hopeful and heartbreaking play that takes place over the course of a family dinner on Thanksgiving. Breaking with tradition, Erik Blake has brought his Pennsylvania family to celebrate and give thanks at his daughter’s apartment in Lower Manhattan. As darkness falls outside the ramshackle pre-war duplex and eerie things start to go bump in the night, the Blake clan’s deepest fears and greatest follies are laid bare. Our modern age of anxiety is keenly observed, with humor and compassion, in this new American classic that won the 2016 Tony Award for Best Play.

“Blithe Spirit” April 6–April 29, 2018
One highly spirited wife is fun, but two is fertile ground for this smash comedy hit of the London and Broadway stages—from the witty pen of Noel Coward.  Meet cantankerous novelist Charles Condomine, remarried to Ruth but haunted (literally) by the ghost of his late first wife, the clever and insistent Elvira, who has been conjured up by a visiting “happy medium,” one Madame Arcati. What’s a husband to do with such an abundance of riches … or troubles? Join the fun to discover how Charles gets the genie—or at least Elvira—back into the bottle!

“Can still keep an audience in a state of tickled contentment.”—Ben Brantley, New York Times.