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Depot Theatre brings EVERY BRILLIANT THING to the main stage

Westport, NY — The Depot Theatre is pleased to announce the cast of its main stage production of EVERY BRILLIANT THING.

EVERY BRILLIANT THING is a feel-good show that ironically explores depression with the help of audience participation. It is a hilarious, heart-wrenching, and heart-warming play about the efforts of a young boy to will his chronically depressed mother to live by creating a list of all the best things in the world; everything worth living for.

Tyler Nye will play the role of the narrator in this transcendent one-man play. An Adirondack resident, Tyler is a familiar face with a long list of regional credits, including OUR TOWN, DOUBT, DEATHTRAP, AMADEUS, BASKERVILLE, and SHIPWRECKED! at Pendragon Theatre in Saranac Lake, readings with ADK Stage Rats, including RADIANT VERMIN at the Westport Library, and THE 39 STEPS and SEE HOW THEY RUN at Saint Michael’s Playhouse. Off-Broadway credits include THE MYSTERY OF IRMA VEP, TWELFTH NIGHT, THE GLASS MENAGERIE.

The play explores themes of depression and loss, but its central theme is the profound impact of seemingly small, beautiful things in our lives.

“We have done our best to approach this production with sensitivity and care, recognizing the delicate subject matter of mental health,” said Chan Harris, director. “It has been our aim to portray these themes with authenticity and respect, while also highlighting the play’s message of hope and resilience. Our wonderful Depot team has collaborated closely to ensure that every moment on stage is truthful and impactful.”

“When you experience EVERY BRILLIANT THING you’ll appreciate how anxious we were to find an actor who could win over an audience without acting; a relatable everyman who makes us feel safe, and makes us laugh about serious topics,” said Beth Glover, half of the Depot Theatre’s Artistic Production Management team along with Karen Lewis. “As much as Tyler is our guide, director Chan Harris — a Depot alumnus — has been equal parts his conductor and his pilot in this diamond of a theatrical balancing act. Together they’ve created a memorable performance you won’t forget.”

Performances will run from July 18 to August 4. A portion of opening weekend ticket sales will be donated to the Essex County Suicide Prevention Coalition. Tickets can be purchased online at DepotTheatre.org or by calling 518.962.4449.

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, NY, and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association.

For more information about the Depot Theatre’s main stage and Academy youth programs and for news updates visit DepotTheatre.org.

EVERY BRILLIANT THING
July 19 – August 4, with a $25 Preview on July 18
By Duncan Macmillan
With Jonny Donahoe

RATED: PG-13 (themes of mental health and suicide)
PRODUCTION SPONSOR: Mountain Lake PBS

“Every Brilliant Thing” is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC, servicing the Dramatists Play Service imprint. (www.dramatists.com)

About the Depot Theatre

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, N.Y., and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. In addition to its volunteer board of trustees, the theatre depends on the support and generosity of its loyal donors, volunteers, and community members. Committed to promoting and providing exposure to the performing arts in the Adirondacks, the Depot Theatre invites all to “Take a journey without leaving the station.” The Depot Theatre’s 2024 programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Additional support is provided by the Essex County Arts Council. The Depot Theatre 2024 Season is sponsored by the Rogers-Carroll Family Foundation.

The Depot Theatre Academy is a robust educational experience for area youth and a pathway for those interested in pursuing a profession in theatre—whether that’s backstage or on stage.

ANALOG AND VINYL – A Review

Tiara Whaley, Peter Corley, and Aja Downing in the Depot Theatre’s ANALOG AND VINYL.

A strength of the Depot is its perfect pitch for knowing when to poke smoldering social issues and when to let sleeping dogs lie. There are so many eye-averting troubles we must confront today at every turn that the luxury of escapism feels to be just what we needed.

Analog and Vinyl is a light and welcome beach-read of a musical that asks little of us, except that we sit back and enjoy an evening free of worldly encumbrances.

The scene of Analog and Vinyl is a vintage record shop operating out of a defunct convenience store, and from the get-go the set makes us happy — nostalgic posters of Steppenwolf and such, papering over walls that retain the garish 7-Eleven color scheme.

This is the lonely stamping grounds of the stressed Harrison, played by Peter Corley, whose lot in life is a blind devotion to the pressed albums of old that have lost out to the inferior but more convenient strains of the digital world.

Peter Corley

Corley aptly channels his inner Eeyore while still maintaining an appropriate hint of optimistic light (not an easy balancing act, but Corley pulls it off), by way of a stone cold assurance that one of these days the unwashed masses will see the error of their ways and come flocking to his store for LPs. (We in 2024 America know that, theoretically, he was right, and somehow this knowledge makes Harrison both more endearing and situationally valid.)

Helping Harrison in the shop, or trying to, is the air-headed Rodeo Girl (Tiara Whaley) who is a bubbly, amusingly difficult to explain presence. Though the plot of Analog and Vinyl is a bit uneven in spots, we’re all having fun so it can remain an article of faith that loose ends will eventually be tied and inconsistencies reconciled, at least close enough for a rom-com.

Tiara Whaley

Whaley skillfully takes a puzzling character and layers on complexities that grow as the show goes on, culminating in A&V’s best moment, Whaley’s rendition of “Vinyl Boy,” which brings down the house.

But the most delicious role of The Stranger is saved for the superb Aja Downing, who knows exactly what to do with a choice part. Of course you can’t spell “stranger” without s-a-t-a-n, and sure enough, the stranger has an offer that Harrison and Rodeo Girl can’t refuse. Or can they?

Aja Downing

As the two wrestle with their difficult decisions, more of their veneers crumble away and reveal tear-shedding vulnerabilities that make us feel far different about them than when they started out.

Director Beth Glover keeps the show hopping with levity until the plot can build momentum of its own. Also keeping toes tapping is a talented orchestra — Jane Boxall on drums, Bill Stokes on bass, and Andy Tompkins on guitar, with keyboards and music direction by Valerie Gebert — playing a lively score that is kind of essential to a show about a record shop.

THE ORCHESTRA –  (L-R) Valerie Gebert, musical director and keyboards; Andy Tompkins, guitar; Jane Boxall, drums; Bill Stokes, bass.

All told, the show leaves us far happier than when we came in, and not many diversions today can make that claim. Circumstances being what they are, the Depot’s Analog and Vinyl is a refreshing oasis from our cares in a day and age when, for a little carefree fun, we might even sell our souls.

Tim Rowland contributed this review by the request of, and in collaboration with the Depot Theatre. Rowland is a journalist and New York Times bestselling author, whose humorous commentaries explore an eclectic variety of subject matter, from politics to history to the great outdoors. He and his wife Beth live on the Ausable River in Jay, N.Y.

Depot Theatre’s ANALOG & VINYL opens 2024 main stage season

WESTPORT, N.Y. — The Depot Theatre in Westport, New York, is pleased to announce the dynamic cast of ANALOG & VINYL, the first production in the theatre’s 46th season main stage lineup.

ANALOG & VINYL is a musical rom-com romp with a memorable score infused with the influences of Elvis Costello, the Beatles, and Brian Wilson. It’s a delicious, devilish tale of Harrison, a young record shop owner, Rodeo Girl, the seemingly spacey—yet weirdly wise—hipster obsessed with him, and a mysterious stranger who rocks their world with an offer they might not be able to refuse.

The part of Harrison is played by Peter Corley. This past year Peter appeared in two Martin McDonagh plays, as Katurian in THE PILLOWMAN and Ray in BEAUTY QUEEN OF LENANE, as well as George Bailey in IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, Billy in Stoppard’s THE REAL THING, and Fred/Young Scrooge in A CHRISTMAS CAROL, all in Northwest NJ. He’s a graduate of the musical theater program at New York’s Circle in the Square, where he played Konstantin in THE SEAGULL, Cooper in ISLAND SONG, and as guest artist alum returned for productions of I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE, and LaChiusa’s SEE WHAT I WANNA SEE.

Aja Downing plays the role of The Stranger. Downing graduated from The American Musical Arts Academy in 2016. Some of Aja’s previous roles were Annette in TJ LOVES SALLY 4 EVA, Lorrell in DREAMGIRLS, Jojo in CHERCHEZ LA FEMME, Cassandra in ALEX AND EUGENE, Christine Daè in THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, Aida in AIDA, and Ella Baker in BAYARD: A NEW MUSICAL.

Tiara Whaley will play the role of Rodeo Girl. She is a Philadelphia-based actress and holds a musical theatre degree from West Chester University. Her favorite roles include Ti Moune (ONCE ON THIS ISLAND), Emmie Thibedeaux (CAROLINE OR CHANGE, Helen Hayes Outstanding Supporting Actress), Dorothy Gale (WIZARD OF OZ), and Heather Chandler (HEATHERS).

“We saw so many amazing actors at our New York City auditions – any number of them could do a fine job in ANALOG & VINYL,” said Beth Glover, the show’s director and part of the Depot’s Artistic Production Management team. “But these three talents, Tiara, Peter, and Aja, not only knocked it out of the park, they knocked us out with their vocals and scene work. ANALOG & VINYL is dear to us and we love watching this joyful enthusiastic cast bring this funny, smart, heartfelt story to life, and we’re certain you’ll love it, too.”

The musical will be backed by a top-notch pit band led by Valerie Gebert, Director/Conductor/Keyboardist with National and International Tours of Broadway musicals including SIX, THE LION KING, WICKED, ANASTASIA, CINDERELLA, FINDING NEVERLAND, THE ADDAMS FAMILY, CABARET, JOSEPH……, SOUND OF MUSIC, WEST SIDE STORY, A CHORUS LINE and HELLO, DOLLY! Other members of the band are Jane Boxall (drums), Andy Tompkins (guitar), and Bill Stokes (bass).

ANALOG & VINYL will run from June 27 through July 14. Tickets can be purchased online at DepotTheatre.org or by calling 518.962.4449.

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, NY, and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association.

For more information about the Depot Theatre’s main stage and Academy youth programs and for news updates visit DepotTheatre.org.

Analog & Vinyl
June 28 – July 14, with a $25 Preview on June 27
Music and Lyrics by Paul Gordon
Book by Paul Gordon & Michael Berresse

RATED: PG-13 (Language)
PRODUCTION SPONSOR: The Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation

Analog and Vinyl is presented by special arrangement with Uproar Theatrics
www.UproarTheatrics.com

About the Depot Theatre

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, N.Y., and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. In addition to its volunteer board of trustees, the theatre depends on the support and generosity of its loyal donors, volunteers, and community members. Committed to promoting and providing exposure to the performing arts in the Adirondacks, the Depot Theatre invites all to “Take a journey without leaving the station.” The Depot Theatre’s 2024 programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Additional support is provided by the Essex County Arts Council. The Depot Theatre 2024 Season is sponsored by the Rogers-Carroll Family Foundation.

The Depot Theatre Academy is a robust educational experience for area youth and a pathway for those interested in pursuing a profession in theatre—whether that’s backstage or on stage.

Academy summer program auditions set for June 29

Westport, NY – The Depot Theatre Academy summer program auditions will be held at the Whallonsburg Grange Hall on June 29 from 10am-noon.

The Depot Theatre Academy is a robust educational experience for area youth and a pathway for those interested in pursuing a profession in theatre—whether that’s backstage or on stage.

The three-week program for ages 8-18 will be held July 15 – August 4. It combines a variety of workshops by professionals in the theatre arts and culminates in performances of SHREK THE MUSICAL JR. at the Whallonsburg Grange Hall. Workshop offerings will include vocal training, backstage training including tech- such as lights and sound, performance art like juggling, and more!

Audition attendance is not required, but serves to inform casting. Participants who want to be considered for a larger role but are unable to attend the June 29 auditions can submit a video of themselves singing a song of their choice (a cappella is fine) to academy@depottheatre.org.

Intro to Theatre Program

Expanded 2024 Academy Summer programming will also include a new Introduction to Theatre program for 5-8-year-olds who are new to theatre. The program will be held from July 15-19 at the Boquet Valley Central School Mountain View Campus in Elizabethtown. Students will be introduced to theatre performance with a staged adaptation of the classic children’s book Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae, adapted by Amy Fitts.

There are no auditions for this introductory program. Capacity is limited and will be first come first served, with no registrations accepted after June 30th.

Registration

The registration fee for the 3-week program is $350 per participant. For families with more than one child participating in the program, the fee for the additional participants is $250/participant. The registration fee for the Intro to Theatre program is $100 per participant. For families with more than one child participating in the program, the fee for the additional participants is $75/participant.

Scholarships are available. To be considered for a scholarship, please contact Gigi Mason at gmason@depottheatre.org. This information will be kept strictly confidential.

For more information and registration forms, visit DepotTheatre.org/academy-main.

PHOTO: Depot Theatre Academy student artists rehearse for the 2023 Depot Theatre Academy program. The 2024 program will be held from July 15- August 6 at the Whallonsburgh Grange Hall, with auditions on June 29.

ABOUT THE DEPOT THEATRE

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, N.Y., and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.

The Depot Theatre’s 2024 programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Additional support is provided by the Essex County Arts Council. The Depot Theatre 2024 Season is sponsored by the Rogers-Carroll Family Foundation.

The Depot Theatre Academy is a robust educational experience for area youth and a pathway for those interested in pursuing a profession in theatre—whether that’s backstage or on stage. The Depot Theatre 2024 Academy summer program is sponsored by the TrailNorth Federal Credit Union. The Academy is underwritten by the Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation.

Cast Announced for Depot Theatre Academy’s SPELLING BEE

The Depot Theatre Academy is pleased to announce the cast of THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE. This special production features experienced student artists from the Depot Theatre Academy outreach and education program. Performances will be on the Depot main stage on Friday, June 7 at 7pm, Saturday, June 8 at 7pm and Sunday, June 9 at 3pm. TICKETS are available online or by calling the box office at 518.962.4449.

Meet the Cast

Jocelyn Bessette (Logainne Swartzandgruibenere or Swartzy): Jocelyn is 15 and is currently in grade 9 at Peru Central School. Previous shows include ONE STOPLIGHT TOWN (police officer), BRIGHT STAR (clerk), BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Babette), MEAN GIRLS (Cady), all with Peru Drama Club. Jocelyn loves singing, swimming, and of course performing as well as watching other shows. Jocelyn is not sure of her future plans but knows that she wants to perform for the rest of her life.

Aydan Christensen (William Morris Barfee/Leaf’s Dad): Aydan is 18 and is in 12th Grade at Au Sable Valley Central School. Previous shows include GUYS AND DOLLS (Nicely-Nicely), OKLAHOMA! (Andrew Carnes), and SUESSICAL JR (Mr. Mayor). Aydan’s interests include Geology, music composition, and production and drama. Aydan likes caramel and dislikes people who eat or breathe too loudly. Aydan’s future plans are to major in Environmental Geoscience at SUNY Plattsburgh and to audition for Artistry Community Theatre’s Fall Production of JEKYLL AND HYDE.

Lindsay Haner (Rona Lisa Peretti/Olive’s Mom): Lindsay is 17 and is currently in the 12th Grade at Au Sable Valley Central School. Previous shows include CHICAGO (Roxy), GREASE (Jan), and GUYS AND DOLLS (Sara Brown) with the Au Sable Valley Players, and ensemble roles with Artistry Community Theatre in DAMN YANKEES and LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS. Other than performing, Lindsay’s interests include painting, crocheting, baking, and swimming. Her future plans are to major in Music Education at SUNY Fredonia!

Cooper Halloran (Vice Principal Douglas Panch): Cooper is 17 and a senior at Bouquet Valley Central School. Previous shows include PETER PAN, JR., LITTLE MERMAID JR., SEUSSICAL JR., MADAGASCAR JR., WILLIE WONKA JR., LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, THE BOYFRIEND, PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, LITTLE WOMEN, TREASURE ISLAND, and DEPOT ACADEMY’S CABARET.  Cooper enjoys his dog Skipper, writing, being humble, and being the coolest person ever.  Cooper dislikes his dog Skipper, and learning his lines.  His future plans include something fun (hopefully).

Ella Lobdell (Olive Ostrovsky): Ella is 17 and in the 12th Grade at Boquet Valley Central School. Previous shows include THE ADDAMS FAMILY (ancestor), MATILDA JR (Trunchbull), LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS (Ronnette), and many more! Ella loves basketball, sports, music, hanging with friends, making clime, playing fortnite with Aja and Lawrence, and sleeping. Ella’s future plans are to attend Utica College in the fall where she will play on their basketball team and major in accounting.

Parker Scanio (Chip Tollentino/Jesus/Olive’s Dad): Parker is 16 and goes to Lake Placid High School. Previous shows include Flounder in LITTLE MERMAID, Mr. Green in CLUE, Pugsley in THE ADDAMS FAMILY, Edward Markley and Dr. Von Sochocky in RADIUM GIRLS, and Trunchbull in MATILDA. Parker loves musical theater, food, tennis, and nordic skiing. His future plans are to major in Musical Theater in college.

Addie Stanley (Marcy Parks/Carla Mom): Addie is 17 and is in the 12th Grade at Au Sable Valley Central School. This is Addie’s 25th show! Favorite roles include GUYS AND DOLLS (Miss Adelaide), GREASE (Rizzo), CHICAGO (Velma), JUNGLE BOOK (Tabaqui), and the WIZARD OF OZ (Wicked Witch). Addie likes reading, hanging out with her cat, and sustaining her two year old Duolingo streak. Her future plans are to attend the University of Florida and major in Criminology.

Grace Stephens (Mel Mahoney/Dani Mom): Grace is 17 and is a Senior at Keene Central School. Previous shows include THE LITTLE MERMAID, SEUSSICAL, THE LION KING, MADAGASCAR, WILLY WONKA, SHE KILLS MONSTERS, Depot Academy: A Cabaret, EURYDICE, SPAMALOT, and THE NUTCRACKER. Grace loves dance, canoeing, and reading. She will be attending Delphi University in the fall to pursue a BFA in Dance.

Madeline Young (Leaf Coneybear): Madeline is 15 and is currently in the 9th Grade at AuSable Valley Central School. Previous shows include GUYS AND DOLLS and GREASE with the Ausable Valley Players. Madeline likes running, baking and reading. Her future plans: MORE THEATRE!!

CREW
Co-Directed by Gigi Mason and Amy Fitts
Music Director – Kimberly Weems
Choreographer – Gigi Mason
Assistant Choreographer – Grace Stephens
Costume Design/Props – Amy Fitts.
Costume Assistant – Sadie Burgess.
Lighting/Scenic Design – Bonnie Brewer.
Sound Technician/Design – Jack Schoonover.

ORCHESTRA
Kimberly Weems, Music Director – piano.
Aaron Jodoin, keyboard/synthesizer.
Stu Pray – percussion. Felix Haskins – cello.

Depot Theatre awarded more than $40,000 in grant support

Westport, N.Y. — The Depot Theatre in Westport, New York, has been recently awarded grants for technology improvements and expanded education programs. 

Technology Improvements

The New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) has awarded the Depot Theatre a $25,000 capital projects grant for a new scenic projection system.

Scenic projection design technology is becoming more prevalent on Broadway, on the road, and in regional theaters nationwide. In short: it allows the ability to project images on the stage and to present changing scenery and truly mixed media productions combining live performances with filmed sequences. The system will largely eliminate the time and costs associated with building entirely physical sets while transforming the stage in more creative and exciting ways.

For the Depot Theatre, adding this technology presents a number of financial benefits: savings in personnel, time, materials, and storage space costs. It also provides an opportunity for the theatre’s scenic designers to implement more elaborate designs. In addition, this contemporary technology will be a great tool for teaching artists to include in training for Academy program participants who are interested in theatre technology careers.

“We’re grateful to NYSCA for this vital support,” said Kim Rielly, Depot Theatre’s Executive Director. “The projector system will not only enhance the quality and variety of the live theatre experience we can provide for our audiences but will be a sustainable solution to a number of capacity challenges that plague our small professional theatre.”

“The over 100 projects we’re supporting through this funding will showcase arts and cultural organizations across the state and spur economic development for decades to come,” Governor Hochul said. “From historic sites to new multi-use arts centers, these diverse projects will expand the accessibility and the sustainability of arts and culture organizations while growing local economies, driving tourism, and creating jobs all across New York State.”

The system will be purchased and staff training will occur in 2024 so that it can be used for the 2025 season.

Expanded Education Programs

The Charles R. Wood Foundation has awarded the Depot $15,000, and the Essex County Arts Council has awarded $750 in support of the Depot’s expanded Academy outreach and education program.

The Depot Theatre Academy has implemented expanded programming in 2024, beginning with the addition of an opportunity for experienced student artists ages 13 and older enrolled in school, inclusive of home school and college. The program features the same process that professional artists experience on the main stage, with competitive auditions and demanding rehearsals, culminating in performances of THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE on the Depot Theatre’s main stage June 7-9.

Expanded 2024 Academy Summer programming also includes a new program for 5-8-year-olds who are new to theatre from July 15-19 at the BVCS Mountain View Campus. The Depot will also host its three-week program for ages 8-18, culminating in three performances of SHREK THE MUSICAL JR. on August 2-4 at the Whallonsburg Grange Hall.

The grant will support the Depot’s ability to offer scholarships for the summer programs as well as attendance at the annual New York State Theatre Education Association (NYSTEA) conference — an opportunity that is pivotal to the growth of young artists as they decide on their future careers. The Academy also seeks to increase participation by school districts in its Arts In Education programs during the school year.

Over the past five years, the Charles R. Wood Foundation has awarded nearly $10.2 million dollars to charitable organizations in the Capital Region, North Country, and western Vermont. “We are so pleased to be able to support so many worthwhile projects. From small community soup kitchens to the larger capital projects, we are committed to investing in children, healthcare, and the arts in our geographical focus area,” said Charlene Wood, Chair and Trustee.

The Essex County Arts Council administers the Cultural Assistance Program (CAP) Grants, which are funded by Essex County and the Essex County Board of Supervisors.

“We are extremely appreciative of the continued commitment from the Essex County Arts Council, and for the generous support of the Charles R. Wood Foundation,” said Ginene Mason, Depot Theatre’s Director of Outreach and Education. “This funding will allow us to expand the reach of our summer programming, and our year-round Arts In Education programs, effectively introducing the arts to North Country students that are historically underserved.”

For more information about the Depot Theatre and the Academy program visit DepotTheatre.org.

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ABOUT THE DEPOT THEATRE

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, N.Y., and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.

The Depot Theatre’s 2024 programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Additional support is provided by the Essex County Arts Council. The Depot Theatre 2024 Season is sponsored by the Rogers-Carroll Family Foundation.

The Depot Theatre Academy is a robust educational experience for area youth and a pathway for those interested in pursuing a profession in theatre—whether that’s backstage or on stage. The Depot Theatre 2024 Academy summer program is sponsored by the TrailNorth Federal Credit Union. The Academy is underwritten by the Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation.

ABOUT THE NEW YORK STATE COUNCIL ON THE ARTS

The mission of the New York State Council on the Arts is to foster and advance the full breadth of New York State’s arts, culture, and creativity for all. To support the ongoing recovery of the arts across New York State, the Council on the Arts will award $127 million in FY 2024, serving over 2,000 arts organizations and artists across all 10 state regions. The Council on the Arts further advances New York’s creative culture by convening leaders in the field and providing organizational and professional development opportunities and informational resources. Created by Governor Nelson Rockefeller in 1960 and continued with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, the Council is an agency that is part of the Executive Branch. For more information on NYSCA, please visit www.arts.ny.gov, and follow NYSCA’s Facebook page, on X @NYSCArts and Instagram @NYSCouncilontheArts.

ABOUT THE CHARLES R. WOOD FOUNDATION

The Charles R. Wood Foundation was founded in 1978 with its mission to provide assistance to areas of special need in the Lake George Region and surrounding areas. Not-for-profit organizations with an emphasis on programs for children, healthcare, and the arts are the beneficiaries of Mr. Wood’s generosity. A Board of Trustees oversees the Foundation with a goal to preserve the mission established by Charles R. Wood.

ABOUT THE ESSEX COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL

The Essex County Arts Council is a 501c3 non-profit organization serving Essex County in the beautiful Adirondack region of upstate New York.

Essex County Arts Council promotes and advocates a vibrant culture for the arts through an effective county-wide system to proactively connect organizations, artists, and students with full-time and seasonal residents and visitors.

IN THE NEWS: Depot Theatre featured in LOCALadk

READ ALL ABOUT IT!


The large infrastructure projects at the train station are nearly completed, and the Depot is ready to launch its 2024 main stage season and Academy youth education programming. Curious about the history of our rare professional Adirondack Theatre housed-in-a-train station?

In its spring issue, LOCALadk Magazine featured the theatre, and a few local residents too! 

Depot Theatre Announces 2024 Main Stage Season

Westport, NY — Complete with a little bit of country, a little rock and roll, and a lot of fun and inspiration, the Depot Theatre in Westport, New York, is pleased to announce its 2024 professional main stage season lineup.

Lights go up on the main stage with ANALOG & VINYL, a musical rom-com romp featuring a memorable score infused with the influences of Elvis Costello, the Beatles, and Brian Wilson. The musical is a delicious, devilish tale of Harrison, a young record shop owner in danger of losing his family’s store, Rodeo Girl, the seemingly spacey—yet weirdly-wise—hipster obsessed with him, and a mysterious stranger who rocks their world with an offer they might not be able to refuse—and it’s not for vintage vinyl. Performances will be June 27-July 14.

Next up on the stage is EVERY BRILLIANT THING, a hilarious, heart-wrenching, and heart-warming play about the efforts of a young boy to will his mother to live by creating a list of all the best things in the world; everything worth living for. The play is a transcendent and tender coming-of-age journey that reminds us to pay attention to life’s smallest joys—and to each other. Performances will run from July 18 to August 4.

To top off the season, the Depot will serve up some rollicking down-home entertainment with PUMP BOYS AND DINETTES. This crowd-pleasing boot-stomping country-western musical features Prudie and Rhetta Cupp, the generous gals from the Double Cupp Diner, singing and performing along with those talented guys from the gas station ‘cross the road. PUMP BOYS received unanimous raves on and off Broadway, (including on the Depot Theatre stage in 1997!). PUMP BOYS will run from August 8-25.

The 2024 season was curated by the Depot’s Artistic Production Management team, Beth Glover and Karen Lewis.

“We wanted to choose a season of joy and feel-good shows that have great stories, heart, and provide escapism,” said Glover. “Join us this summer at The Depot and take a journey to some brighter, more inspiring places.”

The professional productions are preceded on the main stage by a special Depot Theatre Academy production of THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE, with three performances by the region’s experienced student artists on June 7-9.

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, NY, and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association.

2024 Season Passes will go on sale on April 15, and they can be purchased online or by calling the box office at 518.962.4449. Individual tickets will be available beginning May 15.

More details, information about the Depot Theatre Academy youth program, additional events, and news updates can be found online at DepotTheatre.org.

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About the Depot Theatre

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, N.Y., and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. In addition to its volunteer board of trustees, the theatre depends on the support and generosity of its loyal donors, volunteers, and community members. Committed to promoting and providing exposure to the performing arts in the Adirondacks, the Depot Theatre invites all to “Take a journey without leaving the station.” The Depot Theatre’s 2024 programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, with additional support from the Essex County Arts Council.  The Depot Theatre’s 2024 Season Sponsor is The Rogers-Carroll Family Foundation.

The Depot Theatre Academy is a robust educational experience for area youth and a pathway for those interested in pursuing a profession in theatre—whether that’s backstage or on stage.

Depot Theatre Announces Performance Opportunity for Experienced Student Artists

Westport, NY —The Depot Theatre is pleased to announce a new main stage performance opportunity for experienced student artists.

The Depot Theatre Academy outreach and education program will open the theatre’s main stage season with a production of THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE, with three performances on the Depot Theatre stage during the weekend of June 7-9, 2024.

The Depot Theatre Academy is a robust educational experience for area youth and a pathway for those interested in pursuing a profession in theatre—whether that’s backstage or on stage.

This special opportunity is for young artists ages 13 and older enrolled in school, inclusive of home school and college. The program will feature the same process that professional artists experience on the main stage, with competitive auditions and demanding rehearsals, culminating in performances on the Depot Theatre’s main stage.

The program will be led by a team of experienced professional teaching artists. It will be co-directed by Gigi Mason, Depot Theatre’s Director of Outreach and Education, and Amy Fitts, drama educator and professional actor. Live musical direction and accompaniment will be provided by music and drama educator Kim Weems, with workshops by a number of visiting professional artists throughout the rehearsal period.

“We’re thrilled to offer this unique learning experience and to showcase the region’s talented young artists,” said Gigi Mason. “Those who are cast will have access to professional expertise on stage, and there will also be workshop opportunities for those interested in learning about various off-stage careers in the arts, such as technical disciplines.”

Auditions will be held at the Whallonsburg Grange Hall on March 30, from 10am – 1pm. There is no cost for participation. Interested participants should fill out the form linked from depottheatre.org/academy-main to receive information about audition preparation.

ABOUT THE SHOW

THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE is a heartfelt musical comedy that follows an eclectic group of six teens who compete for the spelling championship of a lifetime. While candidly disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives, the tweens spell their way through a series of (potentially made-up) words, hoping never to hear the soul-crushing “ding” of the bell that signals a spelling mistake.

Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE has charmed audiences across the country with its effortless wit and humor. Featuring a fast-paced, wildly funny, and touching book by Rachel Sheinkin and a truly fresh and vibrant score by William Finn, this Spelling Bee is one unforgettable experience.

2024 ACADEMY SUMMER PROGRAM

In addition to this opportunity for experienced student artists, expanded 2024 Academy Summer programming will include a new program for 5-8-year-olds who are new to theatre from July 15-19 at the BVCS Mountain View Campus, and also the three-week program for ages 8-18, culminating in three performances of SHREK THE MUSICAL JR. on August 2-4 at the Whallonsburg Grange Hall. Details and more information will be announced soon.

Tickets for the Academy performances of SPELLING BEE will go on sale on May 15 and will be available online or by calling the box office at 518.962.4449. For programming information and news, visit depottheatre.org.

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About the Depot Theatre
The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, N.Y., and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. In addition to its volunteer board of trustees, the theatre depends on the support and generosity of its loyal donors, volunteers, and community members. Committed to promoting and providing exposure to the performing arts in the Adirondacks, the Depot Theatre invites all to “Take a journey without leaving the station.” The Depot Theatre’s 2024 programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
The Depot Theatre Academy is a robust educational experience for area youth and a pathway for those interested in pursuing a profession in theatre—whether that’s backstage or on stage.

Depot Theatre Welcomes New Artistic Production Management Team 

(L-R:) Beth Glover and Karen Lewis are the new Artistic Production Management team for the Depot Theatre.

WESTPORT, NY — The Depot Theatre in Westport, NY is pleased to announce the appointment of Beth Glover and Karen Lewis to provide artistic leadership as the theatre’s new Artistic Production Management team. 

Beth Glover (she/her) has been a theatre professional devoted to the arts for over 30 years. Her passion for the arts can be traced back to a Southern upbringing that valued storytelling. Her acting credits include six Broadway National Tours and many shows Off-Broadway. Directing credits include 9 TO 5 at SUNY Plattsburgh, BAKERSFIELD MIST for Adk Lakes Ctr for the Arts & ASR, SOUTHERN COMFORTS for ALCA, WICKED CITY & HEROES for Depot Theatre, and more for Adirondack Stage Rats, a production company co-founded with her wife, Karen Lewis.

Karen L. Lewis (she/her) is a writer/producer whose plays have been performed around the country as well as Off-Broadway, and whose work in television writing garnered her 5 Emmys and 4 WGA awards. A member of the Writers Guild of America and The Dramatists’ Guild, her plays have won numerous awards: THE PERFECT WIFE won The Stanley Drama Award, and was a semi-finalist for both the Eugene O’Neill Theatre’s National Playwrights Conference and the Actors Theatre of Charlotte’s nuVoices for a nuGeneration Playwriting Festival. And SHADES OF VALOR was a winner of the AACT NewPlayFest and was premiered at Twin City Stage in Winston-Salem, NC and is published by Dramatic Publishing.

“We’ve been fortunate to benefit from Karen and Beth’s collective expertise for decades as volunteers, advisors, and professional artists,” said Kim Rielly, Depot Theatre Executive Director. “I’m thrilled to welcome them and their vast experience and vision in this official leadership capacity!”

“Having played so many roles both on and off stage at the Depot over the past 25 years, serving as this summer’s artistic team is like a very pleasant homecoming,” said Beth Glover. “We’re looking forward to working with old friends and bringing in new faces and energy to ignite the 2024 summer season!”

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, NY, and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association.

The Depot Theatre’s 2024 season will be announced soon. For more information about the Depot Theatre, its main stage and Academy youth programs, and for news updates visit DepotTheatre.org.

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About the Depot Theatre

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, N.Y., and it is the only theatre in the Adirondacks that operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. In addition to its volunteer board of trustees, the theatre depends on the support and generosity of its loyal donors, volunteers, and community members. Committed to promoting and providing exposure to the performing arts in the Adirondacks, the Depot Theatre invites all to “Take a journey without leaving the station.” The Depot Theatre’s 2024 programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, with additional support from the Essex County Arts Council.

The Depot Theatre Academy is a robust educational experience for area youth and a pathway for those interested in pursuing a profession in theatre—whether that’s backstage or on stage.

Our Mission & Vision

Mission: The Depot Theatre is to entertain, enrich, and educate through professional theatrical arts and related programs based in a historic train station.

Vision: The Depot Theatre will have a robust, regional, and year-round presence by creating the highest of quality programs, building strong partnerships, and enhancing community engagement while promoting diversity in all that we do.

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The Depot Theatre receives funding from the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

With special thanks to the following for their support of the Depot’s ongoing strategic objectives: Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trust, Cloudsplitter Foundation, J.M. McDonald Foundation, Inc., Glenn and Carol Pearsall Adirondack Foundation, Charles R. Wood Foundation, Adirondack Foundation, Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation, Rogers Carroll Family Foundation, Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation.

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