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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.

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.

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.

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.

Depot Theatre awarded $33,000 in funding support

WESTPORT, N.Y. —The Depot Theatre in Westport, NY was recently awarded grants from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA), Cloudsplitter Foundation, and Stewart’s Shops in support of artists, artists’ housing, and arts-in-education.

The Depot has received three Regrowth and Capacity grants of $10,000 each from NYSCA. These grants will support the organization’s artists’ fees for both the main stage and the Academy summer youth program and the expansion of Academy arts-in-education programming.

The responsive funding of NYSCA is providing nearly 1,000 organizations with over $13 million in recovery support in FY23, as part of their historic FY23 $90 million in grant making and $150 million in multi-year capital support.

“This unprecedented funding continues our investment into the vital role that the arts contribute to the health of our economy, our communities, and our citizens,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “As we continue our comeback, we applaud the strength and innovation of arts organizations across the state and are all the better for their hard work and dedication.”

Cloudsplitter Foundation Director Chenelle Palyswiat presents a check to Depot Theatre Executive Director Kim Rielly.

In addition, the Depot was recently awarded $2,500 in support of its artist housing from Cloudsplitter Foundation and $500 from Stewart’s Shops in support of the Depot Theatre Academy arts-in-education program.

“We’re grateful for NYSCA, Cloudsplitter Foundation, and Stewart’s Shops’ continued support of the Depot Theatre and our mission,” said Kim Rielly, the Depot Theatre’s Executive Director. “As the Adirondacks’ only professional Equity theatre, this vital funding will support the artists and infrastructure that are necessary for us to continue to have a significant cultural and economic impact in our community and the greater region.”

As the only professional theatre in the Adirondacks operating under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States, the Depot is required to provide housing for its visiting artists who work at the theatre during its summer main stage season, and owns and maintains a 9-bedroom house for that purpose. The goal is to ultimately also use the house as a center for artistic collaboration, including community access and year-round programming.

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, N.Y.. The theatre’s upcoming main stage summer season and Academy opportunities will be announced in early 2023.

For more information about the Depot Theatre and its programs, visit DepotTheatre.org.

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 2023 programming is made possible in part 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 Adirondack Foundation – Generous Acts Fund and the Essex County Arts Council.

ABOUT THE NYS COUNCIL ON THE ARTS

The Council on the Arts preserves and advances the arts and culture that make New York State
an exceptional place to live, work and visit. The Council upholds the right of all New Yorkers to
experience the vital contributions the arts make to our communities, education, economic
development, and quality of life. To support the ongoing recovery of the arts across New York
State, the Council on the Arts will award record funding in FY 2023, providing support across
the full breadth of the arts, including dedicated support for arts education and underrepresented communities.

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 http://www.arts.ny.gov, and follow NYSCA’s Facebook page, Twitter @NYSCArts and
Instagram @NYSCouncilontheArts.

ABOUT CLOUDSPLITTER FOUNDATION

The Cloudsplitter Foundation is dedicated to improving the future for the flora, fauna, communities, and people of the Adirondacks.

Over 70% of the grants made by the Cloudsplitter Foundation go to improve the environment, economies, and lives of the the people in the Adirondacks.

Historic Property Exterior Painting Project Completed

Did you know?

The Depot Theatre owns one building on the National Register of Historic Places (our artists’ housing) and is a steward of another (the Town of Westport’s circa 1876 Train Station).

2022 saw the completion of the Historic Property Exterior Painting Project (paid for by the Depot Theatre, with support from the Charles R. Wood Foundation and the J.M. McDonald Foundation).

Following are some photos of the project!

BEFORE

AFTER

Next up: Paving the parking lot and Amtrak’s new platform!

 

WORKING: A MUSICAL features 6 vocal powerhouses

Depot Theatre’s second 2021 main stage production celebrates everyday heroes

Westport, NY — The Depot Theatre is pleased to announce the cast of its second 2021 main stage production, WORKING: A MUSICAL, with performances from July 22 – August 8.

Nominated for six Tony Awards, WORKING: A MUSICAL features vibrant portrayals of 26 real-life American workers – including a schoolteacher, trucker, housewife, fireman, and millworker – played by 6 actors. The show conveys how people’s relationships to their work reveal key aspects of their humanity. The musical includes songs by Tony Award-winning Lin-Manuel Miranda and favorite numbers by Stephen Schwartz, Craig Carnelia, and James Taylor.

Six vocal powerhouses comprise the cast, including Broadway and Depot Theatre alumni, along with some artists making their Depot debut. 

The Depot’s own Producing Artistic Director, Kenney M. Green, will take the stage as Man #1 for this production. Along with being a seasoned director, choreographer, dancer, and musician, Green’s acting credits include:  Off-Broadway: FINKS! (Ensemble Studio Theatre) and GROWING UP 70’s starring Barry Williams (Luther).  National/European Tours: SMOKEY JOE’S CAFÉ starring Gladys Knight (Victor/Dance Capt.), AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’, and THE MUSIC OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER (Ensemble). 

Broadway alum Brandi Chavonne Massey will play the role of Woman #2. Her credits include: West End Nala in Disney’s THE LION KING. Broadway and National Tours include roles such as Nettie/Celie in THE COLOR PURPLE; Elphaba in WICKED; The Radio in CAROLINE OR CHANGE; and Lucy in JEKYLL AND HYDE. New York projects include Ghetto Superstar singing background for Billy Porter as well as Sam Smith; Kira in BARE; Pam in BABY; Myrt in CARMEN JONES at the York Theater; Muse in the Nike workshop of Ball with L.L. Cool Jay and Savion Glover; Linda Eder’s Christmas Concert; and Dionne in HAIR in the Encore Series. She also has several T.V and film credits.

Amy Fitts is thrilled to be back at the Depot in the role of Woman #3. She’s worn many a wig and dress on the Depot stage, playing Philia in FORUM, Woman 2 in I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, Yum Yum in MIKADO, and more. In NYC she’s performed in shows at The Mint, Lucille Lortel, Joe’s Pub, and other downtown venues. She traveled Japan singing Disney songs with the Tokyo Philharmonic and performed closer to home at Peterborough Players (Laura, GLASS MENAGERIE), Weston Playhouse (HAIRSPRAY/AS YOU LIKE IT), and Cohoes Music Hall (Gooch, MAME).  

Xavier Reyes plays the role of Man #2. Reyes is a storyteller from Puerto Rico and a graduate of upstate New York’s Ithaca College. Some favorite credits include Broadway’s National Tour of KINKY BOOTS in the USA, Japan, and Canada; Roy/Mark/Peter in FUN HOME at American Stage; Angel in HAIR at the Titusville Playhouse; Graffiti Pete in IN THE HEIGHTS at Geva Theatre/Melissa Rain Anderson; and Lynn Nottage’s SWEAT at Pioneer Theatre Company.

Terry Lewis and Thani Brant will be making their Depot Theatre debuts in WORKING. Lewis plays the role of Man #3. Favorite roles include: Frank-n-Furter in THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW at Selma Arts Center, Cinderella’s Prince/The Wolf in INTO THE WOODS, and Black Stache in PETER AND THE STARCATCHER at Stageworks Fresno. 

Thani Brant will play the role of Woman #1. A 2021 graduate of the University of Michigan, with a BFA in Musical Theatre, recent credits include Touchstone in U of M’s AS YOU LIKE IT and Anna in SPRING AWAKENING with Exit Left Theatre Co.

The show is directed by Julie Lucido, an associate member of the Stage Directors & Choreography Society and a graduate of the University of California Santa Cruz in Theatre Arts. Lucido is thrilled to be making her Depot directing debut. “Celebrating the ‘every’ person, the worker, as the backbone of what makes the world go around is particularly important in this time,” said Lucido. “As we have been reminded, we should honor the essential workers, and how interconnected we are; the stories we will weave, share, and sing are so very important.”

The Depot Theatre’s production of WORKING: A MUSICAL runs Thursdays-Sundays from July 22 through August 8, 2021, and is sponsored by Chazy Westport Communications/Westelcom. The 2021 Season sponsor is Casella.

As a professional Actors’ Equity- and Stage Directors and Choreographers Society-affiliated theatre, the Depot must adhere to both government and union health and safety guidelines. As such, audience members are required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Tickets and information are available by calling the box office at 518.962.4449 or visiting 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 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 2021 programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature. Additional support is provided by Essex County Arts Council. www.DepotTheatre.org

Depot Theatre announces increased capacity for 2021 season

New York State mandates for theatres have been updated to allow full capacity for a fully-vaccinated audience.

However, like Broadway and other professional Equity theatres, the Depot Theatre is subject to both State government AND Actors’ Equity Association health and safety guidelines.*

THE BOTTOM LINE:
New protocols will allow the Depot to increase capacity for performances this summer!

 

PROTOCOL as of 8/18/2021

  • NOTICE: Based on CDC recommendations due to the increased level of community transmission of the Delta variant in Essex County, ALL AUDIENCE MEMBERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO WEAR A FACE COVERING WHILE IN THE THEATRE.
  • All patrons must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination upon arrival at the theatre. Please provide one of the following:
    Original, paper copy or digital copy of vaccination card and/or NYS Excelsior Pass
    (Tip: take a photo of your vaccination card so that it is on your phone!)
    Patrons unable to receive the vaccine can provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of showtime.
As policies evolve, updates will be posted online at DepotTheatre.org and outside the theatre.

We thank our patrons for adhering to these guidelines in order to enjoy live performances at the Depot this summer!

Update: Ticket sales will be conducted by phone and online.

Tickets can be purchased by calling the box office at 518.962.4449.

BOX OFFICE HOURS:

JUNE: 1pm – 5pm on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.
JULY-AUGUST: 1pm – 5pm every day. 1pm-Showtime on performance days. (Closed Tuesdays.)

Depot Theatre Back on Track in 2021

Westport, N.Y. — The Depot Theatre in Westport, NY is pleased to announce a return to live performances in 2021, with three main stage productions originally planned for 2020, featuring iconic figures and everyday heroes.

The only professional Equity theatre in the Adirondacks, the Depot will adhere to both government and Actors’ Equity health and safety guidelines, which will require a number of protocol changes that include limited audience capacity, required face coverings, and ticket sales conducted entirely by phone.

“We are committed to our mission to ‘entertain, enrich, and educate through professional theatrical arts,’ and the Depot staff is prepared to optimize the experience while meeting this year’s strict protocols,” said Kim Rielly, Depot Theatre Executive Director. “Though the audience capacity will look dramatically different this summer, the professional performances on stage will be the high quality experience that our patrons have come to expect!”

The season will open with THE MOUNTAINTOP, a reflective, often funny, touching, and gripping reimagining of the night before the assassination of the civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in which he examines his achievements, his failures, and his unfinished dreams. In 2011, this poignant play’s Broadway run starred Samuel L. Jackson and Angela Bassett. THE MOUNTAINTOP will run from July 1 through July 18.

Next up on the main stage is WORKING: A MUSICAL beginning July 22 through August 8, 2021. Nominated for six Tony Awards, WORKING: A MUSICAL features vibrant portrayals of 26 real-life American workers – including a schoolteacher, trucker, housewife, fireman, and millworker – played by 6 actors. The show conveys how people’s relationships to their work reveal key aspects of their humanity. The musical includes songs by Tony Award-winning Lin-Manuel Miranda, and favorite numbers by Stephen Schwartz, Craig Carnelia, and James Taylor.

The season closes on a big note with LADY DAY AT EMERSON’S BAR & GRILL from August 12-29. This “play with music” recounts the heartbreaking, beautiful, and haunting story of Billie Holiday’s life through the songs that made her one of the most famous icons of the era, including “What A Little Moonlight Can Do,” “God Bless The Child,” and “Strange Fruit.”

“We’re excited to be able to produce live theatre again on our intimate stage, especially this particular lineup, which exemplifies our vision statement that promises to promote diversity in all that we do,” said Kenney Green, the Depot’s Producing Artistic Director. “These productions represent a range of experiences that will resonate with our audiences, from thought-provoking storytelling that illustrates how some decades-old struggles are still relevant today to pure entertainment.”

Among the changes in protocol this year, ticket sales will be conducted entirely by phone. Tickets will go on sale on June 2, and can be purchased by calling the box office at 518.962.4449. As policies evolve, updates will be posted online and at the Depot. More details, additional events and news updates can be found online at DepotTheatre.org.

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DEPOT THEATRE 2021 MAIN STAGE SEASON

The Depot Theatre 2021 Main Stage Season is generously sponsored by Casella.

THE MOUNTAINTOP
July 2-18, 2021
$25 preview on July 1
By: Katori Hall
RATED: PG-13 (Includes some adult language.)
PRODUCTION SPONSOR: The Galley Restaurant and Bar at Westport Marina

WORKING: A MUSICAL
July 23- August 8, 2021
$25 preview on July 22
From the book by Studs Terkel
Adapted by Stephen Schwartz and Nina Faso with additional contributions by Gordon Greenberg
Songs by Craig Carnelia, Micki Grant, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mary Rodgers and Susan Birkenhead, Stephen Schwartz, and James Taylor
Orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire
RATED: PG
PRODUCTION SPONSOR: Chazy Westport Communications/Westelcom

LADY DAY AT EMERSON’S BAR & GRILL
August 13-29, 2021
$25 preview on August 12
BY: Lanie Robertson
RATED: PG-13 (Content includes adult themes and language, including issues of race, substance abuse, and abusive relationships.)
PRODUCTION SPONSOR: Mountain Lake PBS

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 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 2021 Season is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature. Additional support is provided by the Essex County Arts Council.

MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of The Depot Theatre is to entertain, enrich, and educate through professional theatrical arts and related programs based in a historic train station.

VISION STATEMENT
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.

Depot Theatre awarded support for Academy outreach and education program

Above: Depot Theatre Academy participants rehearse dance steps during the 2020 Physically-Distant, Artistically Connected 2020 program. 
 
The Depot Theatre in Westport, New York has been awarded a $20,000 grant from the Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation to support the Depot Theatre Academy theatre outreach and education program.
 
The 2021 summer Depot Theatre Academy program, held at the Whallonsburg Grange Hall August 9-22, encompasses a junior program for young artists ages 8-12, and an enhanced senior program for participants ages 13 and older who are enrolled in school, home school, or college.
 
The Bailey Foundation grant funding will allow the Depot to promote and run its enhanced program, with all necessary PPE measures in place. Funding will be used for overall program support to help underwrite artist fees, necessary equipment upgrades due to the pandemic, and student tuition assistance.
 
“Our intention is to provide a robust educational experience for all of our area youth and a pathway for those interested in pursuing a profession in theatre,” said Kim Rielly, Depot Theatre Executive Director. “We’re grateful to the Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation for providing significant resources toward fulfilling one of our most important strategic goals: to offer the best educational youth theatre program possible to this rural, underserved area of northern New York.”
 
The 2021 Academy summer program will include workshops led by Equity professionals in acting, voice, and dance, culminating in three performances of this year’s production: INTO THE WOODS, JR. Senior Academy participants will also have the option to perform in a Cabaret. 2021 Depot Theatre Academy plans also include an accompaniment workshop and adult rep class.
 
“Despite the challenges of 2020, we’re proud to have successfully conducted a physically-distant and artistically-connected Academy program last summer,” said Kenney Green, Depot Theatre Producing Artistic Director. “We’re pleased that in 2021, we’ll introduce new workshops, and in addition to professional Equity instruction, our summer program will also include live performances as a culmination of the artists’ learning experience.” 
 
Registration for the summer academy program is available beginning April 1. Information about the program and other regional youth theatre opportunities can be found at www.DepotTheatre.org. 
 
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 Academy is made possible in part with a generous sponsorship from the Rogers-Carroll Family Foundation and by Depot Theatre Academy underwriter, the Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation, with special thanks to the Whallonsburg Grange Hall.  
 
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ABOUT THE CORNELIA T BAiLEY FOUNDATION
 
The Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation is a Florida-based private foundation focused on making grants to promote the arts, education and initiatives that seek to better our world utilizing nature and the sciences.The Foundation’s mission is to utilize its assets to assist any organization which seeks to promote the arts or create programs that not only inspire and engage but also teach. https://ctbfoundation.org/
 
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 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 2021 programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature. Additional support is provided by Essex County Arts Council. www.DepotTheatre.org

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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  • Depot Theatre Opens Season Pass Sales for 2026 Main Stage SeasonMarch 16, 2026 - 4:13 pm

    Summer lineup features Tick, Tick… Boom!, Incident at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, and Ring of Fire  WESTPORT, NY — The Depot Theatre opened sales for its 2026 Main Stage Season Pass Package on March 16, offering audiences an opportunity to secure seats for a summer of professional theatre in one of the Adirondacks’ most […]

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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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