Players of Utica’s 35-year community tradition of SCROOGE comes to an end this December. The production begun in 1981 as a main fundraising event that helped to sustain the Players of Utica Theater on Oxford Road in New Hartford. Rising production costs and declining profits have led to this decision to end the tradition.
“The reason for ending the show is purely economic,” Jo-Ann Mammone-Mox, Players of Utica’s board vice president of marketing and development said. “With increasing costs in royalties, rents and wages, it is no longer profitable to keep the show going. It is with a heavy heart that this decision was made as this show plays host to many generations of families that share the stage or enjoy the performances each a year.“
Over the years, the cast has grown from 36 to more than 200 actors, crew and volunteers. The show has been produced for 34 years; there was a 1-year break while the Stanley Theatre underwent renovations. SCROOGE will see its final curtain at the Stanley Theatre Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016.
Players wishes to thank Director Peter Loftus, the community, the many cast members, families and volunteers that have supported the Players of Utica Theatre and shared our vision for the past 35 years. Events are in the works to celebrate this long local history – details will be released in the coming weeks.
Those interested in participating in the final production of SCROOGE are asked to save November 1 st and 2 nd for auditions – location and times to be announced once secured.
FINAL PUBLIC PERFORMANCES:
- Friday, December 9, 2016 at 7:30 pm
- Saturday, December 10, 2016 at 2:00 pm
FINAL SCHOOL PERFORMANCE:
- Thursday, December 8, 2016 at 10:00 am
*Special performance for schools and organizations only – not open to the general public.
Public Performance Ticket Price: $15 ($12 to Players of Utica, $3 fee to Stanley Theatre)
About Players of Utica
Players of Utica is a non-profit community theatre that has been continuously producing shows in central New York since 1913. We have engaged more than 1 million individuals with affordable, first-class community theatre. Players of Utica is an equal opportunity community theatre organization. For more information, a complete history, and to support or participate, visit www.playersofutica.org or “Like” us on Facebook.