Video teaser for FPAC's Humbug!

A family favorite since debuting as part of FPAC's 2008 season, Humbug! is an original musical retelling of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, starring the script's writer, Nick Paone, as Ebenezer Scrooge. 

With musical hits of every genre and live accompaniment by a 10-piece band of professional musicians, Humbug! transports audiences from Dickensian England to contemporary America as the novel's iconic characters and storyline are cleverly reimagined with modern setting and dialogue. 

Humbug! delivers a holiday gift of hilarity with a timely – and timeless – message!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5PrwKDDWftM



For tickets and more information, visit www.fpaconline.com or call the box office at 508-528-3370

Reminder: "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown" Nov 9 -10

Franklin Middle School Footlighters present "You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown." Performed by a cast of 50 kids from the 3 middle schools!

November 9 and 10 at 7:00 PM at the Horace Mann Middle School auditorium
Tickets $10 at the door

Franklin Middle School Footlighters present You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown

School of Rock The Musical - Youth Production - Nov 2, 3, and 4

Via Anne Gilberti:

"Looking for something to do this weekend come see this AMAZING Youth performance of School of Rock at the Stadium Theater in Woonsocket RI. 

It’s a great opportunity to expose your child(ren) to quality theater without paying the big $$$ in Boston. 

BONUS: Brigid Gilberti is in the cast! Check it out!!!!! You won’t be disappointed"

School of Rock The Musical - Youth Production - Nov 2, 3, and 4

Performances: Nov 2, 3 at 7:30 PM; Nov 4 at 2:30 PM
https://www.stadiumtheatre.com/events/school-of-rock-the-musical-youth-production/325?

Tickets: $16, $19

Run time: About 2.5 hours (Including Intermission)

Franklin Middle School Footlighters present You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown

Franklin Middle School Footlighters present You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown. Performed by a cast of 50 kids from the 3 middle schools!

November 9 and 10 at 7:00 at the HMMS auditorium
Tickets $10 at the door

Franklin Middle School Footlighters present You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown

The Classic Stones Live at Franklin High Auditorium - Nov 2

If you enjoyed Beatlemania last year than this is for you. This eight piece band is The Look, The Sound and The Show of the true Rolling Stones experience.

Tickets at Shaw's Markets or www.purplepass.com and Search for "Classic Stones Live"

Info at 413-341-7410

Classic Stones Live

When using purplepass, go direct to

https://www.purplepass.com/#172959/Music_Department-Classic_Stones_Live_Featuring_The_Glimmer_Twins-Franklin_High_School_Auditorium-November-02-2018.html

Local Teen Works With Broadway Star in FPAC’s Newsies

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC), the resident theatre company of THE BLACK BOX in Franklin, is bringing the best of Broadway to the suburbs October 13, 14 and 19-21 with its production of Disney’s Newsies. 

The show stars Broadway’s Christopher Rice (The Book of Mormon) and is choreographed by Chaz Wolcott who toured with Disney’s Newsies for two years, appeared in the live film version of the show from Hollywood’s Pantages Theatre, and was featured on FOX’s So You Think You Can Dance. The production also provides a once in a lifetime opportunity for Walpole teen Griffin Wilkins: the chance to understudy a Broadway star.

Griffin Wilkins, a senior at Walpole High School and the Franklin School for the Performing Arts, plays “Race” in Disney’s Newsies, a featured role that highlights his dance ability. However, in addition to mastering Wolcott’s intense choreography, Wilkins has the added task of understudying the lead role of Jack Kelly. Traditionally, an understudy is a member of a show’s ensemble who also covers a lead role in case the lead actor is sick or unable to perform. Wilkins has some added duties, explains director Raye Lynn Mercer. 

Griffin Wilkins

“We’ve had a unique rehearsal process for this show due to four of our leads being based in New York City. While the rest of our cast rehearses here in Franklin, Griffin has had to, quite literally, switch hats in the middle of scenes rehearsing his regular track as well as helping our ensemble understand where Christopher Rice will be during a scene.” The unique process has also taken Wilkins all the way to New York City. “Last week, we held a rehearsal in NYC for our cast members based there and Griffin was able to come along with us to help plug Christopher Rice in, as well as to clean the choreography and vocals,” explains Mercer.

Even at his young age, Wilkins is no stranger to the task of understudying a professional actor. Last March, he appeared as Judah in FPAC’s production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat in which he also understudied Equity actor Andrew Scott Holmes in the lead role of Joseph. This performance won Wilkins a DASH Award for Best Youth Actor in a Musical. 

“Working alongside Chris, knowing that I am understudying an incredibly talented and kind Broadway actor, is an experience like nothing I’ve had before,” says Wilkins, who is currently in the process of auditioning for collegiate Musical Theatre programs. “It is the chance of a lifetime.”

Disney’s Newsies runs October 13, 14 and 19-21 at THE BLACK BOX at 15 W. Central St. Franklin, MA 02038. Tickets can be purchased online at www.theblackboxonline.com or by calling the box office at 508-528-3370. 

Broadway’s Christopher Rice to star in Disney’s Newsies at THE BLACK BOX

Initial casting has been announced for the Franklin Performing Arts Company’s upcoming production of Disney’s Newsies running at THE BLACK BOX October 13,14 and 19-21. Broadway’s Christopher Rice (The Book of Mormon) will star as Jack Kelly, New York City-based actress, and Franklin native, Ali Funkhouser will play Katherine Plumber, and FPAC favorite Nick Paone will appear as Joseph Pulitzer. The production will be choreographed by Broadway cast member Clay Thomson. Additional casting will be announced at a later date.

Broadway’s Christopher Rice
to star in Disney’s Newsies

Christopher Rice appeared on Broadway in The Book of Mormon and in the national tours of West Side Story and Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Rice’s viral tap dance video series #TAPPY has been seen by over 3 million people worldwide. Ali Funkhouser’s credits include the national tours of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Evita. A former Equity actor, Nick Paone has traveled all over the US performing with TheaterWorks, USA. Paone’s regional credits include Cabaret, Macbeth, The Wedding Singer, Little Shop of Horrors, and Pirates of Penzance.

Broadway’s Clay Thomson made his Broadway debut in Newsies, playing Spot Conlon. After that, he was cast in the Original Broadway Cast of Matilda the Musical. His national tour credits include West Side Story and Wicked. Thomson has also made numerous television appearances, performing on shows such as Dancing with the Stars, The 2013 TONY Awards, The 2012 and 2013 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, The Late Show with David Letterman, The View, Good Morning America, and more. He is featured in the viral YouTube videos #TAPPY.

Based on the 1992 motion picture and inspired by a true story, Disney's Newsies features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken (Little Shop of Horrors, Sister Act) and Jack Feldman and a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein (Kinky Boots). It features the now classic songs “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize the Day,” and “Santa Fe.” Disney’s Newsies is packed with non-stop thrills and a timeless message, perfect for the whole family and every audience.

To purchase tickets or for more information about Disney’s Newsies presented by the Franklin Performing Arts Company, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.fpaconline.com. You can follow FPAC on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

FPAC announces 2018-2019 season

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) has announced its 2018-2019 season. The company’s 28th season will include Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (Sept. 21-23), Disney’s Newsies choreographed by Broadway cast member Clay Thomson (Oct. 13-14, 19-21), The Nutcracker (Dec. 1-2), Humbug! A Beggar’s Opera (Dec. 8-9), an original holiday panto by Nick Paone (Dec. 21-22), You Can’t Take it With You (Jan. 25-27), Seussical the Musical (Mar. 8-10, 15-17) , and Cabaret (Jun. 14-15). The season will close with the 12th annual Whatever Theater Festival (Jul. 31-Aug. 3).

The season opens in September at THE BLACK BOX in Franklin with Edward Albee's Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? The play examines the complexities of the marriage of a middle-aged couple, Martha and George. Late one evening, after a university faculty party, they receive an unwitting younger couple, Nick and Honey, as guests, and draw them into their bitter and frustrated relationship. Winner of the 1963 Tony Award for Best Play. The Broadway production of this play was a shattering and memorable experience and proclaimed the author as a major American playwright.

FPAC’s 5th annual season at THE BLACK BOX will continue in October with Disney’s Newsies. The production will feature choreography by Broadway’s Clay Thomson (Newsies, Matilda). Thomson is featured in the viral YouTube video #CupsTapDance as well as his most recent appearance in The Happy Tap Dance #TAPPY.

Tickets are already available for Disney’s Newsies and Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? at www.theblackboxonline.com or by calling (508) 528-3370.

FPAC announces 2018-2019 season

FSPA presents 42nd Street at THE BLACK BOX - Aug 16-17

FSPA Summer Theater will present an all-student production of the classic musical 42nd Street on August 16 and 17 at 7:30 pm at THE BLACK BOX in Franklin.

The ultimate show-biz musical, 42nd Street celebrates Broadway, Times Square, and the people who make the magic of musical theatre. Aspiring chorus girl Peggy Sawyer comes to the big city from Allentown PA, and soon lands her first big job in the ensemble of a glitzy new Broadway show. But just before opening night, the leading lady breaks her ankle. Will Peggy be able to step in and become a star? The score is chock-full of Broadway standards, including “You’re Getting To Be A Habit With Me,”“Dames,” “We’re In the Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” “Shuffle Off to Buffalo” and “Forty-Second Street.”

42nd Street will feature musical theatre students in grades 8‐12. The Summer Theater students grades 3‐8 will present a musical revue entitled 21st Street. Their show will include songs from 42nd Street along with dance numbers in the style of Gower Champion’s iconic chorus numbers. 21st Street will be presented August 17 at 5 pm at THE BLACK BOX.

The Summer Theater program at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts is an immersive experience in the production of a fully staged musical at THE BLACK BOX. Students will work with FSPA’s music, drama, and dance faculty for two weeks on staging, character development, choreography, and singing culminating in public performances of their shows at THE BLACK BOX.

Tickets for 42nd Street are $20 for students and $24 for adults. Tickets for 21st Street are $12 for students and $15 for adults. To purchase tickets, call 508.528.8668 or visit www.fspaonline.com.

FSPA presents 42nd Street at THE BLACK BOX  - Aug 16-17

“The Addams Family” on April 6 and 7 at Franklin High School

Devyn Forcina, Editor of Pantherbook, lets us know of the forthcoming student musical performance of "The Addams Family" at Franklin High School.

"Annually, Franklin High School has presented entertaining, enjoyable and inspiring spring musicals. This year, audience members will definitely be treated by the upcoming performances of “The Addams Family” directed by Mrs. Lonati, on April 6th and 7th. 

In the past, I have written articles about our spring musicals closer to the actual show date. In doing so, I have gotten to watch dress rehearsals in full costume, and see cast members totally off-book. The rehearsal I attended for this article was not as formal, however, the confidence and well-preparedness of the cast this early on was extremely impressive. Occasionally cast members would ask for a word of their script, but it seems as though only one word prompted an entire monologue. These students are very prepared."

Continue reading the article at Pantherbook
https://franklinpanthers.us/top-stories/2018/03/06/coming-soon-the-addams-family/

The performances are scheduled for April 6 and 7 at 7:00 PM.
Tickets at the door. Adults $15, Students $10

“The Addams Family” on April 6 and 7 at Franklin High School

"The Addams Family" at FHS - April 6 and 7

Devyn Forcina, Editor of Pantherbook, lets us know of the forthcoming student musical performance of "The Addams Family" at Franklin High School.

"Annually, Franklin High School has presented entertaining, enjoyable and inspiring spring musicals. This year, audience members will definitely be treated by the upcoming performances of “The Addams Family” directed by Mrs. Lonati, on April 6th and 7th. 

In the past, I have written articles about our spring musicals closer to the actual show date. In doing so, I have gotten to watch dress rehearsals in full costume, and see cast members totally off-book. The rehearsal I attended for this article was not as formal, however, the confidence and well-preparedness of the cast this early on was extremely impressive. Occasionally cast members would ask for a word of their script, but it seems as though only one word prompted an entire monologue. These students are very prepared."

Continue reading the article at Pantherbook
https://franklinpanthers.us/top-stories/2018/03/06/coming-soon-the-addams-family/

"The Addams Family" at FHS - April 6 and 7

The performances are scheduled for April 6 and 7 at 7:00 PM

@ 7pm!!

— FHS Theatre (@FranklinHSDrama) March 8, 2018

FPAC’S Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Plays Three Final Shows This Weekend

Franklin Performing Arts Company’s production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat concludes its six-show run this weekend at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin. Remaining show times are Friday, March 16 and Saturday, March 17 at 7:30, as well as Sunday, March 18 at 2:00. The hit family musical is a colorful and uplifting show for audiences of all ages.

Based on the biblical Joseph story, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat follows the trials and triumphs of Jacob’s favorite son in a high-adventure retelling of epic proportions. The lively Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice musical is entirely sung-through and boasts catchy songs of many musical styles, from country western and calypso to pop, disco, and rock ’n’ roll. Musical Director Hallie Wetzell leads the production’s professional orchestra.

Andrew Scott Holmes

Andrew Scott Holmes returns to the Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) stage to star in the title role, after almost two years at sea working for Princess Cruises as a Resident Guest Entertainer. An Actor’s Equity Association member, he has played leading roles and understudied Broadway stars at regional theaters, from Goodspeed Opera House to Great Lakes Theater to Playhouse Square and beyond. Andrew received his Bachelor of Music in Music Theatre from Baldwin Wallace University.

Franklin’s Ali Funkhouser (The Narrator) returns to Joseph for the third time, having appeared in the children’s ensemble of the 2004 national tour starring Patrick Cassidy and as The Narrator during her time at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts. Other credits include the national tour of Evita, Legally Blonde with The LEX, and Puccini’s Suor Angelica with Chelsea Opera (NYC). An Equity Membership Candidate, Ali will receive her Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Theatre from Oklahoma City University this spring.

Nick Paone, also from Franklin, performs the roles of Pharoah and Jacob. A former Equity actor, Nick has written and directed numerous shows, produced an evening of one-act plays in NYC, and traveled extensively performing with Theater Works. A frequent FPAC performer and director, Nick is the creative mind behind FPAC’s annual holiday pantos and original productions Humbug! A Beggar’s Opera and Zero: A Musical Fable.

Casey Harkness Andrade (Mrs. Potiphar), of Lincoln, RI, has been a professional choreographer, educator, and performer for more than 10 years. An adjunct faculty member at Rhode Island College, Casey is an adjudicator and choreographer for the Elite Dance Challenge regional and national competition. Recent FPAC credits include The Addams Family (Morticia) and Monty Python’s Spamalot.

Raye Lynn Mercer directs FPAC’s production, which also features many local performers and students of the arts, including a children’s choir. FPAC Costumer Merrie Whitney, of Franklin, has designed the entire show, with special attention to Joseph’s iconic coat. Middlesex Savings Bank is the Production Sponsor. 

Tickets are $34, with general seating. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call 508-528-3370. THE BLACK BOX theater, music, and event venue is located at 15 West Central Street. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is presented by arrangement with The Musical Company, LP.

Hit Family Musical Highlights March Events at THE BLACK BOX

THE BLACK BOX presents an exciting line-up of live music and theatrical entertainment this March. Programming will bring NYC-based Broadway stars, talented local artists, and a colorful family musical to the theater, music and event venue in downtown Franklin.

On Friday, March 2 at 8 p.m., THE BLACK BOX Local Artist Series presents “The Gershwin-Porter Songbook,” featuring vocalist Cindy Jones. The evening will showcase American music of George Gershwin and Cole Porter, two of the most prolific composers of the 20th century. Their music remains as fresh and irresistible as it did during the Jazz Age. Cindy Jones, along with special guest Alan Mercer, will be joined by a nine-piece band of some of the area’s finest musicians, conducted by Bill Jones. Tickets are $20.

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) presents the hit family musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, on Saturday, March 10 at 2:00 and 7:30; Sunday, March 11 at 2:00; Friday, March 16 and Saturday, March 17 at 7:30; and Sunday, March 18 at 2:00. Based on the biblical Joseph story, the lively Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice musical follows the trials and triumphs of Jacob’s favorite son in a high-adventure retelling of epic proportions. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is an uplifting show for audiences of all ages. 

Joseph and the Amazing
Technicolor Dreamcoat

Andrew Scott Holmes returns to the FPAC stage to star in the title role, after almost two years at sea working for Princess Cruises as a Resident Guest Entertainer. An Actor’s Equity Association member, he has played leading roles and understudied Broadway stars at regional theaters, from Goodspeed Opera House to Great Lakes Theater to Playhouse Square and beyond. Tickets are $34. Middlesex Savings Bank is the production sponsor. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is presented by arrangement with The Musical Company, LP.

Electric Youth 2018, the international touring ensemble of talented young singer-dancers, returns to THE BLACK BOX on Friday evening, March 23 at 7:30, offering family entertainment for all ages. Backed by an eight-piece band of world-class musicians, Electric Youth presents fully choreographed, high-energy music, including pop, classic rock, Broadway and country hits. Tickets are $26.

The Electric Youth show opens FPAC’s annual Broadway In Franklin weekend, which concludes with a cabaret-style revue on Sunday, March 25 at 3 p.m., featuring Broadway headliners Tyrick Wiltez Jones and Nikki Snelson, as well as appearances by Electric Youth and musical theater students from the Franklin School for the Performing Arts. Nikki Snelson originated the role of Brooke Wyndham in the 2007 original Broadway production of Legally Blonde: The Musical. Other Broadway credits include Annie Get Your Gun (starring opposite Bernadette Peters) and Sweet Charity. National tours include Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Hello Dolly (starring Carol Channing), Showboat and tick, tick…BOOM! Tyrick Wiltez Jones was recently seen as Gary in the world-premiere Broadway preview of Johnny Manhattan. Additional Broadway credits include Finian’s Rainbow and Hairspray. National tours include Miss Saigon, Seussical, Fosse and Showboat. Tickets are $25 (adults) and $22 (students/seniors).

THE BLACK BOX Local Artist Series presents Yookeroo on Saturday, March 24 at 8 p.m. A progressive rock quartet based in Massachusetts, Yookeroo has played across the northeast and recently released their first full-length album, Into the Æther. Tickets are $15.

For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call (508) 528-3370. The home of the Franklin Performing Arts Company, THE BLACK BOX is located at 15 West Central Street.

FSPA Presents "Shrek The Musical" - All Student Teen Production - Feb 10-11

Shrek the Musical is a stage musical adaptation of the 2001 Academy Award-winning, smash hit animated movie. Based on the children's book by William Steig about a green ogre who saves a princess, the musical comedy spoofs fairy tale characters and themes and playfully pokes fun of pop culture. With sight gags, slapstick and tongue-in-cheek humor, Shrek offers nonstop family entertainment.

FSPA Presents "Shrek The Musical"
Feb 10-11

The production showcases a supporting cast of characters that includes fairytale favorites Pinocchio, Peter Pan, Three Little Pigs, Big Bad Wolf, Fairy Godmother, Humpty Dumpty, Ugly Duckling and many more. With book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and music by Jeanine Tesori, Shrek creatively explores such universal themes as friendship and acceptance in a way that connects with audiences of all ages.

Saturday, February 10, 2:00 PM
Saturday, February 10, 7:30 PM
Sunday, February 11, 2:00 PM

For tickets and additional information
https://www.fspaonline.com/events.php?id=1091

Andrew Scott Holmes To Star In FPAC’s "Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat"

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) is pleased to announce initial casting for the upcoming production of the hit family musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Andrew Scott Holmes will play the title role of Joseph, with Ali Funkhouser as The Narrator.

After almost two years at sea working for Princess Cruises as a Resident Guest Entertainer, Holmes returns home to take the stage with FPAC. After attending Baldwin Wallace University to obtain a Bachelor of Music in Music Theatre, Andrew has been traveling the world working in regional theatre and cruise ships alike. From Goodspeed Opera House to Great Lakes Theater to Playhouse Square and beyond, Andrew has played leading roles and has understudied Broadway stars. He is a member of Actor’s Equity Association and will appear at THE BLACK BOX under a special appearance agreement. 

Andrew Scott Holmes

FPAC and Joseph director Raye Lynn Mercer notes, “Our first guest contract at THE BLACK BOX brings to our stage Andrew Scott Holmes as Joseph, and opens the door for us to feature FPAC alumni who are now working professionally.” Returning to his Franklin School for the Performing Arts and FPAC roots, Holmes will share the stage with friends, his theatre family, and talented stars of tomorrow.

Ali Funkhouser

Funkhouser is returning to Joseph for the third time, having appeared in the children’s ensemble of the 2004 national tour starring Patrick Cassidy, and as The Narrator during her time at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts. Other credits include the national tour of Evita, Legally Blonde with The LEX, and Puccini’s Suor Angelica with Chelsea Opera (NYC). An Equity Membership Candidate, she will receive her Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Theatre this spring from Oklahoma City University, where she appeared in productions of Hairspray, Company, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Curtains, and Shakespeare’s Pericles.

Both local stars are alumni of the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA), veteran actors with FPAC, and former members of Electric Youth. Holmes has appeared in FPAC productions of Footloose (Ren), Into the Woods (Jack), The Nutcracker (Nutcracker Prince/Russian), ’Tis the Season! (Featured Vocalist), West Side Story, and more. Funkhouser’s FPAC credits include Little Shop of Horrors (Audrey), The Sound of Music (Liesl), Humbug! (Freddie), Annie (Star-to-Be), and several solo cabarets.

Under the direction of Raye Lynn Mercer, with musical direction by Hallie Wetzell, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat will be staged for six performances on March 10 and 11 and March 16-18 at THE BLACK BOX, 15 West Central Street in Franklin. The box office is open and tickets are available by visiting THEBLACKBOXonline.com. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is presented by arrangement with The Musical Company, LP.

Ring In The Holidays With Two FPAC Original Musicals

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) celebrates the holiday season with two original FPAC musicals, Alice in a Winter Wonderland and ’Tis the Season! The productions are family friendly, festive, and full of fun for audiences of all ages.

FPAC’s large-cast holiday musical, ’Tis the Season!, will be presented on Saturday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 10 at 2 p.m. at the Franklin High School auditorium, located at 18 Oak Street. An FPAC family favorite since debuting as part of the 1995 season, ‘Tis is an upbeat, jazzy extravaganza featuring members of the Kenny Hadley Big Band, with contemporary arrangements of favorite holiday classics in musical styles ranging from R&B, gospel, and Motown to rock, pop, and Broadway. 

Highlights include Andy William’s “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” Quincy Jones’ sensational version of the “Hallelujah Chorus,” songs from several popular television holiday specials, and many surprises.

With a twist on the Alice in Wonderland children’s classic, FPAC’s third annual panto, Alice in a Winter Wonderland, debuts this season at THE BLACK BOX, located at 15 West Central Street in downtown Franklin. Performances are on Friday, December 22 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, December 23 at 2:00 and 7:30. 

The production follows in the tradition of a British panto, a type of show that retells a well-known fairy tale in an exaggerated style filled with audience participation, popular music, slapstick comedy, jokes, dances, and more. Audiences are invited to cheer for the hero, boo at the villain, and sing along with some of their favorite songs. The panto also entertains with double entendre, references to modern culture, and open satire of other works.

Founded in 1991, FPAC presents the holiday musicals as part of the company’s 27th season. With a focus on youth development and a commitment to live music, the nonprofit FPAC supports educational arts experiences, quality entertainment, and outstanding performance opportunities for professional artists, community performers, and students of the arts. 

Tickets are $34 for Alice in a Winter Wonderland and $32-$36 for ’Tis the Season! For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or www.FPAConline.com or call (508) 528-3370. Middlesex Savings Bank and Waters Corporation are FPAC 2017 Holiday Sponsors.

Ring In The Holidays With Two FPAC Original Musicals

We Did It For You! - Women's Journey Through History - Dec 10

"We Did It For You! Women's Journey Through History tells the story of how women got their rights in the United States. With catchy musical numbers and a dash of comic relief, this highly entertaining and educational musical is a must see for teens and adults. 

In a time when our rights are being questioned, We Did It For You! shines light on how we got to where we are. Q&A with playwright and cast. Reception to follow sponsored by Starbucks. $10 tickets ($5 students). 

This program is supported in part by a grant from the Natick Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency."

"This heartwarming play takes audiences on a profound emotional journey that results in a deepened awareness of, and appreciation for, women in history upon whose shoulders we stand today. I urge you to run, don't walk, to see this magnificent performance!” - Women's Information Network

We Did It For You! Women's Journey Through History - Dec 10

Common Street Spiritual Center

13 Common St, Natick, Massachusetts 01760

Additional info can be found on the Facebook event page
https://www.facebook.com/events/126967471329405/

FPAC To Stage 3 Holiday Season Productions

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) celebrates the holidays with three festive productions. Ring in the season with Tchaikovsky’s timeless ballet The Nutcracker, FPAC’s original musical ’Tis the Season!, and the Company’s third annual holiday panto, with a twist on a fairy tale classic.

The Nutcracker remains a highly anticipated and treasured part of the FPAC season – a popular holiday tradition for more than 20 years. Set to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, the world-famous ballet delights the imaginations of audiences of all ages with festive magic and colorful splendor. FPAC’s production is presented with professional orchestra, special guest artists, and more than 100 area dancers. 

FPAC invites audiences to fall under Drosselmeyer’s dreamy spell and join Clara and her Nutcracker Prince on a journey full of surprises and wonder. FPAC presents The Nutcracker on Saturday, December 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 3 at 2 p.m. at the Franklin High School auditorium, located at 218 Oak Street. Middlesex Savings Bank is The Nutcracker 2017 Production Sponsor.

FPAC To Stage 3 Holiday Season Productions

’Tis the Season! is an original large cast musical first presented by FPAC in 1995. The upbeat, jazzy holiday extravaganza features members of the Kenny Hadley Big Band and contemporary arrangements of favorite holiday classics in musical styles ranging from R&B, gospel, and Motown to rock, pop, and Broadway. FPAC presents ’Tis the Season! at the Franklin High School auditorium on Saturday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 10 at 2 p.m.

FPAC’s original panto will be staged at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin on Friday, December 22 at 7:30 p.m., with two shows on Saturday, December 23 at 2:00 and 7:30. The production follows in the British tradition, retelling a well-known fairy tale in an exaggerated style filled with audience participation, popular music, slapstick comedy, jokes, dances, and more. Audiences are invited to cheer for the hero, boo at the villain, and sing along to favorite songs. The panto also entertains with double entendre, references to modern culture, and open satire of other works. THE BLACK BOX theatre, music, and event venue is located at 15 West Central Street. 

Founded in 1991, the nonprofit FPAC supports educational arts experiences, quality entertainment and outstanding performance opportunities for professional artists, community performers, and students of the arts. With a focus on youth development and a commitment to live music, FPAC celebrates its 27th season. 

Tickets are $32, $34, and $36 for The Nutcracker and ’Tis the Season!, with a $34 ticket price for the holiday panto. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.FPAConline.com.

Beatlemania Stage Show - Nov 3 - Special Student Ticket Prices ($10 at the door)

The Franklin High School music students are preparing for their participation in the Beatlemania concert being held at Franklin High School November 3 at 7:30 PM.

The music students will be performing back up instrumentation on a few songs with the national touring production of Beatlemania Stage Show. Students will perform on the songs “Yesterday” with the school’s orchestra; “Sgt. Pepper” with the marching band and “Yellow Submarine” with the chorus.

The concert is a benefit to offset some of the expenses for the school’s music department’s trip to Washington DC in the spring for a music festival and competition.

The concert is titled “Help Keep Music Education Alive” which benefits music education programs throughout New England.

The concert is a full professional production with big venue sound and lighting brought in to facilitate the concert experience. Paul Lococo event organizer said “The Franklin High School has a brand new state of the art auditorium and will be a nice place to stage such a production.” 

The Beatlemania Stage Show is the complete Beatle’s experience with period costume changes and vintage Beatle’s instruments. The show will take you from the Beatle’s early years from the Ed Sullivan days to Sgt. Pepper’s Magical Mystery Tour and beyond.

Help Keep Music Education Alive - Nov 3

Diane Plouffe, the Franklin High School Music Director said “This is a unique community event supporting the music students and a fun event for both the students and the community.”

“The show is educational for our students as well as they learn the music of the Beatle’s and get to perform in a professional production right here at Franklin High.” Stated Plouffe.

Tickets for the show are on sale at Purplepass.com and Shaw’s Market in Franklin

Saturday night at THE BLACK BOX - "The 60s A Musical Tribute"

SATURDAY NIGHT! THE BLACK BOX presents Featuring  JAMIE  BARRETT              ALAN MERCER                  NICK PAONE               KATIE GRAY                 KYLEE ROLLINS   Hosted by     RAYE LYNN MERCER Enjoy music and moments from a monumental decade with sensational singers and musicians, sixties cocktails, throwback trivia and a groovy vibe! TWO SHOWS AT 7:00 and 8:30   ORDER TICKETS NOW!

Franklin Performing Arts Company uses Vendini for ticketing, marketing, and box office management.

Franklin Performing Arts Company - PO Box 48, 15 West Central Street, Franklin, MA, 02038, (508) 528-3370
Vendini, Inc. - 660 Market Street, San Francisco, CA, 94104, 1 (800) 901-7173

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