The Community Foundation of Fayette County and the Chevron Community Fund awarded the State Theatre grants in spring 2018 to support Summer at the State. Over 3,000 people experienced the magic of Tinkerbell and the sound of 76 trombones at the productions of “Peter Pan” and “The Music Man.”
Since 1989 the State Theatre, and the overarching Greater Uniontown Heritage Consortium, has encouraged tourism and economic development of Fayette County and the surrounding areas through artistic enrichment. Summer at the State provides an opportunity for Western Pennsylvania residents to experience live, professional-level theatre performances at an affordable cost.
Erica Miller, Executive Director of the State Theatre, says, “The arts have always been an important means to express ideas, to build common ground, and to cultivate appreciation for the human condition. Our great hope is that through these productions, we can culturally benefit our community and its individuals.”
In addition to providing entertainment for the audience members, Summer at the State provides opportunities for local actors, musicians, volunteers and crew members to participate. The State Theatre specifically chooses productions that have large casts and popular titles to draw interest and encourage a high level of community involvement.
Summer at the State also hosted two educational summer camps for the first time in 2018, each a week long, to teach and inspire children about the performing arts. John Wagner III, Founder & Artistic Director of Summer at the State, hosts Musical Theatre Labs in months leading up to Summer at the State to encourage people to learn about the arts and feel more comfortable getting involved. The State Theatre provides a variety of opportunities for people to learn, enjoy and showcase the arts in a beautiful venue.
Visit statetheatre.info to learn more about the State Theatre and their upcoming shows.
Photos, in order, from productions of Peter Pan, The Music Man, Annie, Gyspy Act and Chicago. All photos were provided by the State Theatre Center for the Arts.
