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CELEBRATING 70 SEASONS

Taking the Stage, Together

Over the past 70 years, Grosse Pointe Theatre has been home to awe-inspiring and toe-tapping performances on our Main Stage, bold new theatrical works in the Purdon Studio Theatre, and energetic, fun filled productions with our Youth on Stage program. We take seriously our role as the “people’s theater” by creating high quality, 100% volunteer produced theatrical experiences.

We’re embarking on a new direction for our 2017-2018 season, staging our productions in four impressive local venues. As we celebrate our 70th Anniversary, we are asking you, the community, to join us as we stand together Bringing Community Theater to the Community.

Grosse Pointe Theatre is your community theater. Our long-standing relationship with Grosse Pointe patrons, the communities of Southeast Michigan, and our dedicated members, enable us to deliver theater that entertains, educates and enlightens our many theatergoers. We echo your voice through creative expression, fulfilling our mission of theatrical excellence, and reaffirming the passionate heritage of our community.

Come invest in your community theater by renewing or purchasing a season ticket subscription. Engage with us in a conversation about the legacy of our esteemed history that reaches beyond our 70 seasons and 300+ shows as we look ahead to a vibrant future for generations to come.

Thank you for supporting us for the past 70 years. We look forward to 70 more!

“Grosse Pointe Theatre has enjoyed the faithful and consistent support of patrons in Southeast Michigan. We are grateful to them for enabling us to provide quality productions through our 70th year of community service.”

William J. GiovanMember Since 1953

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Grosse Pointe Theatre thanks the Michigan Council for the Arts and Cultural Affairs, The National Endowment for the Arts, and Bloomberg Philanthropies for their continuedsupport.

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2017-2018 SEASON ANNOUNCEMENT

Thank You!

Bringing Community Theater to the Community is what we love to do.

We are deeply grateful to our patrons for supporting Grosse Pointe Theatre for the past 70 years. Your season ticket purchases and patronage have helped build a performing arts experience that those in Grosse Pointe and the greater Detroit area can enjoy. The excitement and thrills created on our Main Stage by our volunteer membership speak to the creativity and technical excellence we share with our guests who leave our shows fully entertained.

You’ve witnessed the magic firsthand. Embark with us now on a more intimate patron experience in four new venues when you purchase tickets for an unforgettable 2017-2018 season.

2017 – 2018 Main Stage Season:

“I joined GPT 52 years ago for the joy of singing. But I’ve received so much more – opportunities to grow in various areas of theater and a wonderful extended family of genuinely nice and talented people. Our GPT patrons are an extension of that family, allowing us to grow creatively and contribute to our community. I am grateful for this privilege and honor.”

Ruth Ellen MayhallMember Since 1965

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THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE

Libretto by W.S. GILBERTMusic by ARTHUR SULLIVAN

Directed by RACHEL SETTLAGE

September 17, 21 - 24, 28 - 30, 2017

Set sail with our band of hapless, sentimental buccaneers, bumbling British bobbies, frolicsome Victorian maidens, and the delightful “model of a modern Major-General”

for a rollicking romp on the rocky coast of Cornwall. This hilarious, hopeful farce follows young Frederic, an orphan mistakenly apprenticed to an ineffectual but raucous band of

pirates. Together they invade England’s favorite holiday spot with chaotic results. This uproarious comedy boasts the beauty, wit and whimsy of Gilbert & Sullivan’s classic score.

Performance Location:University Liggett School Auditorium

1045 Cook Rd., Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236

“The swashbuckling adventure! The fabulous fun! The rollicking romance! Everything you want in a musical!”

Rachel Settlage, DirectorMember Since 2011

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THE 1940’s RADIO HOUR

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“Fun, funny and fanciful! The 1940’s Radio Hour harkens back to a bygone era when there was a need for good, valuable family entertainment in challenging times.”

Marty Bufalini, DirectorMember Since 1983

Book by WALTON JONESBased on a idea by WALTON JONES and CAROL LEES

Music by VARIOUS COMPOSERS

Directed by MARTY BUFALINI

December 3, 7 – 10, 14 – 16, 2017

Christmas, 1942. The world was at war and everyone pulled together for the cause. We all looked out for each other and we knew how to make our lives more enjoyable through the magic of radio. We will take you inside the studio where the cast and crew of “Mutual Manhattan Variety Cavalcade” are getting ready for a live broadcast to the folks at home and the troops overseas. You become the audience for that nostalgic broadcast – a totally

exhilarating evening of music, commercial ditties and rich memories of the era.

Performance Location:University Liggett School Auditorium

1045 Cook Rd., Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236

Presented through special arrangement with Samuel French Inc.

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PETER AND THE STARCATCHER

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“Featuring a dozen actors portraying more than 100 unforgettable characters, Peter and the Starcatcher uses ingenious stagecraft and the limitless possibilities of imagination to bring the story to life!”

Kevin Fitzhenry, DirectorMember Since 2009

A Play by RICK ELICEBased on the Novel by DAVE BARRY and RIDLEY PEARSON

Music by WAYNE BARKEROriginally produced on Broadway by NANCY NAGEL GIBBS,

GREG SCHAFFERT, EVA PRICE, TOM SMEDES and DISNEY THEATRICALS

Directed by KEVIN FITZHENRY

January 21, 25 - 28, February 1 – 3, 2018

This Tony-winning play, based on the best-selling novel, upends the century-old story of how a miserable orphan boy becomes the legendary Peter Pan. From marauding pirates and jungle tyrants to unwilling comrades and unlikely heroes, Peter and the Starcatcher

playfully explores the depths of greed and despair and the bounds of friendship, duty and love.

Performance Location:Pierce Auditorium

15430 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230

Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI)www.mtishows.com

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HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING

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Book by ABE BURROWS, JACK WEINSTOCK and WILLIE GILBERTMusic and Lyrics by FRANK LOESSER

Based on How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying by SHEPHERD MEAD

Directed by DENNIS WICKLINE

March 11, 15 - 18, 22 - 24, 2018

Big business means big laughs in this delightfully clever lampoon of life on the corporate ladder. With the aid of a little handbook called How to Succeed in Business Without Really

Trying, J. Pierrepont Finch rises from lowly window washer to high-powered executive. This tune-filled comic gem took Broadway by storm, winning seven Tony

Awards and a Pulitzer Prize. It is jam-packed with sly, swift and sharp jabs to the funny bone and boasts an exhilarating score by Frank Loesser.

Performance Location:Pierce Auditorium

15430 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230

Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI)www.mtishows.com

“It’s Mad Men meets musical theater! A must-see musical comedy!”

Dennis Wickline, DirectorMember Since 1973

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42ND STREET

June 17, 21 - 24, 28 - 30, 2018

HEAR THE BEAT OF DANCING FEET!This quintessential backstage musical comedy classic tells the story of Peggy Sawyer, a talented young performer with stars in her eyes. Fresh off the bus from Allentown, she arrives in New York City armed with her tap shoes and big dreams. As she sings and

tap-tap-taps her way to her big break on Broadway, you will be humming along to classics like “We’re in the Money”, “The Lullaby of Broadway”, “Shuffle Off to Buffalo”, and of

course, “42nd Street”!

“It’s the mother of all showbiz musicals. Tap dancing! Colorful characters! Unforgettable music! Tap dancing…on a dime! A happy ending! Did I mention tap dancing?”

Don Bischoff, DirectorMember Since 2001

Presented through special arrangement with Tams-Witmark Music Library

Performance Location:Christian A. Fenton Performing Arts Center at

Grosse Pointe North High School707 Vernier Rd., Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236

Music by HARRY WARRENLyrics by AL DUBIN

Book by MICHAEL STEWART & MARK BRAMBLEBased on the Novel by BRADFORD ROPES

Original Direction and Dances by GOWER CHAMPIONOriginally Produced on Broadway by DAVID MERRICK

The use of all songs is by arrangement with Warner Bros., the owner of music publishers’ rights.

Directed by DON BISCHOFF

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PURDON STUDIO THEATRE

“This seemingly funny and jolting play takes the audience on a journey that is engrossing, surprising and satisfying.”

Jerry Nehr, DirectorMember Since 2010

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By JON ROBIN BAITZ

Directed by JERRY NEHR

February 15 – 18, 22 – 25, 2018

In this dark comedy about a dramatic family, once-promising novelist Brooke Wyeth returns home to Palm Springs after a six-year absence to celebrate Christmas with her

wealthy parents, her brother, and her aunt. The reunion erupts into chaos when Brooke announces that she is about to publish a memoir dredging up an explosive and tragic

event in the family’s history, a skeleton they staunchly prefer to keep in the closet. Politics collide, tempers flare, and long-held secrets come to light in this fierce and funny story of

a family that must come to grips with the past.

Performance Location:Grosse Pointe Woods Presbyterian Church

19950 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236

Presented through special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service

About Purdon Studio TheatrePurdon Studio Theatre is dedicated to presenting non-traditional theater in an intimate setting. The term “non-traditional” may refer to the choice of a contemporary, edgy, or more controversial play or it may be a new and unconventional way of presenting a classic piece. Because of the close proximity of the audience to the stage, the audience becomes intimately involved with scenes and the characters.

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2017-2018 PERFORMANCE LOCATIONS

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2017-2018 PERFORMANCE LOCATIONS

University Liggett School Auditorium1045 Cook Rd | Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236 •The Pirates of Penzance (Sept 2017) •The1940’sRadioHour(Dec 2017)

Pierce Auditorium15430 Kercheval Ave | Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230 •Peter and the Starcatcher (Jan-Feb 2018) •HowtoSucceedinBusinessWithoutReallyTrying(Mar 2018)

Christian A. Fenton Performing Arts Center at Grosse Pointe North High School707 Vernier Rd | Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236 •42ndStreet(Jun 2018)

Grosse Pointe Woods Presbyterian Church19950 Mack Ave | Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236 •AChristmasCarol – Youth on Stage (Nov 2017) •OtherDesertCities– Purdon Studio Theatre (Feb 2018) •HighSchoolMusicalJr.– Youth on Stage (Apr 2018)

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“As a member for over 30 years, GPT has personally touched my life more than I could have ever imagined. Having been involved with multiple GPT productions has been richly rewarding indeed. It has been the friendships that have become family that I cherish the most. We extend our appreciation and gratitude to our patrons for their continued support and steadfast generosity. You are the cornerstone of our success – Thank you!”

Timothy HigginsMember Since 1984

Grosse Pointe Theatre Ticket Office & Rehearsal Space315 Fisher Rd | Grosse Pointe, MI 48230

Phone: 313-881-4004Online: www.gpt.org

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UNIVERSITY LIGGETT SCHOOL

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“As a second-generation GPT member, I am fortunate to call two places home!”

Anna ChrismanMember Since 2011

University Liggett School Auditorium

Address:1045 Cook Rd, Grosse Pointe Woods MI 48236

Performances at this location:The Pirates of Penzance (Sept 2017)The1940’sRadioHour(Dec 2017)

PARKING:Complimentary valet parking is available for all patrons.

Additional parking is available in the school lots across Cook Rd. and at Monteith Elementary School.

Please use the main school entrance for access to the auditorium.

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PIERCE AUDITORIUM

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Pierce Auditorium

Address:15430 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Park MI 48230

Performances at this location:Peter and the Starcatcher (Jan – Feb 2018)

HowtoSucceedinBusinessWithoutReallyTrying(Mar 2018)

PARKING:Complimentary valet parking is available for all patrons.

Additional parking is available in the lot behind the school, and at Defer Elementary School or on the street.

“I joined GPT in 1972, took a 19 year hiatus to raise my family, and upon return, was welcomed back as if I never left!”

Jacquelyne PfaffMember Since 1972

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CHRISTIAN A. FENTON PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

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Christian A. Fenton Performing Arts Centerat Grosse Pointe North High School

Address:707 Vernier Rd., Grosse Pointe Woods MI 48236

Performances at this location:42ndStreet(Jun 2018)

PARKING:Parking is available in the Grosse Pointe North parking lot.

“The August, 1996 membership meeting was my family’s first exposure to GPT. We were warmly greeted by Mike Evans, the consummate theater professional and the consummate gentleman. He took Laura and me under his wing and made us feel welcome. Seventeen years later, my son Jeremy received the nicest compliment he could have ever received, when Mike’s widow, Emmajean, said of his performance, “He reminds me of a young Mike.” GPT – a very special family.”

Stan Harr Member Since 1996

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GROSSE POINTE WOODS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

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Grosse Pointe Woods Presbyterian Church

Address:19950 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Woods MI 48236

Performances at this location:AChristmasCarol– Youth on Stage (Nov 2017)

OtherDesertCities– Purdon Studio Theatre (Feb 2018)HighSchoolMusicalJr.– Youth on Stage (Apr 2018)

PARKING:Handicap parking is available behind the church. Additional parking is

available in the two lots across Torrey Rd. and Mack Ave.

SEATING:Seating for this venue is on a first-come, first-served basis.

“Working with GPT was an eye-opening experience for me. I loved seeing the transformation from ideas on paper to a full stage produc-tion. I learned so much about acting and bringing energy to a role.”

Sidni GoodmanMember Since 2012

YOUTH ON STAGE

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“Our Youth on Stage Program helps young people to display confidence, creativity and leadership, while bringing imagination alive.”

Emmajean EvansMember Since 1971

Grosse Pointe Theatre’s dedication to community is highlighted by our commitment to providing theater arts opportunities to interested children. Beginning in 2001 with our initial Act One curriculum, today’s Youth on Stage program has evolved and grown into highly successful learning experience for children ages six to fourteen. Grosse Pointe Theatre members bring years of wisdom to the classroom, providing a safe, cooperative and fun environment where boys and girls can develop a positive self-image and hopefully begin their love of live theater.

November 17 – 19, 2017 April 20 – 22, 2018

Tickets: $10 Adults / $5 Students

Performance Location:Grosse Pointe Woods Presbyterian Church

19950 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236

SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

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“GPT is the kind of place you never want to leave. It is my second home. I want to thank our patrons and members for being so generous and donating to our scholarship fund.”

Erica ClarkeMember Since 2016

For over 30 years, GPT has annually provided high school students the opportunity to receive an award that seniors use toward their college tuition and undergrads use toward a fine arts camp or workshop anywhere in the United States.

The money to fund this scholarship program comes from our members, patrons and donors…to the tune of almost $200,000 since the scholarship’s inception. Awards are given for both theatrical performance and technical work. To win, students must prepare, memorize and perform two monologues (one dramatic and one

humorous) with the option to sing and/or dance. Technical winners have been awarded for set design, stage management and more. GPT adjudicators determine winners and every student receives constructive feedback.

Over the years, students have returned to perform in our main stage productions. Some, such as past scholarship winner Andrew Keenan-Bolger, have gone on to receive Broadway and National theater acclaim.

TICKET INFORMATION

By Phone:Call 313-881-4004 to order season or individual tickets.

By Mail: Complete and send the attached form with payment to 315 Fisher Road, Grosse Pointe, MI 48230.

Online: You may purchase individual tickets on our website: www.gpt.org. Tickets will appear on your credit card statement as “PAYPAL GPT TICKETS” or “PAYPAL GROSSE PTE THEATRE.” You may receive an online confirmation email from Grosse Pointe Theatre and Vendini, upon purchase.

Student Rush: Students with identification may obtain half-price tickets on the day of a performance if tickets are available Student rush tickets are not available online.

Group Rates: Grosse Pointe Theatre is pleased to accommodate your group’s theater outing for our main stage productions. Groups of 20 or more receive a $4 per ticket discount and groups of 10-19 receive a $2 per ticket discount. Call 313-881-4004.

Gift Cards: Give that special someone the gift of theater! Call 313-881-4004.

Special Seating: If special seating is required for any reason, please mention this when ordering your tickets.

Ticket Exchange: Tickets may be exchanged for another performance, based on availability. There is a $3 per ticket exchange fee.

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“It is with a grateful heart that I thank and honor you, our beloved patrons, for fueling our passion and commitment to bring you quality theater, and challenging us through your unwavering support.”

Kathy MorrisMember Since 1978

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ORDER FORM 2017-18 SEASON PRODUCTIONS SPECIAL PRODUCTIONS

SORRY, NO REFUNDS OR RESALES

SEASON PACKAGE: $95 SERIES # OF PACKAGES PRICE TOTAL PRICE $95

TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION TOTAL ENCLOSED

INDIVIDUAL TICKETS: SHOW DATE TIME # OF TICKETS PRICE INDIVIDUAL TICKET TOTALS

5 PRODUCTIONS FOR THE PRICE OF 4! To order season tickets please choose from the above highlighted series.

Individual tickets may be purchased by phone at 313-881-4004 or online at www.gpt.org

METHOD OF PAYMENT: Check payable to Grosse Pointe Theatre

Charge Card Number:

Exp. Date: Security # :

Name: Address:

City: Zip:

Phone: Email:

$25 $25 $20 $25 $25 $5/$10 $5/$10 $15 SUN 9/17 12/3 1/21 3/11 6/17 Series A 2:00 2:00 2:00 2:00 2:00 THU 9/21 12/7 1/25 3/15 6/21 2/15 Series B 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 FRI 9/22 12/8 1/26 3/16 6/22 11/17 4/20 2/16 Series C 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 7:00 7:00 8:00 SAT 9/23 12/9 1/27 3/17 6/23 11/18 4/21 2/17 Series D 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 2:00 2:00 8:00

SUN 9/24 12/10 1/28 3/18 6/24 11/19 4/22 2/18 2:00 2:00 2:00 Series E 2:00 2:00 2:00 2:00 2:00 THU 9/28 12/14 2/1 3/22 6/28 2/22 Series F 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00

FRI 9/29 12/15 2/2 3/23 6/29 2/23 Series G 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 SAT 9/30 12/16 2/3 3/24 6/30 2/24 Series H 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 8:00 SUN 2/25 2:00

Tickets will appear on your credit card statement as “PAYPAL GPT TICKETS”, or “PAYPAL GROSSE PTE THEATRE.”

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