Announcement

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Meet Bea Harrod: Your new Box Office Coordinator
Meet Bea Harrod: Your new Box Office Coordinator 2082 1672 Julia Morrison

Get ready to see a new familiar face selling tickets and resolving issues for patrons! Bea Harrod stepped into the role of Box Office Coordinator for Mercer Ticket Sales just about a month ago, and we already love her enthusiasm for patron services. Call the box office to get your tickets at 478-301-5470 or at tickets.mercer.edu and you might even chat with Bea at the door or over the phone!

How would you describe what you do to someone who doesn’t know how a box office works?

I would probably give them an analogy. When you want to gain access to a room, and you need a key to do it, I’m the person who is able to provide the key for you. Because it has to be the right key – not just any key will fit for every room, and there’s a lot of aspects to choosing a ticket for an event.

What Mercer Ticket Sales event are you most excited about this year?

Actually, Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations. I’m really excited, because I snuck a listen to the cast album, and I thought ooh, I like this. I grew up listening to The Temptations with my grandmother, so it’s nostalgic for me. I have not sat through a symphony for awhile, so I want to go see the last Macon-Mercer Symphony Orchestra concert. I think I will stay in the audience for that one. And I am a football girl! Football is going to have my heart, even though I like basketball. Mercer University football is having a great season, they are currently ranked in the top 25.

What’s your favorite Broadway musical?

It’s an amalgamation, I can’t choose. Every musical I do love has a hint of an edgy underdog story. So of course, there’s Hamilton and then I love some Wicked, Hadestown, and Mean Girls. My millennial heart loves October 3rd. I love so many!

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Piedmont and Mercer University Announce New Naming Partnership for The Piedmont Grand Opera House
Piedmont and Mercer University Announce New Naming Partnership for The Piedmont Grand Opera House 2560 1707 Julia Morrison

Piedmont and Mercer University Announce New Naming Partnership
for The Piedmont Grand Opera House


Macon, Ga. (Oct. 10, 2024) – The Grand Opera House, the iconic and storied Macon theatre and live performance hall in the heart of the city’s downtown, has a new name – The Piedmont Grand Opera House.

Officials from Piedmont, which operates two hospitals in Macon – Piedmont Macon Medical Center and Piedmont Macon North Hospital – joined officials from the theatre and Mercer University, which manages The Grand, to unveil the new name this morning.

Immediately after the announcement, the marquee was emblazoned with “The Piedmont Grand Opera House,” which is also showcased above the doors leading into the theatre from the lobby.

“We’re pleased to have Piedmont Healthcare as the naming sponsor of The Grand Opera House,” said Mercer President William D. Underwood. “It brings together two iconic organizations that make significant contributions to the quality of life for residents of Central Georgia. I can’t imagine a better combination, and we look forward to even greater days for The Piedmont Grand Opera House.”

Adding Piedmont to the theatre’s name is part of a multi-year deal between the institutions. The Grand Opera House is Macon’s oldest theatre, having opened its doors in 1905 as what was then one of the largest and most technologically advanced stages in the Southeast. The very same year, Dr. Ludwig Amster and Dr. Floyd Willcox McRae founded Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta and were considered “ahead of their time” in patient care. Throughout over a century of service to the community, these institutions have been trusted names for Georgians.

“The Grand Opera House, Piedmont Macon and Mercer University are among the most recognizable brands in Macon,” said Stephen J. Daugherty, CEO of Piedmont Macon. “The arts are an often-overlooked component of overall wellness and the mental health of our community. The arts spark imagination and foster a sense of inclusiveness and connectivity, which perfectly align with our core values at Piedmont.”

“Piedmont is a perfect partner for The Grand’s history as a cherished community treasure,” said Executive Director Frank Wood, who manages The Grand. “We serve people across all ages and stages of their lifespan, from introducing children to their first professional performance on a school bus to bringing in senior bus tours to explore Macon’s music history and our exquisite architecture. With the strength of these partnerships, the energy around The Grand this season will make our shows a must-see experience.”

The Grand, which has also recently named its large reception room the Cox Room in a partnership with Cox Communications, is best known as the home of Broadway in Central Georgia and the resident hall of the Macon-Mercer Symphony Orchestra. The venue is proud to announce this season’s Genesis of Macon Broadway Series, featuring three dynamite performances for music, theatre, or movie lovers.

The season begins with Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations on February 4-5, 2025. This musical follows the improbable journey of the Temptations from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Next up is Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock ‘N’ Roll on March 19-20, 2025. With a cast consisting of both stars from Broadway’s greatest rock musicals and rock singers, Neil Berg shares the often unknown stories from the music that changed the world forever. Finally, Pretty Woman The Musical will end the year on April 22-23, 2025. Tickets are available now for a subscription to the series.

The Grand also looks forward to welcoming patrons for Macon-Mercer Symphony Orchestra on October 21 and November 18, 2024, as well as February 24 and March 31, 2025. The October season premiere will spotlight “Lincoln Portrait” by Aaron Copeland amid presidential election season, set to speeches by the 16th president read aloud by Macon’s own Mayor Lester Miller and former mayors Robert Reichert and C. Jack Ellis. A variety of other concerts, comedy, and community performances will take place throughout the year.

About Piedmont Macon and Piedmont Macon North

Piedmont Macon, a 310-bed facility, and Piedmont Macon North, a 103-bed facility, are state-of-the-art hospitals offering 24-hour emergency rooms, inpatient and outpatient surgery options, rehabilitation programs and diagnostic services. In addition, the facilities offer specialty services such as an advanced cardiac center offering all services from non-invasive cardiology to open heart surgery, primary stroke centers, award winning orthopedic and spine care, cancer center, bariatric center and maternity services including a level III neonatal nursery.

Additionally, Piedmont Behavioral Health, located at Piedmont Macon Medical Center, provides treatment to adults with psychiatric and addiction issues through inpatient and outpatient programs. Piedmont Macon and Piedmont Macon North are part of Georgia-based Piedmont Healthcare, Georgia’s largest nonprofit hospital system covering 85 percent of Georgians and serving about 2 million patients across the state. For more information about Piedmont Macon, visit: https://www.piedmont.org/locations/piedmont-macon-medical

About the Piedmont Grand Opera House

The Piedmont Grand Opera House is a vibrant community-assembly resource for all residents of Macon-Bibb County, as well as a draw for cultural tourism that significantly impacts the success of Macon’s downtown and corresponding economic vitality. It is our mission to nurture an appreciation of the arts in all citizens of Central Georgia, especially its youngest citizens, through attracting the presentation of quality productions as well as an immersion into a treasured architectural artifact that reflects more than 100 years of Macon’s history. And finally, as a performing arts center of Mercer University, the Piedmont Grand Opera House seeks to champion excellence as the premier theatrical venue in Central Georgia. Buy tickets online at thegrandmacon.com or over the phone at (478) 301-5470.

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Purchase Your Broadway Subscription at The Grand!
Purchase Your Broadway Subscription at The Grand! 864 540 Julia Morrison

The Broadway Series held at The Grand Opera House are the only Broadway national tours in Central Georgia. We have tickets on sale now for a subscription to all four shows. All Broadway shows have two nights of performances, so you can pick a subscription for Night #1 or Night #2.

Become a subscriber and save! Enjoy special savings for your Broadway tickets at The Grand and make the experience your own in your guaranteed seats. Don’t miss a single moment from lights up to final curtain.

Season Ticket Prices

  • Area 1: $246 (plus taxes and fees)
  • Area 2: $209 (plus taxes and fees)
  • Area 3 and Box Seats: $193 (plus taxes and fees)

Buy online, in person at our box office or over the phone at 478-301-5470. Additionally, subscribers to the previous season have had their seats held for them. Do not use the links below if you are a previous subscriber. To renew, they can contact the box office, complete and return the renewal form that will be mailed to them in the coming days, and they have received an email from our ticket site, Tixr (noreply@tixr.com) with an invoice that they can use to renew.

NEW! We have a new and improved online ticket system. If you’ve bought tickets at The Grand before, go to thegrandmacon.tixr.com and create a new account using the same email address as your previous account.

Subscribe to Night #1 Now

Subscribe to Night #2 Now

Why subscribe?

  • Subscribers get the best seats at the best prices: By being a subscriber to all four shows, you save money off the ticket price for individual performances. Additionally, during the summer Broadway tickets are subscription-only – meaning you’ll get the best seats before the general public.
  • Saved you a seat: When you choose to subscribe, your preferred seat is retained for you for the following year when you renew. Love that aisle seat? Want to make sure you’re always front row center? Subscription is the best way to ensure that. This year, we have added back the center aisles in the orchestra – so subscribe to be sure to grab those prime seats year after year!
  • Special perks for season members: Season subscribers will get special perks, like learning about the new season first or a subscriber gift during the show. Everyone will know you’re part of the club!
  • Keep Broadway in Macon: By subscribing, you’re ensuring a broad base of support that can help us keep Broadway touring productions coming to The Grand for future years.
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Apply for Macon Art eXplosion
Apply for Macon Art eXplosion 2500 2500 Julia Morrison

an art and performance festival

FEBRUARY 17-19

Picture yourself at The Grand this spring: Envision a colorful cultural celebration with interactive activities, an opportunity to see a brand new type of performance, find classes for arts education, buy homemade decor, and experience a true explosion of creative energy from all different corners and perspectives in our community. This is Macon Art eXplosion (MAX).

So what is Macon Art eXplosion?

Macon Art eXplosion (MAX) is an all-weekend, radically inclusive artist-centered cultural celebration with interactive family activities and demos, a craft market, exhibitions on the main stage, and exciting site-specific micro-performances and installations on February 18-19. MAX was created by artists, for artists, and submissions to the festival will be juried by a council of practicing artists from a variety of disciplines and backgrounds.

Anyone can submit to MAX and an artist can submit multiple entries for different ideas. There are no table fees or application fees – we want this to be open and available to everyone from the most reputable professional painter to the nine-year-old prodigy singer that currently headlines her living room voice recitals. We also want to encourage risky and experimental ideas that artists may not have felt supported to show before.

Our aim is to explode the venue with arts and cultural activities from Macon’s eclectic creative community that are open to everyone and where audiences will learn something new.

How will it work?

We were inspired by open submission art festivals and Fringe festivals in other cities. With that in mind, we will open up the space at The Grand as wide as possible over the weekend for art. We’ll also be giving tours of our historic venue.

There will be three different ways to engage and explore Macon Art eXplosion:

  1. Maker Merchant Spaces: These are table/booth spaces to both showcase your wares and to perform interactive art activities (we love the idea of ones that are family friendly!). As an example, while Dushawn may be selling his screen-printed t-shirts and gifts at his booth, Katie might be leading a chalk-art demo for kids at hers. YOU set your prices 100% for Maker-Merchant tables and there are ZERO application fees – being a participating maker or artisan is totally free upfront. The Grand will take a 15% commission on items sold to cover the cost of your participation. We accept local (to Middle Georgia) and handmade goods, items, and activities. We’d love to encourage activities that make art and creative activities appealing for youth and booths that have a variety of price points for accessibility, but most importantly we want you to sell and present the work that you do. These spaces will be available in the lobby, CenterState and Encore rooms, and in front of the Grand on the sidewalk. APPLY TO MAKER MERCHANT SPACES NOW
  2. Guerilla Grand Spaces: What can YOU do to activate a unique space with your mini-concert, gallery show, play, or interactive performance? We present six spaces on the fringes that are ripe to be turned into a creative paradise. And it’s not just the locations that are meant to be edgy – we want your weird, wacky, and wonderful ideas. These site-specific gallery or performance spaces are the fire escape, green room, dressing rooms, balcony stair landing, top of balcony, and The Grand boxes. What can YOU make in those spaces? A cubby concert in a dressing room to an audience of 4? A stairway gallery? A comedy show using The Grand boxes? APPLY FOR A GUERILLA GRAND SPACE NOW

Applications are open now through February 8th. For questions, please email thegrand@mercer.edu.

We have resources for applicants and an FAQ on our website on this page. We will have multiple tours of the venue available and at least one informational Zoom session for applicants to learn more.

Funded by Georgia Council for the Arts

Create. Explore. Connect. To the MAX.

SITE TOURS AND Q&As

Interested in applying to Macon Art eXplosion but need to learn more? Come to one of our site tours or Zoom info sessions:

FEBRUARY 3 AT 4 PM: SITE TOUR AND Q&A

We host a tour at The Grand for people interested in applying. Walk around the whole space, brainstorm ideas for submitting to the festival, and connect and network with other creatives! DRINKS AND REFRESHMENTS PROVIDED

FEBRUARY 5 AT 2 PM: SITE TOUR AND Q&A

Hang Out at The Grand! Kick off your weekend by coming to see a site tour and learn about applying to Macon Art eXplosion. FREE DRINKS AND REFRESHMENTS PROVIDED!

MONDAY FEBRUARY 6 AT 5 PM: ZOOM MEETING Q&A

Last minute applicant session! Still looking for information and inspiration before application is due? Meet up with other artists and learn about applying to Macon Art eXplosion! JOIN ON ZOOM

Frequently Asked Questions and Site Photos

Who can apply?

We encourage anyone – and we mean anyone – with a bold idea to apply for Macon Art eXplosion. This includes artists and creatives of all ages and backgrounds. Our only requirements is that your gifts/art are handcrafted – not part of a larger corporation’s products. Even if you are unsure of an idea, please feel free to apply! Our artist council can provide specific feedback even in the event that your work is not accepted.

We encourage both visual and performing artists to apply with all kinds of ideas. We want your one-woman operas and group paint and sips. We are looking for any idea we can house in the building. The only limitation on the type of work is that most submissions will have a relatively small amount of installation time and that nothing can be hung from our walls – as a historic theatre, we are a little old and delicate!

What does the “blind jury” process mean?

A group of Macon visual and performing artists from all disciplines will be judging the applications. The “blind jury” aspect refers to the fact that all applications will strip your name from consideration during the council reading and discussing the applications. This is meant to focus our attention on the work that you are submitting, not your perceived reputation or previous experience.

What does it cost?

The event costs artists nothing to apply or exhibit. That’s right, the number is 0. There are no fees involved. You can set your own prices for your work or performance during the event. There is a 15% commission being taken on items sold or tickets sold to help cover the costs of the event.

I want to participate, but I’m not sure where my application fits in.

Please go to one of our site visits or contact Julia Rubens at rubens_ja@mercer.edu. We want to figure out a way to envision your work at this event!!

Admission for kids are free. Does that mean all exhibits are family-friendly?

We are emphasizing family-friendly activities, but not all artistic expressions at the festival may be appropriate for children. We will have a color-coded marker at the doorway to each exhibition or performance to indicate age appropriateness. That way, the littles can have a great time, the artists can present their work authentically, and parents won’t be confused about what will work for them!

Photos

Maker Merchant Spaces

Description: Tables for Maker/Merchant Spaces and activities can happen in front of The Grand, in either of our reception rooms the SouthState Room or the Encore Room, or the lobby. You can receive one 8′ table and one chair from The Grand to sell your wares or do an activity.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stage Shout-Out Spots

Description: Stage Shout-Out Spots will happen on The Grand Stage in 15-20 minute increments. We will provide you with a microphone and the ability to project imagery.

 

Guerilla Grand Spaces

Description: Multiple spaces around The Grand are available for pop-up galleries and performances. These are customized to fit your vision. Our main restriction is that we can’t hang pieces directly from the walls of our historic space.

1) The Grand Fire Escape: Multiple levels and architectural metal staircase.

 

 


2) Staircase up to the balcony: This stairwell has multiple levels with several nooks and crannies for an interesting site-specific performance or exhibition.

3) Top of Grand Balcony: This is a long, hallway-type space at the top of the staircase.

4) The Grand Box Seats: The iconic boxes are a staple fixture of the architecture at The Grand. Each holds six seats and there are three levels of boxes on each side of the stage connected by staircases.

 

5) The Grand Stage: The main stage!

6) The Green Room: Our backstage room where performers hang out! Could be a great intimate or edgy show venue.

7) The Dressing Rooms: There are three small “star dressing rooms” upstairs backstage. Downstairs, there are two larger ensemble dressing rooms which each have shower rooms attached. All have the lightbulb vanities pictured.

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The Grand Opera House receives grant from Georgia Council for the Arts for Macon Art eXplosion
The Grand Opera House receives grant from Georgia Council for the Arts for Macon Art eXplosion 1200 600 Julia Morrison
Media Contact:
Julia Rubens
478-301-2933
ATLANTA – The Grand Opera House was awarded a grant by Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA), a strategic arm of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, as part of its initial disbursement of grants for fiscal year 2023. A total of 213 organizations were awarded 253 grants that provide more than $3.1 million in funding to arts organizations throughout the state. The Bridge Grant will provide operating support funding to 134 organizations, the Project Grant will help fund 59 arts projects, and the Arts Education Program Grant will be distributed to 60 organizations.
“The arts sector has proven its resilience over the last two years, and it has played a major role in restarting the economy through attracting tourism, bringing communities back together, and aiding classroom learning as we inspire the workforce of the future,” said Georgia Council for the Arts Executive Director Tina Lilly. “The 253 grants we have awarded will help cities and organizations bring people more back to work while enhancing the qualities that make Georgia so special.”
“Macon Art eXplosion aims to open The Grand in a more democratic way by exploding the venue with art in all corners of this historic facility and promoting artists without barriers,” said Director of Arts Marketing and Community Engagement Julia Rubens. “The first year of the festival, funded with just $1000 from an On the Table Macon micro-grant by Community Foundation of Central Georgia and Knight Foundation, was a joyous weekend of art and conversation. The festival allowed for dozens of new patrons to come into the theatre for the first time, three artists sold their first piece of art and at least one artist made over $1000 from the weekend. This Georgia Council for the Arts grant will allow for the opportunity to expand the festival further and open our doors wider.”
Funds awarded by Georgia Council for the Arts include appropriations from the Georgia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA) uses Peer Review Panels to judge and review applications following standard practices set by the National Endowment for the Arts. Panelists are GCA Council members and fellow professionals who are experienced in the arts discipline or type of grant being reviewed, or are citizens with a record of arts activities, experience, and knowledge. Grant recipients include theaters, dance companies, museums, cities, colleges, and multi-discipline arts entities. A complete list of fiscal year 2023 grantees in these program areas can be found here.
###
About Georgia Council for the Arts
Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA) is a strategic arm of the Georgia Department of Economic Development whose mission is to cultivate the growth of vibrant, thriving Georgia communities through the arts. GCA provides grant funding, programs, and services statewide that support the vital arts industry, preserve the state’s cultural heritage, increase tourism, and nurture strong communities. Funding for Georgia Council for the Arts is provided by appropriations from the Georgia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts. Visit www.gaarts.org for more information.
About GDEcD
The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) is the state’s sales and marketing arm, the lead agency for attracting new business investment, encouraging the expansion of existing industry and small businesses, locating new markets for Georgia products, attracting tourists to Georgia, and promoting the state as a destination for arts and location for film, music, and digital entertainment projects, as well as planning and mobilizing state resources for economic development. Visit www.georgia.org for more information.
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After Three Years, Broadway is Back at The Grand for New Subscription Season
After Three Years, Broadway is Back at The Grand for New Subscription Season 5000 3333 Julia Morrison

After a disruption in touring productions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the first Broadway season will be held at The Grand Opera House with tickets on sale now for a subscription to all three shows. All Broadway shows have two nights of performances, so you can pick a subscription for Night #1 or Night #2.

Become a subscriber and save! Enjoy over 10% savings for your Broadway tickets at The Grand and make the experience your own in your guaranteed seats.

Season Ticket Prices

  • Gold Circle : $230 (plus tax)
  • Area 1: $210 (plus tax)
  • Area 2: $180 (plus tax)
  • Area 3 and Box Seats: $140 (plus tax)

Buy online, in person at our box office (10 a.m.-2 p.m. for the month of August) or over the phone at 478-301-5470. Additionally, subscribers to the 2019-2020 season have had their seats held for them. To renew, they can contact the box office or complete and return the renewal form that will be mailed to them in the coming days.

Why subscribe?

  • Subscribers get the best seats at the best prices: By being a subscriber to all three shows, you save over 10% off the ticket price for individual performances. Additionally, right now Broadway tickets are subscription-only – meaning you’ll get the best seats before the general public.
  • Save your seat – forever! When you choose to subscribe, your preferred seat is retained for you for the following year when you renew. Love that aisle seat? Want to make sure you’re always front row center? Subscription is the best way to ensure that.
  • Special perks for season members: Season subscribers will get a special perk during each performance this year, like subscriber gifts, thank you notes, a special post-show reception or a drink ticket for our signature cocktail. Everyone at the show will know you’re part of the club!
  • Keep Broadway in Macon: By subscribing, you’re ensuring a broad base of support that can help us keep Broadway touring productions coming to The Grand for future years.

Subscribe to Night #1 Now

Subscribe to Night #2 Now

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Frank Wood Named Executive Director of The Grand Opera House
Frank Wood Named Executive Director of The Grand Opera House 960 720 Julia Morrison

July 29, 2022
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Julia Rubens, rubens_ja@mercer.edu or 478-301-2933

MACON — Veteran arts administrator and Mercer University alumnus Dr. Frank E. Wood has been named executive director of Macon’s historic Grand Opera House, effective Oct. 17. He succeeds Joe Patti, who resigned in May to pursue other professional opportunities.

Dr. Wood, who was director of arts marketing and communications at Mercer from 1995 to 2001, currently serves as vice president for advancement at The College of the Florida Keys, and for the past 17 years has also served as executive director of the Tennessee Williams Theatre in Key West, Florida. He previously served as executive director of the Key West Symphony Orchestra.

“Frank was appointed as Mercer’s first arts marketing director in 1995 when the University entered into a long-term lease with Bibb County to manage The Grand Opera House, and he has remained engaged with The Grand and Mercer as a loyal alumnus through the years,” said Larry D. Brumley, senior vice president for marketing communications and chief of staff. “He brings extensive arts management experience to this key leadership position, including a successful track record in programming, fundraising and community relations. I am very pleased that he is returning home to lead The Grand and its talented staff.”

Dr. Wood earned his B.B.A. and M.B.A. in marketing from Mercer’s Stetson-Hatcher School of Business, and has a Doctor of Business Administration from the Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship at Nova Southeastern University.

His experience at The College of the Florida Keys also includes serving as dean of arts and sciences, business administration program director and faculty member and executive director of the Florida Keys Educational Foundation. He is a graduate of the Florida Chancellor’s Leadership Academy and its Master Teacher Seminar.

As executive director of the Tennessee Williams Theatre he has presented more than 270 concerts and national touring Broadway shows.

“I am excited about the possibilities and grateful for the opportunity to return to Mercer and The Grand. Both institutions hold a special place for me. I look forward to reuniting with the community and to presenting a variety of entertaining, high-quality performances for the arts patrons of Central Georgia,” noted Dr. Wood.

–

The Grand Opera House is a vibrant community-assembly resource for all residents of Macon-Bibb County, as well as a draw for cultural tourism that significantly impacts the success of Macon’s downtown and corresponding economic vitality. It is our mission to nurture an appreciation of the arts in all citizens of Central Georgia, especially its youngest citizens, through attracting the presentation of quality productions as well as an immersion into a treasured architectural artifact that reflects 133 years of Macon’s history. And finally, as a performing arts center of Mercer University, the Grand Opera House seeks to champion excellence as the premiere theatrical venue in Central Georgia. Buy tickets online at thegrandmacon.com or over the phone at (478) 301-5470.

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Original Interactive Play about Pleasant Hill History and Future to Premiere at The Grand This Saturday
Original Interactive Play about Pleasant Hill History and Future to Premiere at The Grand This Saturday 1781 1416 Julia Morrison

A year-long process of participatory research and interviews will culminate in the first presentation of an original play about Macon’s historic Pleasant Hill neighborhood and the impacts of blight on Saturday, April 23 at The Grand Opera House, with 2:30 and 7:30 PM showtimes. Healing a Haunted House will take audiences on an interactive journey of the neighborhood’s past, present, and future, asking all Macon-Bibb citizens to ponder about the neighborhood’s restoration.

Supported in part by Georgia Council for the Arts through appropriations of the Georgia General Assembly and with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts, co-artists DSTO Moore, Nancy Cleveland, and Julia Rubens co-wrote Healing a Haunted House, primarily based upon interviews and found text from Pleasant Hill residents. Historic Macon Foundation contributed to historical research and advised the co-artists.

The workshop iteration of the play Saturday is just the beginning of Healing a Haunted House’s activity – the work serves to support and shine a spotlight on efforts towards neighborhood restoration by organizations like the Pleasant Hill Neighborhood Organization and the Community Enhancement Authority.

The play features multiple generations of Pleasant Hill history, including characters like famed volunteer Ozzie Bell McKay. The show highlights history behind currently blighted structures, such as Dr. E. E. Green’s home. The co-artists plan future arts-based interventions, like a youth-led temporary mural in an empty, blighted lot. These efforts seek to harness the civic imagination around blight and Pleasant Hill’s bright history to challenge citizens to contribute to solutions.

Both the 2:30 PM and 7:30 PM performances have limited capacity, due to the interactive nature of the performance. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and Mercer faculty/staff and can be found at thegrandmacon.com.

Featuring Tanya Arrington, Lakesia Cunningham, Casey Dupree, Marie Jones, Laura Lamoree, Sobe Thomas, and Nathalie Walker.
Key art by DSTO Moore

–

The Grand Opera House is a vibrant community-assembly resource for all residents of Macon-Bibb County, as well as a draw for cultural tourism that significantly impacts the success of Macon’s downtown and corresponding economic vitality. It is our mission to nurture an appreciation of the arts in all citizens of Central Georgia, especially its youngest citizens, through attracting the presentation of quality productions as well as an immersion into a treasured architectural artifact that reflects 133 years of Macon’s history. And finally, as a performing arts center of Mercer University, the Grand Opera House seeks to champion excellence as the premiere theatrical venue in Central Georgia.

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Meet Chas Pridgen: Your New Patron Services and Rentals Director
Meet Chas Pridgen: Your New Patron Services and Rentals Director 4032 3024 Julia Morrison

Chas Pridgen will now be working directly with patrons and ticketing clients as The Grand’s Director of Patron Services and Rentals. A native of Broxton, GA, he graduated from Mercer University studying journalism and theatre and as a talented vocalist, has even sung on The Grand stage before during our Cabaret Concert Series and Bite-Sized Broadway. Say hi to Chas in the lobby the next time you come to The Grand!

We asked Chas a few questions to get to know him better:

What drew you to The Grand?

I’ve really respected and appreciated The Grand Opera House’s recent efforts to make the arts accessible for a broader audience using intentional ways to reach people with community engagement programming. I know, because I’ve been a part of it myself!

When I was a student at Mercer, I saw The Nutcracker and realized it was the first access point for many children to see a live show, and such a strong tradition for families. To see the wonder that children have for the magic of theatre for the first time put a smile on my face. I look forward to getting to know the team behind efforts like this!

On the opposite end, I also attended a screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. The energy of the raucous crowd and diversity showed me how versatile the venue is, and how many different types of culture fit within it! (Editor’s Note: Check out our $5 film series!)

I got more involved as a volunteer when Julia asked me to be on the Artist Council for the first Macon Art eXplosion (MAX). Hanging out over the weekend at MAX, I got more of an inside look into helping patrons, and I especially enjoyed meeting people who had never been to The Grand before. This showed me that I could help other people discover the experiences I’ve had as an artist and audience member, and help The Grand in creating a dynamic community space. I’m excited to be more involved with organizing MAX this year!

What show are you most looking forward to?

I’m very excited for the Macon-Mercer Symphony Orchestra. I’ve wanted to see symphony music forever and even had subscriptions as a patron to use at other venues, but I really don’t have the opportunity to drive really far to see one. Having a symphony in Macon makes it so convenient to see high-quality music.

What is your favorite part about working with patrons?

I like being able to help ease them into their experience. What I hope I can do is to provide a comforting “transition zone” from the troubles people might have out in the world on the street before they come in, to the point where they can relax and enjoy getting immersed into a show. When a patron has a good experience getting their tickets and getting through the lobby, they will have a better time focusing on the music or listening to a speaker.

The Grand is known as the home of Broadway in Central Georgia. What’s your favorite musical?

For a theatre major like me, this is such a controversial question! I’ll give a three-way tie between Songs for a New World, Company, or Parade. But I am not a major fan of the current Company revival! I think all three of these shows still have a lot of relevance to the times we are going through now with the pandemic – changing relationship mores, the great cost of prejudices, and a “new world” that we can create together with optimism and hope.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Since I spend so much time with people during the day working in customer service roles and as a performer, I like to isolate a little more on my time off. So I like to play video games and watch Netflix at home to try to unwind.

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Picture Yourself at The Grand in 2021-2022: BRAND NEW SHOWS ANNOUNCED!
Picture Yourself at The Grand in 2021-2022: BRAND NEW SHOWS ANNOUNCED! 2550 1650 Julia Morrison

BRAND NEW SHOWS ANNOUNCED!

Picture yourself at The Grand: You belong here. Get date nights all year or grab a group with Movie Passes and Cabaret Packages for $20-30. Set up a private film screening or party in a grand atmosphere. Enjoy captivating shows of all genres with the best touring performers in the country. Give the gift of memories at The Grand Opera House.

Here’s a lineup of all our new performances. Tickets are on sale now – go to thegrandmacon.com anytime or buy at our box office 10 AM-5 PM by calling 478-301-5470.

9/20/2021 – BROADWAY DOES PRIDE
Cabaret
$10 6:30 and 8:30 PM

Broadway Does Pride is an upbeat cabaret-style performance blending Broadway-inspired vocal stylings with the eclectic atmosphere of an intimate lounge show in downtown Macon. “I feel pretty, and witty, and gay!” And so will you with an energetic revue that will revisit musical theatre and pop classics that resonate with the LGBTQIA+ community. For the first time, the cabaret will partner with Theatre Macon and Macon Little Theatre to show that the entire local theatre community supports Pride, with a portion of the proceeds to benefit Macon Pride, in a production co-directed by Jim Crisp and Julia Rubens with music direction by McKinley Starks. Kicking off Pride Week, the special Monday showing will also be designated Service Industry Night to honor service employees. Supported by the Linda Harriet Lane Fund.

 

10/15/2021 – HOCUS POCUS
Film
$5 7 PM

When a curious teenage boy accidently resurrects a trio of ancient witches, Halloween in Salem becomes a lot more interesting. A cult classic that perfectly balances spook and hilarious hijinks, Hocus Pocus kicks off our 2021-2022 film series and is a great way to celebrate the Halloween season and look back on ‘90’s nostalgia. Hosts Yutoya Avaze Leon and Christina Leon will get witchy with you.

 

10/23/2021-10/24/2021 – MACON ART EXPLOSION (MAX)
Special Event – Art and Performance Festival
$5 Adults, Kids under 12 FREE

Macon Art Explosion (MAX) wants to push the envelope in an all-day weekend extreme art festival. Maker Merchant Booths will showcase artists’ wares and offer interactive art activities. There will be Stage Shout-Out Spots where you get a peek at what’s going on with performances, creators, and classes in the region. Finally, in Guerrilla Grand Spaces you get to explore the hidden spaces of the historic Grand, where you will discover mini-concerts, gallery shows, plays, and interactive performances. Macon Art Explosion is a radically inclusive, family-friendly day of weird, wacky, and wonderful ideas by local artists. Supported by a grant from the Community Foundation of Central GA.

 

10/30/2021 – THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW
Film
$5 9 PM

Come out to The Grand for a classic Halloween tradition – The Rocky Horror Picture Show! Brad and Janet, a very square engaged couple, stumble upon Dr. Frank-n-Furter’s castle full of enigmatic and loud characters engaging in sinful delights. Rocky Horror is an interactive musical experience like no other that will leave you doing the Time Warp all the way home! Wesleyan College’s Cosplay Club will join hosts Yutoya Avaze Leon and Christina Leon in dressing to impress – join them in your best getup and have the opportunity to win our costume contest!

 

11/13/2021 – BROADWAY DOES HOLIDAY
Cabaret
$10 6:30 and 8:30 PM

Broadway Does Holiday is an upbeat cabaret-style performance blending Broadway-inspired vocal stylings with the eclectic atmosphere of an intimate lounge show in downtown Macon. Come be a part of a joyful night of music, because it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas and we’re not waiting until December to celebrate! You’ll feel the holiday spirit with performances of classic holiday songs, including some of your favorite Broadway numbers. The Great White Way will lead you into dreaming of a white Christmas, with jingle bells that sound a lot like showtunes. Supported by the Linda Harriet Lane Fund.

 

11/20/2021 – THE TRIBE MACON PRESENTS LUX
Special Event – Drag Show
$15 8 PM

The Tribe’s largest show yet! Join us as we showcase the epic power of these queens – with so many tricks and effects up our sleeves, you’re sure to have the time of your life. Including incredible performers and tantalizing music, LUX will surprise you. Starring Coco Iman Starr, Akasha Giselle Vidalle, Yutoya Avaze Leon, Pynk Dime, and more. Hosted by Christina Leon.

 

12/17/2021 – THE PRINCESS BRIDE
Film
$5 7 PM

Westley and Buttercup’s epic story of love and revenge hits the big screen at The Grand this December. Laugh and let out an ‘aww’ as you watch one of the greatest love stories of all time and a family classic. With kooky characters, some absurd comedy, and a great journey, it’s “inconceivable” that the combination of The Princess Bride and the Christmas light show in downtown Macon won’t make a great heartwarming holiday evening.

 

12/18/2021 – A SILVER ANNIVERSARY CHRISTMAS WITH JOHN BERRY
Concert
$40 7:30 PM

Returning to The Grand for the 25th year, John’s special take on the Christmas season has become a Macon tradition, mixing such Berry classic hits as “Your Love Amazes Me” and “Standing On The Edge Of Goodbye,” and “I Think About It All The Time” with holiday favorites, including his always-standing-ovation performance of “O Holy Night.” No one moves an audience quite the way this platinum-selling vocalist does, and this December Grand appearance is sure to be the hottest holiday ticket in town.

 

1/14/2022 – FERRIS BUELLER’S DAY OFF
Film
$5 7 PM

Slacker teen Ferris Bueller ropes his girlfriend and best friend into a day of exploring the city. The truant teens take the time to enjoy the cultural hub they live in because, as Ferris himself says, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Directed by John Hughes and starring Matthew Broderick, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a love letter to the culture and spirit of Chicago.

 

2/15/2022 – ABBA MANIA
Concert
$35-49 7:30 PM

They’re back… now let’s party! ABBA MANIA, the original tribute from London’s West End, takes you back in time by recreating one of the world’s finest pop groups in a live stage performance. This highly polished and professional production has been delighting audiences since 1999, re-creating the ABBA phenomenon for fans all over the world. “From beginning to end, ABBA MANIA keeps the party going, jumping, bouncing, twirling and dancing tirelessly” –WBSM New Bedford.

 

2/25/2022 – MONTY PYTHON AND THE HOLY GRAIL
Film
$5 7 PM

Monty Python and the Holy Grail turns the classical legend of King Arthur’s search for the Holy Grail into a highly quotable farcical comedy, starring the British jesters that have been beloved for generations. Arthur and his knights embark on a poorly funded and incredibly silly search and encounter a multitude of truly ridiculous obstacles like terrifying rabbits and the Knights Who Say “Ni!” This classic comedy will have you leaving the theatre in stitches.

 

3/11/2022 – THE TEN TENORS
Concert
$35-45 7:30 PM

The TEN Tenors are an Australian music ensemble that has toured extensively nationally and internationally and released more than 20 albums. Since The TEN Tenors was first formed in 1995, the group has performed extensively in Australia, overseas and on television, and their signature brand of music featuring 10-part harmonies has been enjoyed by more than 90 million people. They have headlined more than 2,000 concerts around the world, sold more than 3.5 million concert tickets and become renowned for their dynamic, choreographed performances and skillful ability to seamlessly transition from operatic arias to soulful ballads through to chart-topping pop and rock songs.

 

3/18/2022 – BROADWAY DOES THE ‘80S
Cabaret
$10 6:30 and 8:30 PM

Broadway Does the 80s is an upbeat cabaret-style performance blending Broadway-inspired vocal stylings with the eclectic atmosphere of an intimate lounge show in downtown Macon. “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” for a night and experience your favorite 80s songs, both Broadway and otherwise, on the big stage! From Dreamgirls and Into The Woodsto Cyndi Lauper and Wham, the energy and passion of 80s music will raise the roof. Supported by the Linda Harriet Lane Fund.

 

3/24/2022 – KENNY ENDO TAIKO ENSEMBLE
Concert
$20-25 7:30 PM

The beat of the drum thrums through your body. Soon your heart and the drummer are in synch and excitement fills your body. In celebration of the Cherry Blossom Festival, we are fortunate to welcome Kenny Endo, the first Westerner to be granted a license to perform traditional Japanese taiko drumming, as he celebrates 45 years practicing an art that is both bombastic and subtle. The evening will include traditional taiko drumming as well as contemporary works where jazz vibraphone, electric violin, Hawaiian ‘ukulele and traditional Japanese instruments are played with a rock and jazz energy.

 

4/8/2022-4/9/2022 – HEALING A HAUNTED HOUSE
Special Event – Interactive Play
$10, $5 Mercer ID 7:30 PM

The echo inside faded walls. There are nearly 4,000 blighted structures in Bibb County that are no longer occupied by a soul (Source: The Telegraph). But what if they still had a voice? This multimedia community-wide exploration process worked directly with citizens of Macon-Bibb County to gather five stories of homes that were once vibrant in Pleasant Hill, presenting them as examples to ask what our civic body can do to restore and heal. A co-creation of lead artists Nancy Cleveland, Julia Rubens, and DSTO Moore along with a host of ensemble voices, partnering The Grand with Historic Macon Foundation and Mercer Players. Supported in part by Georgia Council for the Arts through appropriations of the Georgia General Assembly and with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts.

 

4/16/2022 – THE BRAT PACK DOUBLE FEATURE (Pretty in Pink and St. Elmo’s Fire)
Film
$5 7 PM

April will bring you back to the ‘80s at The Grand with the double feature of two classic Brat Pack films, St. Elmo’s Fire and Pretty in Pink. These both tells the story of struggling to find who you are and who you want to be – in a world that can change between life, love, and death in an instant. In these two heartfelt films, first feel for high schooler Andie (Molly Ringwald) as she attempts to balance the unstable nature of social cliques and following your heart, then follow an ensemble of recent college graduates (led by Rob Lowe) trying to navigate their wild twentysomething paths while staying friends.

 

4/22/2022 – MADAGASCAR THE MUSICAL
Broadway
$45-60 Adult, $30 Kids under 12 7:30 PM

Great for families! Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound out of the zoo and onto the stage in this musical spectacular. Based on the smash DreamWorks animated motion picture, Madagascar The Musical follows all of your favorite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Sponsored by Atrium Health Navicent.

 

5/6/2022 – BROADWAY DOES SOUL
Cabaret
$10 6:30 and 8:30 PM

Broadway Does Soul is an upbeat cabaret-style performance blending Broadway-inspired vocal stylings with the eclectic atmosphere of an intimate lounge show in downtown Macon. Connect with the deep emotions and truths of soul music from local Macon music heritage, classic songs from shows such as Memphis and The Wiz, and the sounds of Aretha Franklin and Marvin Gaye in this night of soulful tunes. Supported by the Linda Harriet Lane Fund.

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