Syracuse Stage is preparing for its 50th Anniversary with the 2023-2024 season. And they're hoping to welcome even larger audiences for the six productions, as the pandemic eases.
Stage’s season will get underway in September with “What The Constitution Means To Me.” Artistic Director Bob Hupp said many are familiar with the movie, but seeing it in person will be an entirely new experience.
It’s a play that’s been on his wish list to produce since he saw it on Broadway three years ago. Hupp said the production resonates with the times.
“There’s humor in the story, but there's also heartfelt connection to the impact that this document has on everyday lives, of women's lives, of lives that we see what's happening in our country today," Hupp said. "We see how the Supreme Court and their decisions impact for better or worse, so many aspects of our lives.”
He acknowledged it’s been challenging getting people to return to enjoy in-person theater settings, but last holiday season they experienced promising numbers with the Little Mermaid. Hupp feels COVID-19 is manageable now, and he thinks of live theater as a communal experience.
“We think that that's something special and unique that theater offers, the opportunity to come together with friends, family, with strangers, in a in a safe and exciting environment. To celebrate art, celebrate theatrical art on the stage, art that can at times change lives," Hupp said. "But sometimes it's just about getting out with your friends and family and having a good time. And so we really look for all of that when we're selecting a season.”
The 50th Anniversary of Syracuse Stage is titled “Seize The Play” and will also include “Thunder Knocking On The Door” with music by Keb’ Mo’ and the return of “A Christmas Carol.”
Youth auditions will be held in-person on April 28 and 29. All audition submission instructions will be updated on the Syracuse Stage website.