By Breegan Petruska
After being shut down for more than a year, the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre has announced its reopening, along with the lineup for the 2021-22 season, featuring seven shows – three musicals, two plays, and two special events.
Reopening Sept. 17 for their 96th season, GRCT will present “Once,” “Black Bold and Beautiful: Onward Together,” “The Sound of Music”, “Shakespeare in Love,” “Dragons Love Tacos,” Civic Theatre’s “Ten For All” playwriting festival and “The Wiz.”
“It’s equal parts surreal and exciting,” Ben Greene, the director of Marketing and Engagement for GRCT stated in an email to the Collegiate. “We’ve been waiting for this for a long time, and we believe that our audience members and community have, as well! The pause that our world has experienced over the past 18 months has allowed us to re-prioritize and reevaluate some of our best practices on how to serve the people of Grand Rapids and the rest of West Michigan. We’re excited to welcome patrons through the Civic doors and into a space of reflection, celebration, and escape while prioritizing their safety and comfort.”
When it comes to COVID-19 protocols, the theater wants guests to be as comfortable as possible and at this time are not requiring masks or social distancing.
“We plan to transition to 100 percent capacity without distancing for our new season, beginning with “Once” in September,” said Greene. “We will continue to follow guidance from federal, state, and local health departments should conditions change. In light of the State of Michigan’s most recent order, we will not be requiring the use of face masks during our performances. Patrons are, of course, welcome to wear face masks if they wish. We will maintain our new enhanced cleaning protocols, with special emphasis on high-touch areas and public spaces.”
The theater would also like to invite guests to join them at Lake Michigan Credit Union Ballpark on Aug. 27 and 28 for Broadway at the Ballpark. Guests will need to bring their own chairs and will be seated in the outfield.
“This special two-night event returns after its 2020 debut and will feature world-class entertainment and bigger and better entertainment experiences for all ages,” Greene stated. “The concert will feature Broadway favorites performed by Civic Theatre actors. This year, the event will also include more musical numbers, greater seating capacity, and an expanded selection of food and beverage, including beer and wine.”
For season subscription holders, early access tickets go on sale Aug. 3. Single ticket sales start on Aug. 17. Those who bought tickets for shows canceled due to COVID-19 and have existing vouchers and credit certificates will be able to redeem them for these upcoming shows.
For all dates, times, and summaries, visit the GRCT website.
