Strand Theatre
Friday, April 12, 2024 | 7:30pm

Step Afrika! 

Photos and video are not permitted during this performance. 

CREATIVE TEAM

BRIAN WILLIAMS
Founder and Executive Producer
C. Brian Williams is a native of Houston, Texas, and a graduate of Howard University. He recently earned the nation’s highest honor in the folk and traditional arts—a 2022 National Heritage Fellow from the National Endowment for the Arts, for contributions to American heritage and culture. Brian first learned to step as a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. - Beta Chapter, in the Spring of 1989. While living in Southern Africa, he began to research the percussive dance tradition of stepping, exploring the many sides of this exciting, yet under-recognized American art form, and founded Step Afrika! in 1994. Williams has performed, lectured, and taught in Europe, Central and South America, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and throughout the United States. He is the founder of the monumental Step Afrika! International Cultural Festival in Johannesburg, South Africa. Through Williams’ leadership, stepping has evolved into one of America’s newest cultural exports and inspired the designation of Step Afrika! as Washington, DC’s official “Cultural Ambassador.” Williams has been cited as a “civic/community visionary” by NV Magazine, a “nation builder” by the National Black Caucus of State Legislators, and a “minority business leader” by the Washington Business Journal. He is the recipient of numerous Artist Fellowships; the Distinguished Arts Award from the Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts; the Pola Nirenska Award for Contemporary Achievement in Dance. He is also featured in Soulstepping, the first book to document the history of stepping. He also earned the 2008 Mayor’s Art Award for Innovation in the Arts and has led the company to multiple Metro DC Dance Awards for “Outstanding New Work,” “Excellence in Stage Design/Multimedia,” and “Outstanding Group Performance.” In 2018, Williams received the Mayor’s Arts Award for Visionary Leadership from the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities.

MFONISO AKPAN
Artistic Director
Mfoniso Akpan has trained extensively in tap, ballet, jazz, modern, African dance, and step. While attending the State University of New York at Stony Brook, she majored in biochemistry and cultivated her stepping skills as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Mfon began her training at the Bernice Johnson Cultural Arts Center and has performed at Carnegie Hall, Avery Fisher Hall, the Apollo Theater, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, and Lincoln Center. Mfon toured with the off-Broadway show Hoofin' 2 Hittin, where she was a featured stepper and dancer.

NIOMI COLLARD
Lighting Designer / Production Manager
Niomi Collard is a Washington, D.C., and Tampa, FL-based lighting and projections designer. Niomi has designed lights and video on stage with Synetic Theater Company, The Source Festival, and GALA Hispanic Theater, and was nominated for a DC Regional Award for Outstanding Production in a Play for KLYTMNESTRA by Dane Figueroa Edidi at Theater Alliance (2020). Niomi has been behind the camera as lighting director for PBS NewsHour and designed lighting throughout the Smithsonian’s many museums. She has assisted in designs at The Studio Theatre and Rorschach Theatre Company. Niomi helps lead TechOps for DragonCon in Atlanta, GA every Labor Day weekend, and is a graduate of the American University in Washington, D.C. Niomi joined Step Afrika! in 2017 and her favorite color is R318 Mayan Sun.

MARIANNE MEADOWS
Assistant Production Manager
She is a Resident Designer for Solas Nua (Johnny Meister and the Stitch, The Smuggler), Open Circle (where she also serves as a board member), The Washington Stage Guild, Scena Theatre, Theatre Lab, and Histrio. Previous productions include Eleanor, The Backguards (Ford's Theatre), Quills (Helen Hayes nomination) and The Dead Monkey (Woolly Mammoth), Old Wicked Songs (Helen Hayes nomination) and The Desk Set (Studio Theatre), The Chosen (Helen Hayes nomination, Theater J), The Adding Machine (Helen Hayes nomination, Washington Jewish Theatre). Marianne is a member of United Scenic Artists local 829 with a BA from Sarah Lawrence College, MFA from the University of Washington with additional training at Lester Polakovs’ Studio and Forum of Stage Design, NYC. In 2004, she received Theatre Lobby’s Mary Goldwater Award.

TONI STERLING
Assistant Production Manager
Toni Sterling is a freelance lighting designer based in Atlanta, Ga. She obtained her BFA in Theatre from the University of West Georgia and received her MFA in Lighting Design at the University of Connecticut. Some of her recent works are, Jitney: Kennesaw State University, Paradise Blue: The Gloucester Stage, Wolf at the End of the Block: Theatrical Outfit, Intimate Apparel: Actor’s Express, Othello: Oglethorpe University, Feeding Beatrice: Aurora Theatre, Marie and Rosetta: True Colors Theatre. She loves to go wherever light takes her. www.tonisterling.com

COMPANY

ARIEL DYKES is a native of Gainesville, Florida. She received an Associate of Arts Degree in Musical Theatre from Santa Fe College and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from the University of Florida. She has trained in traditional and post-modern dance, jazz, voice, and acting, and has worked with such artists as Ailey Dancers’ Nathaniel Hunt and Samantha Barriento, Tony Award winner Scott Coulter, and Galen Hooks. She was introduced to stepping and strolling as a member of the Iota Lambda Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., where she choreographed step routines for the chapter and UF’s National Panhellenic Council. This is her first season with the Company.

KAMALA HARGROVE was born and raised in the Bronx, New York, and started dancing at the age of four. She trained professionally in ballet, Horton, Graham, West African, jazz, and hip hop at the Alvin Ailey School and Dance Theater of Harlem until she was 18. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics, Theater, and Dance with a concentration in Dance and Choreography at Trinity College. Since graduating from Trinity College, Kamala has appeared in various music videos and live performances. She has performed with artists including Estelle, Mr. Vegas, Wizkid, and French Montana. She has also worked as a Teaching Artist in New York City, teaching elementary, middle, and high school students. This is Kamala’s first season with the Company.

AKIEVIA HICKMAN is a native of Tallahassee, Florida, and holds an MBA from Florida A&M University. She is a member of the Beta Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. In addition to being trained in hip-hop and jazz, Akievia has studied modern and contemporary dance under the direction of Shepiro Hardemon as a member of Mahogany Dance Theatre. Akievia was introduced to stepping in high school when she joined the Code Red Step team and furthered her experience in college as a member of the Rampage Step Team.

JABARI JONES is a Detroit, MI native who began dancing at the age of 8, inspired by recording artist Usher’s “You Don’t Have to Call” music video. A self-taught dancer, his first ever taste of performing was dancing in the 79th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Jabari has performed with Aloe Blacc, Missy Elliot, Lil Baby, City Girls, 2 Chainz, Rick Ross, and Lil Yachty and choreographed projects for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. In addition to his extraordinary dance credits, Jabari is also an actor, appearing in productions of College Boyfriends, Nick Cannon’s WildNOut, BET’s American Soul, and Sophia Nahli Allison‘s Eyes on the Prize: Hallowed Ground. Jabari studied English at Morehouse College and he is a proud member of The Chi Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc where he served as Stroll Master.

CONRAD R. KELLY II is a native of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he attended Dillard High School of the Visual and Performing Arts. While attending Florida A&M University, he became a member of the Marching 100 and the Strikers. After college, Conrad became a soloist for The Rolle Project in Las Vegas as well as a dance instructor with Studio 305, where he regularly taught classes in hip-hop, contemporary, and jazz dance. He has won numerous awards as a choreographer and dancer. Conrad is a two-time recipient of the DC Commission on Arts and Humanities’ prestigious Arts and Humanities Fellowship Program. He plans to use his extensive performing and teaching experiences to launch a mentoring program for young male dancers.

ISAIAH O'CONNOR is a native of Miami, Florida. He received a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. In college, Isaiah joined the Strikers Dance Troupe under the direction of Shepiro Hardemon and studied hip-hop, modern, and urban soul. He aspires to use his talents to not only perform on stages across the world but to give back to those who helped him along the way. This is Isaiah’s first season with Step Afrika!.

NA’IMAH RAY is a native New Yorker who received a BFA in Dance from Montclair State University. She trained with dancer Dwana Smallwood throughout her youth and was first introduced to stepping in middle school. She joined a step team at age 11 and began competing around New York City. She has trained with artists Earl Mosley, Christian Von Howard, and Beatrice Capote, and participated in dance programs at The Ailey School and Earl Mosley Institute of the Arts. Na’imah performed as a Centennial Stepper with her sorority, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This is her first season with the Company.

VALENCIA ODEYKA EMONNI SPRINGER is a native of Brooklyn, New York. She holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and served as the first “Stand Queen” (captain) with the Ambassadors of Sound Marching band at Virginia Union University. She studied ballet, jazz, African, hip-hop, and contemporary dance at Restoration Youth Arts Academy. Valencia has performed with Forces of Nature, Dance Africa (Brooklyn), and as part of a live installation entitled “A Primordial Place.” She also worked as a social studies and science teacher, dance teacher/coach, guest choreographer for local New York/ Virginia majorette teams, and as a model for New York and Richmond, Virginia, fashion weeks. Valencia is a proud member of the Nu Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. and the Eta Psi Chapter of Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary band sorority.

ERICKA STILL is a native of St. Petersburg, Florida. She began her training at SADA under the direction of Paulette W. Johnson, where she studied tap, ballet, jazz, African, and contemporary dance. Ericka discovered the art form of stepping in middle school as a part of the AKAdemy Exquisite Gems program. Ericka received a Bachelor of Arts in Health Science: Pre-Occupational Therapy and she minored in Rehabilitation Management from Florida A&M University. Throughout college, she studied under the direction of Shepiro Hardemon as a member and Co-Assistant Artistic Director of Mahogany Dance Theatre. This is Ericka’s first season with the Company.

BRIE TURNER is a native of Lithonia, Georgia. She graduated magna cum laude from Howard University with a BA in Strategic, Legal, and Management Communications. Brie began her formal dance training in 2015, which prepared her to serve as the co-captain (2020-2021) and captain (2021-2022) of the Howard University Bisonettes Dance Ensemble. Brie is a Spring 2020 initiate of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated’s Quintessential Alpha chapter where she served as the Chapter President and stroll mistress. This is Brie’s first season with the Company.

JOSEPH VASQUEZ hails from Guttenberg, New Jersey, and has received a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Rutgers University in New Brunswick. In college, Joseph danced with the Bachata Performance Team, where he choreographed and led the team for four years. Joseph is a member of Lambda Sigma Upsilon Latino Fraternity Incorporated, and performs with The Revels, a stroll team led by Francisco Pozo and Carlos Zapata. This is Joseph’s first season with the Company.

PELHAM WARNER is a native of The Bronx, New York and has attended Dutchess Community College. A self-taught dancer of Dancehall and student of Afro Street styles, his true passion can be found in the rhythm and beats of his percussive stepping style. As a teenager, Pelham was a member of The Players Club Steppers. He then found his home stepping with The Order of the Feather Fraternity, where he served as the team’s Step Master and captain for five years. Pelham is an accomplished teaching artist, teaching step to students in the greater New York City area for several years. He recently performed in the a capella musical The Movement by Kathy D. Harrison at The National Black Theater Festival. He is blessed to have the opportunity to continue his passion for stepping, performing, and teaching during his fourth season with Step Afrika!.

ROBERT WARNSLEY is a native of Chicago, IL where he began dancing at the age of 10. After becoming versed in street dance, hip hop, and Chicago footworking, Robert began learning a mix of color guard and traditional stepping at the age of 13. Robert holds a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from Illinois State University, where he stepped and strolled as a member of the Eta Tau chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He served as the step and stroll master for 3.5 years and has organized, competed in, and won numerous step shows with his local chapter of the NPHC. Robert has taught stepping to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and actively participates in community service projects in the city of Chicago. He looks forward to Step Afrika!’s continued cultural exchange with other countries and the opportunity to teach and engage youth in honing their skills for success. This is Robert’s 4th season with the company.

JEREL L. WILLIAMS is a native of Jacksonville, Florida and he has been stepping for more than 20 years. Dance and theater became a part of his life when he joined the Florida A&M University Strikers in 2007, where he trained to be a professional performer. Jerel studied Education at Tallahassee Community College. He served many years traveling to different communities as a student advocate, mentor, stepping, and dance instructor; leading young people through love, unity, and opportunity to reach their full potential. Jerel joined Step Afrika! in September 2016.

JORDAN SPRY, former Assistant Artistic Director of Step Afrika!, is from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, joined Step Afrika! in 2012. He was first introduced to stepping in high school, when he joined the Progressive African American Cultural Society. Jordan attended Howard University (HU) and graduated with a BBA in Marketing. While at Howard, he stepped with Drew Hall Step Team. Jordan served as a head coach for Drew, where he choreographed many first-place winning pieces for the HU Homecoming Step Show. Jordan is also a freelance photographer, choreographer, and creative that is based in Los Angeles, California.

Welcome to another exhilarating season in our historic theatres, filled with the sounds, sights and excitement of the live performing arts. We have so much planned so far this season—rock, pop, folk/Americana, Broadway, jazz, comedy, films, variety shows, family programs and more—and we are continuing to add even more stellar events to the schedule. I hope you will spend some time in our digital playbill and discover all we have going on at the Appell Center for the Performing Arts.

Something for Everyone

This spring we announced the first shows in our 2024-25 season roster. Mark your calendar, or better yet, click HERE or tap into our Season At A Glance in the menu and get your tickets today! 

 As always, the best way to get first access to the best available seats and our new show announcements is to become a Member. Membership starts at just $75 for a full year of amazing benefts for everyone in the household!

A very big THANK YOU to our current Appell Center Members ~ you play a crucial role in our sustainability! It is Membership support that makes it possible for us to foster and inspire the artists of tomorrow, unite friends and loved ones in shared experiences, and cultivate a bustling downtown, while attracting the hottest concerts and theatrical productions for your enjoyment, expanding our education programs and community outreach, boosting York city tourism and nightlife, and preserving our historic facilities. 

Community Focus

In addition to the shows on our stages, the Appell Center is committed to recognizing and celebrating the talent and knowledge found in our community. Our team is involving our community partners and residents to broaden our focus and ensure that everyone has access and is welcome to experience the arts and create art as well. Tap into the menu and read all about it in our Learning & Engagement story. Then think about how you can become involved or have an impact on this work.

Again, welcome to the Appell Center and enjoy the show!

Todd Fogdall
President & CEO

The Strand and Capitol Theatres at the Appell Center for the Performing Arts feature the very best artists and stories from around the region and across the country. We are excited to welcome you to experience the joy and inspiration that can only come from the live performing arts! 

The 2024-25 season is here! We know you will have an amazing experience at this performance, and welcome you to click through all the pages to see all that we have coming this season... You won't want to miss it!

Tickets and Appell Center Memberships can be purchased online at appellcenter.org, in person at 50 N. George Street, York, or by calling the Box Office at 717-846-1111.

COMING SOON

BEN FOLDS (11/15) Widely regarded as one of the major music influencers of our generation, Ben Folds returns to the Strand Theatre following a sold-out performance in 2022! Opening the show is multi-faceted actress, singer and composer Lindsey Kraft. 

CHICAGO THE MUSICAL (11/27) is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, with one showstopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen.

TOM PAPA (12/5), one of the top comedic voices in the country, this accomplished actor, host, author and stand-up comic makes his Strand Theatre debut with all new material. Don’t miss it!

MANDY GONZALEZ ~ Home for the Holidays (12/7), one of the most powerful and versatile Broadway voices of our time, makes her Appell Center debut with a very special program to kick off the holiday season! She's been in HAMILTON, WICKED and the original Broadway cast of IN THE HEIGHTS, and she is currently performing on Tuesday nights on Broadway as ‘Norma Desmond’ in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s revival of SUNSET BLVD. There is no denying she is a star on the rise, and she will be here for one night only!

... there are simply too many shows to list, including COLD CASE LIVE, JEFF BOYER'S BIG BUBBLE BONANZA, comedian EARL DAVID REED, and so much more. Join our email list and get all the news as it happens!

FILM

CAPFILM continues to provide unique opportunities for moviegoers of all ages and styles... 

Click HERE for a full schedule of upcoming CapFilms... including our Art House series, December Holiday films and classic family movies... new titles are being added all the time!

These are just the FALL HIGHLIGHTS ... New events are being added to the calendar all the time, so visit appellcenter.org for the most updated schedule or click on SEASON AT A GLANCE in the menu… and be sure you are on our email list for announcements.

We look forward to welcoming you through our doors often!

The Appell Center is committed to making the performing arts available to everyone in York County. Our Community ConnectTix program expands access to free and discounted ticket to those for whom the price of a ticket is a barrier.

Nonprofit organizations are invited to apply for blocks of tickets (up to 20) for select events so the groups they serve can experience the wonder and thrill of live performance. 

PLATINUM SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS

	WALTON & COMPANY

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

HOSPICE & COMMUNITY CARE

Look around. Here you are, seated in this beautiful, historic theatre about to enjoy a professional, live show right here in York’s downtown! What could be more exciting? This would not be possible without the support of our members.

We are humbled by the generosity of individuals across the county who make it all happen, Appell Center membership support allows us to make a significant impact in York. Members are the reason we have been able to continue entertaining the community for nearly 100 years and maintain these two historic theatres. Their support has allowed us to provide free uplifting experiences to our neighbors for whom the price of a ticket is a barrier and provide free educational programming for a generation of children in school districts throughout York County.

Members have helped us stay the course. Because of them, we remain focused on our mission and are able to throw our doors open for another season full of inspiring entertainment for you!

Our members are passionate about the performing arts. Aren’t you? Make a lasting impact right now by becoming a member of the Appell Center for the Performing Arts. 

For information on the levels and benefits of membership, visit appellcenter.org or contact Kimberly Soderberg, Development Manager, at 717-825-2236 or ksoderberg@appellcenter.org

In August 2022, the Appell Center wrapped up its Centennial Capital Campaign, raising over $7,500,000 to support vital infrastructure improvements and establish a Facility Endowment Fund for much needed improvements to our facility, which will be celebrating its 100th Anniversary in 2025. The summers of 2023 and 2024 saw the completion of many of these improvements, including ADA compliant doors and into the Strand Theatre lobby, highly efficient concessions areas and a brand new HVAC system throughout the facility roof-top units, interior air management devices and system controls, which improves the efficiency and comfort of the building, reduces energy costs and provides cleaner and healthier air. 

We would like to recognize the many loyal and generous community members, foundations and businesses that helped us reach our goal and invested in the future of the performing arts in York County. They deserve a standing ovation!

• Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
• Powder Mill Foundation
• Anonymous
• J. William Warehime Foundation
• W. Dale Brougher Foundation
• Kinsley Foundation
• Helen Appell
• Chandra & Lou Appell
• Arthur J. & Lee R. Glatfelter Foundation
• Glatfelter Insurance Group
• Giambalvo Family Foundation
• The Graham Foundation
• Shipley Family Foundation

• Stephen & Jenn Tansey
• Meg & Peter Brubaker
• New Standard Corporation
• PeoplesBank Charitable Foundation
• Jolene & Julian Tolbert
• Carl & Brenda Vizzi
• Dr. Vincent & Kathryn A. Butera
• Tony & Stef Campisi
• Jane G. Davis
• Hodges Family Foundation
• Dr. Benjamin & Anne Hoover
• Elizabeth M. Imboden MD
• Loren & Faye Kroh
• Lee Fence & Outdoor
• Menchey Music Service, Inc.
• Susanne Motter & Edward Motter
• Ruby & Mark Schmidt
• Bill & Sue Scott
• M&T Bank
• Traditions Bank
• The York Water Company

• Mr. & Mrs. Fred C. Fay
• Kenneth E. Hickman
• Wellspan York Hospital Medical Staff
• Collin Holder
• Kendall & Eric Menzer
• Judith V. Blakey
• Robert A. Bowen
• John & Cappy Bush
• Erda Erdos
• John & Denise Gilliland
• William R. Hartman
• James D. Isett, DMD, MS
• John Schmidt Foundation
• Fran Polk
• Bob & Donna Pullo
• Vance & Suzanne McConkey
• Kris & Tom O'Shea
• Todd & Elaine Fogdall
• Tony & Amy Doll
• Eugene J. Draganosky
• Michael & Melanie Hady
• Sean Gormley
• Debbie Simon & Tim Grumbacher
• Mike & Vicky Kochenour
• Stan & Jane Lebouitz
• Judy Simpson
• Shawn & Chrysta Stine
• Kurt & Barb Thomas
• Todd & Delaine Toerper
• Kira & Jan Wagner
• William & Kimberly Yanavitch II
• Jack Kay
• Joe & Susan Wagman
• RKL
• Doug & Kristin Berman
• Elliot & Krista Gardner
• Rob & Becky Gratalo
• John & Jan Klinedinst
• Erin McGlaughlin
• Katie & Rob Berkebile
• Nate & Sandra Sterner
• The Tolerico Family
• Graham & Elizabeth Zifferer
• Z. D. Bauer
• Don & Jane Dellinger
• Reed & Natalee Gunderson
• Duane & Kristin Moyer
• David & Linda Davidson
• Charles & Holly Wise
• Robert Gantz
• Betsy Keefer
• Stephanie Kessler
• Miodrag Kukrika
• John & Wendy Lakatosh
• Hunter & Emily Mink
• Mike & Jackie Summers
• Jerry Caslow & Dr. Jane S. Sutton
• Robert Godfrey
• Dennis R. Kohler
• Joan & David Stauffer
• Krista & Mike Darr

The Appell Center continues its focus on bringing the very best entertainment to diverse audiences of all ages... but wait, there's more!

In addition to planning the shows on our stages, the entire organization is committed to recognizing and celebrating the artistic talent of our community in many ways. 

Learning Workshops for All Ages

Acting... dance... singing... storytelling... jazz... improvisation... even circus arts! These are just a few of the focus areas that are available for students age 3 and up to explore. PLUS, we have added Tot Rock, an early learning program for our youngest friends age 0-2!

FAMILY WORKSHOP - Theater Games for the Whole Family
Saturday, September 21 • Ages 4 - 10 and their families | 10:00am
Price: Pick Your Price (recommended $15 per Family)

Enjoy a mix of fun theatre games and imaginative storytelling for the whole family that will spark creativity and build confidence through the powerful play of acting and theatre. Family fun is guaranteed, along with great ideas for games and activities to take home for your next family game night.

Taught by Ángel Nuñez, Executive Director of OrangeMite Studios Theater Company.

PRE-TEEN WORKSHOP - Intro to Shakespeare
Saturday, September 21 • Ages 8 - 13 |1:00pm
Price: Pick Your Price (recommended $15 per student)

Step into the world of Shakespeare as this workshop explores scenes from some of the Bard’s classic works. Participants will not only explore the language but build their confidence and enhance their acting skills as they discover the joys and thrills of Shakespearean theatre.

Taught by Ángel Nuñez, Executive Director of OrangeMite Studios Theater Company, York County’s premier Shakespeare-focused theater company.

TOT ROCK RETURNS! 
October 5, 19; November 2; December 7 | 10:00am
Ages: 0-5 and their adults
Price: Pick Your Price (recommended $15 per family)

This early childhood music learning program shares a well-rounded musical experience with infants, toddlers, and their families—an experience rooted in melody, rhythm, repetition and collaboration. Even more important than these musical concepts is the quality time Tot Rock will provide you and your children in a safe, fun, positive space full of music, laughter, and shared experiences. Music can be a foundation of family learning, so let’s make some joyful noise here at the Appell Center!

MONDAY NIGHT IMPROV CLASS with Chris Myers 
Mondays, October 14 – November 18 
All Ages
Price: $130

Come ready to laugh the day away with local actress and improv comedy wiz Chris Myers while learning classic and new wave improv games that will jostle your brain and tickle your funny bone! The six-week session ends with a performance open to the public on the Capitol Theatre stage.

Ages 8 – 12: 6:00 – 7:00pm
Ages 13 – 18: 7:00 – 8:00pm
Ages 18+: 8:00 – 9:00pm
Performance Date: Monday, November 18 at 7:00pm

JUGGLING & OTHER FUN STUFF with Antonio Briley, Jr.
Saturdays, October 19 - November 9 |10:00am
Ages 8+
Price: $80

Have you ever wanted to learn how to juggle? Balance a bowling pin on your chin? Other things? Taught by local phenomenon and man of many talents Antonio Briley, Jr. (you may know him as Bananaman), this four-week class will give you the opportunity to learn and master all the quirky, interesting, and fun skills you’ve ever imagined... and some you haven’t.

Click HERE to register today for one or more of these amazing and unique workshops they will only experience at the Appell Center! 

Community Engagement 

In July 2022 the Appell Center began a collaboration with Creative Generation, a group committed to pioneering projects in the arts and cultural, education and social change fields to support those organizations driving systemic change in their communities. This work produced an actionable plan elevating knowledge within our community to help inform a set of tools to create a societal hub for arts and cultural education in York County, PA. Listening sessions with key partners and their constituents were conducted, and information gathered from those sessions has helped inform the next steps of our strategic plan in this area.

At the completion of the active phase of this collaboration, the following statement was crafted and made public on our website:

The Appell Center for the Performing Arts seeks to be a cultural hub for the community in York.

We play a vital role in the local ecosystem, collaborating with educational, civic and other cultural organizations, informal networks, and individual artists to create experiences as outlets for healthy, creative expression.

Together, we believe in connecting the arts with education, personal wellbeing and family life.

We seek to build meaningful pathways in arts, cultural and creative learning for the York community through consistent, reliable opportunities which provide

• engagement with a diversity of artistic and cultural forms;
• multi-generational creative participation; and
• transformative experiences for creative youth.

We strive to be a relationship-builder, convener and host.

PARTNER WITH THE APPELL CENTER

There are many ways to join us in partnership, but here are some common starting points:

• Attend a free or low-cost workshop and event. We have workshops and classes where you can pick a price that feels right for you and your family.
• Host an event or program at the Appell Center. Our Community Support Fund helps support local non-profits and mission-aligned projects with reduced rental fees.
  
• Bring a group to one of our performances. The Community ConnecTix program offers complimentary tickets to local nonprofit groups every season.
  
• Invite us to support an event or program. Our team can host tables at your events to promote performing arts opportunities in the community.

Click HERE to learn more about our Discovery Sessions and Community Engagement initiatives, and how you might work with us in partnership to bring one of your ideas to the community at large!

Your health and safety are our priority
The Appell Center will continually monitor all health related concerns with guidance from the Pennsylvania Department of Health. All are encouraged to regularly visit our website or call the Box Office for up-to-date information, a list of Frequently Asked Questions and any specific instructions for your scheduled performance.

Bag check
It is recommended that you do not bring any bags with you in order to expedite entry. Bag checks are mandatory and conducted by our security team. Metal (or wooden) rods will be used to search each bag. Guests will be asked to open and hold their own bags while they are being searched for any items not permitted in the building.

Concessions
Concessions are available at both the Capitol and Strand Theatres. All alcoholic beverages are sold in reusable cups which must be purchased with your first drink. Guests are encouraged to bring their cups back to our concessions stands during future visits to purchase drinks at the refill price. Non-Appell Center cups will not be eligible for refills.

Restrooms
Restrooms are located on both levels of the Strand Theatre and on the first floor of the Capitol Theatre. Accessible restrooms are available in both theatres.

Accessible Services
ADA-compliant seating is offered in several locations. Assistive-listening devices are available for all Strand Theatre shows and select films. These devices can be requested from a member of our Front of House staff when you arrive or by calling the Box Office in advance at 717-846-1111. We also offer audio description and closed captioning for some films. Sign language interpretation may be available when requested at least two weeks in advance. Notify the Box Office of any needs when purchasing tickets. We’re happy to arrange the perfect seats and services for you.

Smoking
The Appell Center is a non-smoking facility, including e-cigarettes and vape pens.

Child booster seats
Complimentary booster seats are only available in the Strand Theatre on a first-come, first-served basis. Please see one of our Ushers when you arrive for assistance. 

Electronic devices
We appreciate your cooperation in silencing all electronic devices before the performance begins.

Photo/recording policy
For most events, photography/recording of any type is prohibited. However, for some events, non-professional, non-flash, photography is permitted. Any adjusted policy will be advertised on signs at the entrance to the venue. The Appell Center reserves the right to confiscate any photo or recording device if policies are ignored. Patrons found possessing professional equipment not expressly authorized will be asked to leave their cameras in their vehicles or will otherwise be escorted from the venue.

Click HERE to learn more about our policies.