Strand Theatre
Saturday, April 27, 2024 | 7:30pm
Glenn Miller Orchestra
This event will be a phone-free experience. Use of cellphones, smart watches, smart accessories, cameras, or recording devices will not be permitted in the performance space.
Highlights
1935 – Glenn began recording under his own name for Columbia. His instrumental ‘Solo Hop’ reached the Top 10.
1937 – Glenn organized his own touring band and signed to Brunswick records.
1938 – The group was unsuccessful, and was disbanded.
1939 – The Orchestra played at the Glen Island Casino, NY, a major swing venue, and was heard on radio.
17 Top 10 hits including ‘Sunrise Serenade’; ‘Moonlight Serenade’; ‘Wishing (Will Make It So)’. Chart-toppers: ‘Stairway to the Stars’, ‘Moon Love’, ‘Over the Rainbow’, ‘Blue Orchids’, ‘The Man With the Mandolin’
His ‘Moonlight Serenade’ radio series for Chesterfield aired on CBS three times a week.
1940 – ‘Tuxedo Junction’ sold 115,000 copies the first week. ‘Pennsylvania 6-5000? was released.
31 Top 10 hits: ‘Careless’, ‘When You Wish Upon a Star’, ‘Imagination’, ‘Fools Rush In (Where Angels Fear to Tread)’, and ‘Blueberry Hill’; ‘The Woodpecker Son’. ‘In the Mood’ and ‘Tuxedo Junction’ were inducted in the Grammy Hall of Fame.
1941 – Another 11 Top 10 hits: The band made the movie, Sun Valley Serenade, introducing ‘Chattanooga Choo Choo’, soon a million seller.
#1 hits: ‘Song of the Volga Boatmen’, ‘You and I’, ‘Elmer’s Tune’.
1942 – 11 Top 10 hits and 3rd year as the top recording artist with ‘American Patrol’, ‘A String of Pearls’, ‘Moonlight Cocktail’, ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree (With Anyone Else but Me)’ and (I’ve Got a Gal) In Kalamazoo’ which came from Miller’s second film, ‘Orchestra Wives. The end of Miller’s dominance of popular music when he received an officer’s commission in the Army/Air Force. Glenn organized a service band, performed at military camps, and hosted a weekly radio series.
1943 – Two more Top 10 hits including #1 ‘That Old Black Magic’.
1944 – Took his band to Great Britain, performed for the troops and did radio broadcasts. On December 15th, Glenn Miller boarded a transport plane to Paris, never to be seen again.
1945 – ‘Glenn Miller’, an album of 78 rpm records, topped the newly instituted album charts and became the most successful album of the year.
1947 – ‘Glenn Miller Masterpieces, Vol. 2? topped the album charts.
1954 – Miller was the subject of a partly fictionalized film biography, The Glenn Miller Story, starring James Stewart.
2003 – Miller posthumously received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Biography
“A band ought to have a sound all of its own. It ought to have a personality.” – Glenn Miller
Alton Glenn Miller was born in Clarinda, Iowa on March 1, 1904. But it was in North Platte, Nebraska, several years later that Glenn actually got his musical start when, one day, his father brought home a mandolin. Glenn promptly traded it for an old battered horn, which he practiced every chance he got. In fact his mother worried, “It got to where Pop and I used to wonder if he’d ever amount to anything.”
In 1923, Miller entered the University of Colorado, although he spent more time traveling to auditions and playing where and whenever he could. After flunking three of his five courses one semester, Glenn dropped out to concentrate on his career as a professional musician.
He toured with several orchestras and ended up in Los Angeles where he landed a spot in Ben Pollack’s group, a band that included a guy named Benny Goodman. Here, Miller also got the chance to write some arrangements. Arriving in New York City, he soon sent for, and married his college sweetheart, Helen Burger in 1928, and for the next three years, earned his living as a free-lance trombonist and arranger.
Miller played and recorded with the likes of Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey (who on several of their records, featured an up-and-coming singer by the name of Bing Crosby), Gene Krupa, Eddie Condon and Coleman Hawkins. In addition, during that time, Glenn cut 18 sides for Goodman, and also worked for radio studio conductors like Victor Young, Carl Fenton and Jacques Renard. In 1934, Miller became the musical director of the Dorsey Band, and later went on to organize The Ray Noble Orchestra, which included such players as Charlie Spivak, Peewee Erwin, Bud Freeman, Johnny Mince, George Van Eps and Delmar Kaplan, among others.
In April 1935, Glenn Miller recorded, for the first time, under his own name. Using six horns, a rhythm section and a string quartet, he recorded “Moonlight on the Ganges” and “A Blues Serenade” for Columbia. But selling only a few hundred records, he continued his position with the Noble Orchestra.
In 1937, Glenn Miller stepped out to form his own band. There were a few recordings — one for Decca and one for Brunswick — a couple of week-long stints in New Orleans and Dallas, and many one-nighters, but it was not to be. Though the group would play one more date several days later in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Glenn gave his men their final notice on New Year’s Eve at the Valencia Ballroom in York, Pennsylvania. Broke, depressed and having no idea what he was going to do, he returned to New York City.
It is said that Miller could never remember precisely the moment he decided to emphasize his new reed section sound. But it was during this disheartening interim, that he realized the unique sound — produced by the clarinet holding the melodic line while the tenor sax plays the same note, and supported harmonically by three other saxophones — just might be the individual and easily recognizable style that would set his band apart from all the rest.
Formed in March 1938, the second Glenn Miller Orchestra — which would later include the likes of Tex Beneke, Marion Hutton, Ray Eberle, Paul Tanner, Johnny Best, Hal McIntyre, and Al Klinck — soon began breaking attendance records all up and down the East Coast. At the New York State Fair in Syracuse it attracted the largest dancing crowd in the city’s history. The next night it topped Guy Lombardo’s all-time record at the Hershey Park Ballroom in Pennsylvania. The Orchestra was invited by ASCAP to perform at Carnegie Hall with three of the greatest bands ever — Paul Whiteman, Fred Waring and Benny Goodman — and created more of a stir than any of them.
There were record-breaking recordings, as well, such as “Tuxedo Junction”, which sold 115,000 copies in the first week. “In the Mood”, and “Pennsylvania 6-5000?, all appearing on the RCA Victor Bluebird label. In early 1940, Down Beat Magazine announced that Miller had topped all other bands in its Sweet Band Poll, and capping off this seemingly sudden rise to the top, there was, of course, Glenn Miller’s “Moonlight Serenade” radio series for Chesterfield cigarettes which aired three times a week over CBS. In 1941, it was off to Hollywood where the band worked on its first movie, “Sun Valley Serenade”, which introduced the song — and soon-to-be million selling record –”Chattanooga Choo Choo”, and featured the Modernaires and the Nicholas Brothers. Then came “Orchestra Wives”. But the war was starting to take its toll on many of the big bands as musicians, and the rest of country’s young men, began receiving draft notices.
On October 7, 1942, Alton Glenn Miller reported for induction into the Army and was immediately assigned to the Army Specialist Corps. His appointment as a Captain came after many months of convincing the military higher-ups that he could modernize the army band and ultimately improve the morale of the men. His training complete, he was transferred into the Army Air Corps, where he ultimately organized the Glenn Miller Army Air Force Band. Miller’s goal of entertaining the fighting troops took another year to be realized, but in late 1943 he and the band were shipped out to England.
There, in less than one year, the Glenn Miller Army Air Force Band engaged in over 800 performances. Of these, 500 were broadcasts heard by millions. There were more than 300 personal appearances including concerts and dances, with a gross attendance of over 600,000. But Glenn was not to participate in the final six months of these activities.
In the Fall of 1944, the band was scheduled to be sent on a six-week tour of Europe and would be stationed in Paris during that time. Miller decided to go ahead, in order to make the proper arrangements for the group’s arrival. And so, on December 15th, Glenn Miller boarded a transport plane to Paris, never to be seen again.
In his book “Glenn Miller & His Orchestra”, George Simon wrote this about the man. “His favorite author was Damon Runyon. His favorite book was the Bible. Spencer Tracy and Olivia de Havilland were his favorite movie actor and actress. His big loves were trout fishing, playing baseball, listening to good music, sleep and money. His pet hates were bad swing, early-morning telephone calls (he liked to sleep from 4 a.m. to noon), and the phrase ‘goodbye now’. His favorite quotation, one he stated, was not from the Bible, nor from Runyon, but from Duke Ellington: ‘It Don’t Mean a Thing If it Ain’t Got that Swing!’
Welcome back for 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, and we are continuing to add even more stellar events – rock, pop, folk/Americana, Broadway, jazz, comedy, films, variety shows, family programs and more! 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.
Exciting Improvements
At the start of 2022, we launched our Centennial Campaign to help fund much needed improvements to our facility, which will be celebrating its 100th Anniversary in 2025. The summer of 2023 saw the completion of many of those improvements, and we are proud to welcome you through our new ADA compliant doors and into the Strand Theatre lobby where we have new and improved concessions areas that will allow for more efficient service during performances. In addition, we have replaced the 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. Thank you to all those who have supported these projects, whether financially or with their expertise and assistance.
Something for Everyone
On October 2nd we will be announcing a dozen or so additional events to our season roster... mark your calendar! As always, the best way to get the best available seats for these new shows is to become a Member!
We will continue to announce new amazing performers coming to our stages in the coming months. Simply tap into our Season At A Glance in the menu for the full calendar of shows in our 2023-24 season.
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.
Thank You
A very big THANK YOU to our Appell Center Members, a crucial component of 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, as well as attract the hottest concerts and theatrical productions for your enjoyment, expand our education programs and community outreach, boost York city tourism and nightlife and preserve our historic facilities. If you are not currently a Member, please consider how you can help keep the Appell Center the vibrant cultural hub it is today.
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 continue to 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! And this Spring we have something for everyone!
Here are some highlights… with more being added!
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.
2023-24 Season highlights include:
GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA (4/27) – Don’t miss the most popular and sought after big band in the world today for both concert and swing dance engagements. With its unique jazz sound, the Glenn Miller Orchestra, formed in 1956, is considered to be one of the greatest bands of all time.
THE BOOK OF MORMON (4/30; 5/1) – Only a few seats remain for the showThe New York Times calls “the best musical of this century.” The Washington Post says, “It is the kind of evening that restores your faith in musicals.” And Entertainment Weekly says, “Grade A: the funniest musical of all time.” Jimmy Fallon of The Tonight Show calls it “Genius. Brilliant. Phenomenal.” It’s THE BOOK OF MORMON, the nine-time Tony Award®-winning Best Musical. Contains explicit language. Presented locally as part of the Glatfelter Insurance Group Broadway Series.
PLENA LIBRE (5/4) – Thrilling audiences around the world for nearly three decades, these masters of traditional Puerto Rican plena and bomba styles fuse mesmerizing hand drumming, stellar horns and soaring vocal harmonies with modern Afro-Caribbean sounds, putting an electrifying spin on this already exhilarating music.
President & CEO, Todd Fogdall says: “We are thrilled to announce the first shows in our 2023-24 season, with a list that touches a wide range of musical genres, plus comedy, celebrities, our first podcast-based show and some huge Broadway titles -- The Book of Mormon, Come From Away and The Cher Show. Tickets are going to move fast and we encourage our guests to become a Member so they can assure their tickets to the many shows that are yet to come.”
FILM
CAPFILM continues to provide unique opportunities for moviegoers of all ages and styles...
Don't miss First Friday FREE Family Films, sponsored by UPMC, each and every First Friday. Mark your calendars for films coming soon...
THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG (5/3) – A modern twist on a classic tale from Walt Disney Animation Studios features the beautiful Tiana (Anika Noni Rose) who dreams of owning her own restaurant. When she meets a Frog Prince (Bruno Campos) who desperately wants to be human again, a fateful kiss leads them both on a hilarious adventure through the mystical bayous of Louisiana… with the villainous voodoo magician Dr. Facilier (Keith David) in hot pursuit! Sponsored by UPMC.
...and coming in June... DISNEY PIXAR'S TOY STORY 2 (6/7)!
Click HERE for more CapFilms, including our brand new Art House Film Series: Image, Sound and Silence, Anniversary screenings and more!
These are just the HIGHLIGHTS of our schedule! New events are being added to the calendar all the time, so visit appellcenter.org for the most updated schedule of events… and be sure you are on our email list for announcements.
While we are no longer requiring COVID safety precautions, unless required by artists or rising conditions, our audiences can have confidence that their Appell Center experience will be healthy and safe. We continue to encourage guests to wear masks should they choose. Our facilities are sanitized before and after all performances, deep cleaning practices are in place, and our HVAC systems feature MERV 13 filtration and maximum fresh air circulation. Up-to-date health and safety information is always available at appellcenter.org.
We look forward to welcoming you through our doors often in the coming months!
2023-24 SEASON UPCOMING EVENTS
Sat Apr 27 @ 7:30PM
Glenn Miller Orchestra
Sat Apr 27 @ 7:30PM
Start Making Sense: A Talking Heads Tribute
Sun Apr 28 @ 3PM
CapFilm: The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou
Tue Apr 30 @ 7:30PM
Wed May 1 @ 7:30PM
The Book of Mormon
Part of the Glatfelter Insurance Broadway Series
LOW TICKET ALERT!
Fri May 3 @ 5:30PM
Jazz in the City: A Funky Side of Jazz
Fri May 3 @ 6:30PM
Free First Friday Family Film:
Disney The Princess and the Frog
Sat May 4 @ 7:30PM
Plena Libre
Sun May 5 @ 3PM
Image, Sound & Silence: An Art House Film Series
In the Mood for Love
Sat May 11 @ 7PM
GALAVANT 2024: Mardi Gras Masquerade
Wed May 15 @ 7:30PM
CapLive: Josh Ritter
"Works In Progress + Songs You Know" solo show
Sun May 19 @ 3PM
CapFilm: The Matrix
25th Anniversary Screening
Fri May 24 @ 7:30PM
Little River Band
Fri Jun 7 @ 5:30PM
Jazz in the City: A Percussion Blowout!
Fri Jun 7 @ 6:30PM
Free First Friday Family Film:
Disney Pixar Toy Story 2
Sun Jun 9 @ 3PM
Image, Sound & Silence: An Art House Film Series
Bicycle Thieves
Sun Jun 23 @ 3PM
Image, Sound & Silence: An Art House Film Series
The Passion of Joan of Arc
Sat Jul 13 @ 7:30PM
CapLive: XPN Welcomes
Aoife O'Donovan & Hawktail
Thu Jul 25 @ 7:30PM
Old Gods of Appalachia
Unhallowed Grounds
A Live Podcast Storytelling Experience
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.
Welcome to our Community ConnecTix partner organizations!
18 South Youth Center
Bell Socialization Services, Inc.
Children's Home of York - Angel Center
Community Options
Crispus Attucks York
Employers Education Foundation c/o Manufacturers' Association
Latinos Unidos of York
Life's New Beginning
Manufacturers' Association
Mightly Mehal Foundation
NAMI York-Adams Counties PA
Northeast Neighborhood Association
Not One More-York Chapter's Family Connections Program
Penn-Mar Human Services
Rising STARS Crispus Attucks
Salvation Army
South Central Senior Center
Spring Grove Regional Parks and Rec Center
The Program, It's About Change
Theatre Arts for Everyone (TAFE)
Typical Life Corporation
Valley Youth House
White Rose Senior Center
York County Food Bank-Online Pantry Program
York County Hispanic Coalition
Youth Development Center
YWCA York
Click HERE for more information on how to apply and become part of Community ConnecTix!
PLATINUM SPONSORS
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BRONZE SPONSORS
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SUPPORTING SPONSORS
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Executive Committee
Chair Kira Wagner
Vice Chair/DEIA Chair Elaine Bonneau
Immediate Past Chair/Governance Chair Gene Draganosky
Treasurer/Finance Chair Victoria Connor
Facilities Chair Kyle Jones
Partnership Chair Natalee Gunderson
Directors
Mary Beth Ching
Martin Fedorko
Re. Dr. Mark Kearse
Jenette Lloyd-Jones
Daniel Meckley
Thomas O’Shea
Dr. Kurt Thomas
Dr. Paul Tolerico
Larissa Tosch
Elizabeth Zifferer
Louis Appell, Jr. 1978-81
Anne C. Hoover 1981-84
Leroy A. King, Jr. 1984-85
William B. Zimmerman 1985-86
Fran E. Ports 1986-87
Terence J. Kearney 1987-88
William R. Hartman 1988-89
Richard C. Hogentogler 1989-90
Benjamin A. Hoover, II 1990-91
Erda G. Erdos 1991-92
John G. Yates 1992-93
Delaine A. Toerper 1993-94
Louis J. Appell, Jr. 1993-95 (Foundation)
Michael H. Hady, III 1994-95
Shawn A. Stine 1995-96
Benjamin A. Hoover, II 1995-97 (Foundation)
Judy Simpson 1996-97
Jeffrey W. Byers 1997-98
John C. Schmidt 1997-99 (Foundation)
William J. Scott, III 1998-2000
Morton F. Zifferer, Jr. 1999-2001
Anne W. Kinsley 2000-01 (Foundation)
Timothy P. Ruth 2001-02
Leroy A. King, Jr. 2001-02 (Foundation)
Benjamin A. Hoover, II 2002-04
Leroy A King, Jr. 2004-06
Michael Heine 2006-08
Charles Wise 2008-2010
Anthony Campisi 2010-2012
Joel Menchey 2012-2014
Loren Kroh 2014-2016
Eric Menzer 2016-2018
Krista Gardner 2018-2020
Gene Draganosky 2020-2022
Administration
President & CEO Todd Fogdall
Director of Finance Trevor Alford
Administrative Assistant Carol Potter
Box Office
Senior Box Office Agent Julie Lavetan
Box Office Agent Bea Campbell
Development
Director of Development Mindi Haines
Development Manager Kimberly Soderberg
Development & Education Assistant Dan Crowell
Marketing
Director of Marketing Debra L. Volz
Marketing Content Manager Dave Hoffheins
Education
Director of Education & Community Engagement AJ Myers
Operations
Director of Operations Amanda Spalla
Operations Manager Aidyn Vargas
Operations Assistant Jeremy Kilgore
House Manager Stephanie Becker
House Manager Shaye Holmes
House Manager Tina Meckley
House Manager Megan Miller
House Manager Daniel Poole
House Manager Jeffrey Tierno
House Manager Jay Yeaple
House Manager Bridget Young
Production Staff
Production Express Steve Shelley, Owner
Head Tech Jamie Heath
Volunteers
Bob Albright
Sandy Aldinger
Janet Alibrandis
Henrietta Alicea
Mary Alpaugh
Maliik Anderson
Yul Baker
Linda Baugher
Cliff Beck
Janene Beck
Sally Beck
Steve Beck
Stephanie Becker
Claudia Besecker
Joan Book
Margaret Bowen
Cindy Brown
Joann Byrne
Ron Byrne
Lin Carlson
Amy Cathell
Carol Cottingham
Carol Cousins
Isabella Cousins
Arthur Curtis
Cathy Dalton
Janet Deamer
Katherine Delauder
Melvin Doyle
Bob Ehlenbeck
Ellen Ehlenbeck
Susan Epley
Cheryl Everhart
Iris Ferber
Cherie Flaherty
Bradley Flinchbaugh
Rick Fonda
Arnie Fritzius
Dennis Fry
Linda Fry
Regina Giuffrida
Evelyn Godsey
Pauline Gross
Peach Hamm
Duane Herbert
Brian Hershner
Linda Hershner
Cindy Hoehn
Beth Holt
Stephen Holt
Betsy Holtzman
Brian Honeychuck
Bill Houghton
Rhonda Jones
Debra Kemper
Brenda Kiger
Shirley Klinedinst
Robert Kluk
Laura Koebnick
Bennett Leas
Tamara Leas
Diane Leib
Rina Leo
Gabby Linnell
Kelly Linnell
Jim Loehwing
Kim Lombardo
Jonathan Lopes
Bonnie Martin
Annie Massin
Pam McIntosh
Suzanne Mescan
Sheri Mickley
Kathy Mierzwa
Connie Miklusek
Sally Miller
Greg Mitchell
Lucinda Morrisson
Anne Nichol
Paul Nichol
Dave Norris
Jean Norris
Rosha Parker
Pat Parks
Linda Paules
Darwin Peiffer
Phyllis Peiffer
Clay Pinckney
Joyce Porteus
Carla Purdy
Syd Purdy
Kathy Raio
Tim Raio
Santos Ramos
Meg Rea
Adele Rossiter
Russ Sarich
Ginny Schucht
Sam Schucht
Terri Scott
Moninne Seitz
Peggy Selway
Sarah Shaver
Tamar Smallwood
Janet Smith
Sheryl Smith
Roy Snoke
Joan Snyder
Christine Staats
Tracy Stabler
Darrell Steckler
Benjamin Stein
Cindy Stoltzfus
Stephanie Stough
Doris Sullivan
Marty Tassia
Lori Topper
Steven Tracy
Jen Trout
Tess Trueheart
Ana Tuali
Custer Ugbome
Mike Vernon
Sue Wallick
Teddie Waltermyer
Rev. Joshua Wargo
Lisa Welch
Paul Welch
Sharon Whitmore
Anita Wiedenhaefer
Jason Wolf
Carolyn Woods
Mary Yeaple
Scott Yingling
Jeanette Zeiders
Marian Zeiler
Mark Zortman
Nancy-Ann Zortman
For almost 100 years, many of the biggest names in entertainment have been featured on the historic stages in front of you. Each show takes the skills and talent of our staff and crew to happen, but we simply cannot forget the very special members of our Appell Center family, without whom none of this would have been possible…
Our Appell Center volunteers and ushers—and there have been hundreds of them over the years—have made this place work for decades.
You meet them first when you first approach the theatre and then as you walk in our doors. Their warmth and friendliness, professionalism and courtesy, inform everyone’s first impression of the Appell Center experience, especially our newer guests.
We often hear from patrons about their experiences while visiting for a live show, learning workshop or film screening, detailing how wonderful our ushers are... how kind and helpful in whatever situation they find themselves in. Often times, this is followed up with a question of how others can join our Volunteer corps!
Looking for something fun, rewarding and community-building? We are always looking for new volunteers to serve as ushers, lobby greeters, bartenders, and more!
For more information on becoming a volunteer, please click HERE.
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
TAP THE AD TO MAKE A DONATION
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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 summer of 2023 saw the completion of many of these improvements.
Today we are proud to welcome you through our new ADA compliant doors and into the Strand Theatre lobby where we have new and improved concessions areas that will allow for more efficient service during performances. In addition, we have replaced the 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
This season, 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, we are committed as an organization to recognize and celebrate the artistic talent of our community in many ways.
Learning Workshops for All Ages
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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! Most workshops are "pick your price," with a suggested $15 per student, in order to increase access to arts learning for all!
Here are a few photo highlights...
TOT ROCK!
COMEDY IMPROV INTENSIVE
SONGWRITING 101 with Amanda D'Archangelis
WHAP-AMA-PHONE Instrument Building at Keystone Kidspace
This fall, we launched "Third Saturday Worshops" - all with a "pick your price" model in order to increase access to arts learning for all. Each third Saturday features a workshop for our young ones and their families, and another for our pre-teens (age 8-13).
In mid-September, Angel Nuñez led two fun, interactive workshops for students in puppet making (age 4-7) and set design (age 8-13).
In October, Jasmine “PAN” Taylor introduced students to the world of poetry with and "Stories That Rhyme" for our young ones, and "Spoken Word: Writing and Performing" for our 8- to 13-year-olds.
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In November Krystal Younglove, an award winning artist and circus sweetheart based here in York, led a unique Circus Arts experience building hula hoops and learn introductory skills in the art of hula hooping.
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WINTER 2024 WORKSHOPS
Third Saturday Workshops continue in 2024 - reserve your spot for these amazing learning opportunities!
January 20
10AM - Relative Laughter Hour - Family Workshop
The family that plays together, stays together! Bring your tots, teens and Great-Aunt Maggie to participate in a playful hour chock full of light-hearted improv games and big ole belly laughs! Families will learn and play games that theater actors use to get their creativity flowing.
1PM - Intro to Improv Comedy (ages 8-13)
Improvisational activities sharpen listening skills, encourage mindfulness, develop resourcefulness and build self-confidence… and are loads of fun! In this workshop, kids will have a hoot playing improv games, building stories and creating characters, both individually and with others. Oh, yes, there will be laughter – and lots of it!
February 17
10AM - Ballet for Everyone - Family Workshop
1PM - Ballet for Everyone - Ages 8-13
Athletes have used ballet as a way to stay in shape and improve their performance for years. Families will join REACH! Founder and Juilliard graduate Jason Reed for an opportunity to learn about the benefits of dancing for everyone, and your chance to try it out. A great chance for anyone who has been thinking about starting dance classes to get their feet wet!
March 16
10AM - Music Composition and Improvisation - Family Workshop
1PM - Music Composition and Improvisation - Ages 8-13
Making music is fun – making music together even more so! Come join local pianist and composer Matt Monticchio and see how making music spontaneously can lead to writing entire songs! No prior music experience necessary – just come ready to learn.
MASTERCLASSES
Audition season is coming up! Whether you’re preparing for school musicals, District Band or college auditions, the ability to prepare yourself mentally, arrive in the right headspace, and reaching a state of flow is invaluable. On January 20, Peter Matthew Smith will lead a masterclass in musical theater, where aspiring performers can learn the ins and outs of preparing a song, nailing an audition, and life as part of some of Broadway’s biggest hit shows. Most recently King George in the Angelica Touring Company of Hamilton, Peter Matthew Smith’s career on Broadway includes roles in the original productions of RENT, Mamma Mia, Hairspray and the revival of Fiddler on the Roof.
Our Teaching Artists and Staff did not stop there...
In spring 2023, Appell Center Teaching Artists visited 55 classrooms across nine elementary school, working in different art forms with over 1,000 students to reinforce themes from April's Stage the Page performance of The Gruffalo. Additionally, the Appell Center partnered with York City School District’s 21st Century After School Program to provide an arts enrichment program throughout the month of May. This program has expanded to six schools in the district for the 2023-24 school year.
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!
Covid-19 policy
For current policies and updates, please visit appellcenter.org.
The Appell Center will continually monitor Covid-19 data 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.
