Film lovers – today you will unite with over 100,000 other film enthusiasts around the world during this 25th Annual MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival to help determine the Best Film and Best Actor awards through your voting ballot.

The Final Ten MANHATTAN SHORT finalists hail from eight countries with films from Scotland, Czech & Slovakia, Spain, Australia, Finland and Lebanon, alongside two films each from France and USA. These Final Ten Films represent the best short films from among 870 submissions from 70 countries received by MANHATTAN SHORT for 2022, testimony to the enduring vibrancy and creativity of short films worldwide.

If the 10 short films presented by MANHATTAN SHORT have one common theme, it’s how people deal with adversity in its various forms. Short films like “The Blanket,” “Freedom Swimmer” and “Freefall” explore how individuals react when caught up in large-scale, traumatic events. Adversity on a more personal level is the focus of short films like “Warsha,” “Fetish,” “The Big Green” and “Love, Dad.” Sometimes, the response is laughable, as in “Save the Bees” and “The Treatment,” especially when even the universe seems to be against you, as in “Don vs Lightning.” How these stories are told is varied as the directors that tell them. In short, there is plenty of drama and comedy interwoven with surprisingly effective newer ways of storytelling like animated documentaries. MANHATTAN SHORT also is a showcase for rising-star actors and recognizable favorites like Disney stalwart Peton List and Scotsman Peter Mullan, himself a prize-winning director, appearing in unexpected, talent-stretching roles.

The MANHATTAN SHORT Final Ten
Don vs Lightning (Scotland)
Love, Dad (Czech & Slovakia)
Save the Bees (USA)
The Treatment (Spain)
Freefall (France)
Fetish (USA)
Freedom Swimmer (Australia)
The Blanket (Finland)
Warsha (Lebanon)
The Big Green (France)

All Final Ten short films become Oscar-qualified, meaning they will be automatically eligible for an Academy Award nomination by screening for a week at the Arena CineLounge in Hollywood in the county of Los Angeles from September 23–29.

You Are the Judge!

Which of these Final Ten short films is the best? Today you will become instant film critics allowing you to vote for the Best Film and Actor. Your votes will be sent through to MANHATTAN SHORT HQ with the winner announced at ManhattanShort.com on Monday, October 3 at 10AM EST.

MANHATTAN SHORT began in 1998, when founder Nicholas Mason gathered an audience of 200 people and showed 16 short films on a screen mounted to the side of a truck on Mulberry Street, Little Italy, New York City. A year later the film festival moved uptown to Union Square Park NYC, where audiences grew to love the annual event. From these humble beginnings, MANHATTAN SHORT has now transformed into a worldwide phenomenon. Celebrating its 25th birthday in 2022, MANHATTAN SHORT is the only film festival on the planet to unfold simultaneously, in more than 500 cinemas on six continents, bringing over 100,000 film-lovers in all corners of the globe together for one week, via the next generation of filmmakers.

I am pleased to have you join us here in our historic theatres for the start of what will be a very exciting season, filled with the sounds, sights and exhilaration of the live performing arts. We have been working nonstop to plan a season that has something for everyone to enjoy – rock, pop, folk/Americana, jazz, comedy, films, variety shows, family programs and more. Simply stated, there will be joy in the air… and much more still to come!

Something for Everyone

At the end of September, we will announce new performances coming to our stages. While I cannot name them all in this space, I welcome you to tap into the “2022-23 Season” feature story in the menu and either mark your calendar or, better yet, click through each event and order your tickets right now! 

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.

Turning 100

At the start of 2022, we launched our Centennial Campaign to help fund much needed improvements to our facility, celebrating its 100^th Anniversary in 2025. We have now come to the close of the campaign which raised over $7.6 million. Preparation has already begun, and I will report progress in the coming months. Thank you to all in the community who have supported this project, whether financially or with their expertise and assistance.

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.

Going Digital

Finally, you are now reading this letter on your digital device rather than in a printed book, as we have navigated toward a new program platform. This digital space will allow us to not only bring you content about the show you will be seeing, but also the most up-to-date information on our season, our community and all our programs. In turn, we are reducing the environmental costs of paper production and waste. Please look around; tap into the menu to see it all… and stay tuned as we will continue to send you more news and stories throughout the season. 

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

Todd Fogdall
President & CEO

The Strand and Capitol Theatres at Appell Center for the Performing Arts continue to feature the very best artists from around the state 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 Fall we have something for everyone!

Here are some highlights… with more being added every week!

OCTOBER

On October 4 don’t miss Toad the Wet Sprocket celebrating 30 years as a band and still performing with the same spirit of unwavering independence that started it all over three decades ago.

COME ON DOWN! The Price is Right Live is coming to the Strand on October 6 and all are eligible to be contestants and play classic games from Plinko™ to Cliffhangers™ to The Big Wheel™ and even the fabulous Showcase for a chance to win big prizes.

On October 8, celebrate “joy as an act of resistance” (Toni Dericotte) with Resistance Revival Chorus . This 60+-member collective of womxn and non-binary singers breathe joy and song into the resistance, and uplift and center womxn’s voices. Chorus members represent a multitude of identities, professions, creative backgrounds, and activist causes, calling for justice and equity for womxn across racial, ethnic, economic, sexual identity and religious lines; harnessing the collective power of womxn to help change the world; and celebrating each other through song. You will not want to miss this very special event.

On October 15, gather the whole family to experience a breathtaking homage to the power of air. In Air Play umbrellas fly, fabrics soar over the audience, balloons swallow people, and snow swirls, filling the stage. With stunning images and gales of laughter, Air Play bounces on the edge of definition: part comedy, part sculpture, part circus, part theater, bringing to life the very air we breathe.  

October closes out with a weekend of legendary performers. On October 28, Tracy Morgan makes his Strand Theatre debut on his No Disrespect Tour. One of the most well-respected comedians in his field, Morgan will have you rolling in the aisle with laughter. And on October 29, we are bringing back INVINCIBLE: A Glorious Tribute to Michael Jackson with an ALL-NEW SHOW, featuring song and dance routines MJ created but never had the opportunity to bring to the national stage and your favorite greatest hits.

NOVEMBER

In November the Strand Theatre will be filled with the electric sounds of some of the most revered performers of our time. We open on November 1 with the guitar power of Joe Satriani as he brings his Earth Tour 2022-2023 to York. On November 6, Lindsey Buckingham returns to the Strand Theatre to perform his solo hits and the most loved songs from his time as the musical visionary of Fleetwood Mac. We are thrilled to also announce the return of the legendary Gladys Knight to the Strand Theatre stage on November 17, performing her #1 hits. Very few singers over the last fifty years have matched her undeniable talent, and later this year she will presented the Kennedy Center Honor for her lifetime artistic achievement. Get your tickets now! We also welcome Black Violin on its Give Thanks Tour hitting our stage on November 19. Bringing their signature fusion of classical and hip hop, these guys should not be missed.

DECEMBER

Jazz returns to the Strand Theatre on December 3 as we welcome back Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra for Big Band Holidays featuring the incomparable Dianne Reeves and the smooth and sultry tones of emerging jazz vocalist Samara Joy. 

FILM

This fall CapFilm has some unique opportunities in store for moviegoers! 

First Friday Free Family Films are back each and every First Friday starting on September 2 with Lucas/Spielberg’s The Land Before Time, followed by Encanto on October 7, and two beloved Dr. Seuss films: The Lorax on November 4 and The Grinch (starring Jim Carrey) on December 2.

On October 22, Brand and Janet are in trouble and seek refuge in the mansion on the hill. Little do they know about the inhabitants and partygoers they are about to encounter, as Rocky Horror Picture Show returns to the Capitol! Our festivities will be led by Baltimore’s Chocolate Covered Rocky shadowcast who are guaranteed to get you up and doing the Time Warp in the aisles! And prop bags are included with your ticket… order today!

… and these are just the HIGHLIGHTS of our Fall season! 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 are all looking forward to an exhilarating season and welcoming you often.

SEPTEMBER

Sat Sep 24 @3:30PM
CapFilm: Manhattan Short Film Festival

Sat Sep 24 @7:00PM
CapFilm: Manhattan Short Film Festival

Sun Sep 25 @3:00PM
CapFilm: Manhattan Short Film Festival

Wed Sep 28 @7:00PM
CapFilm: Dio: Dreamers Never Die

OCTOBER

Sun Oct 2 @3:00PM
CapFilm: Dio: Dreamers Never Die

Tue Oct 4 @7:30PM
Toad the Wet Sprocket 

Wed Oct 5 @7:00PM
CapFilm: Billy Joel Live at Yankee Stadium

Thu Oct 6 @7:30PM
The Price is Right Live!

Fri Oct 7 @5:30PM
Jazz in the City

Fri Oct 7 @6:30PM
First Friday Film – Encanto FREE!
Sponsored by UPMC

Sat Oct 8 @7:30PM
Resistance Revival Chorus

Sun Oct 9 @7:00PM
CapFilm: Billy Joel Live at Yankee Stadium

Fri Oct 14 @7:30PM
CapComedy: JL Cauvin with Chris Lamberth

Sat Oct 15 @2:00PM
Air Play – Circus and science collide!

Sat Oct 22 @10:00PM
CapFilm: Rocky Horror Picture Show featuring Chocolate Covered Rocky Horror

Sun Oct 23 @4:00PM
Popovich Comedy Pet Theater

Fri Oct 28 @7:30PM
Tracy Morgan – No Disrespect

Sat Oct 29 @7:30PM
Invincible: A Glorious Tribute to Michael Jackson

NOVEMBER

Tue Nov 1 @7:30PM
Joe Satriani – Earth Tour 2022-2023

Fri Nov 4 @5:30PM
Jazz in the City

Fri Nov 4 @6:30PM
First Friday Film – Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax FREE!
Sponsored by UPMC

Sun Nov 6 @7:30PM
Lindsey Buckingham

Fri Nov 11 @7:30PM
CapLive: XPN Welcomes Darlingside with Caitlin Canty

Fri Nov 17 @7:30PM
Gladys Knight: Sponsored by Glatfelter Insurance Group

Fri Nov 18 @7:30PM
CapComedy: Zack Johnson with Bob Lauver

Fri Nov 19 @7:30PM
Britain’s Finest: The Complete Beatles’ Experience

Sat Nov 19 @7:30PM
Black Violin

DECEMBER

Fri Dec 2 @5:30PM
Jazz in the City

Fri Dec 2 @6:30PM
First Friday Film – Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch (2018) FREE!
Sponsored by UPMC

Sat Dec 3 @7:30PM
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Dianne Reeves & Samara Joy – Big Band Holidays

Fri Dec 9 @7:30PM
CapLive: Karla Bonoff & Livingston Taylor – Home for the Holidays

Fri Dec 16 @7:30PM
CapComedy

PLATINUM SPONSORS

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BRONZE SPONSORS

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, this summer we committed ourselves as an organization to recognize and celebrate the artistic talent of our community in many ways. 

Open Stages Launch

On June 3 we introduced a new OPEN STAGES project, where we flung open our doors and invited all to come out and walk on the stage to perform, explore or just “be.” This inaugural event was a celebration of not only the arts, but of Pride, and teens were encouraged to do with the space whatever brought them joy. 

Discovery Sessions

In July, led by Seth Laidlaw, our Director of Education and Community Engagement, we 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 will produce 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 over the course of two days, and information gathered to help inform the next steps of our strategic plan in this area.

Summer Camp Success

July also saw the return of summer camps to our Studio space, led by teaching artist professionals. Talented youth in grades 3-6 gathered for a week to “Build A Play” from the ground up, including script, casting, acting, set design, costuming, props and program design. Later in July, the Appell Center Show Choir was formed of singers in grades 6-10 to learn a host of songs from pop to Broadway, with the final project of a Broadway Medley. Both camps then presented their work to a public audience of family, friends and community members. We are still hearing from campers that the experience was a true highlight of not only their summer, but of their lives!

Baby Rave Is Born

August First Friday saw the introduction of our first BABY RAVE, a family focused dance party for all ages, but specifically for up to age eight. For two hours on the Strand stage, families gathered to dance, play games, have their faces painted or get a glow in the dark tattoo, have snacks and just have a great time. Keystone Kidspace was on hand with activities as well and the photo booth was active with smiling faces all around. Look for news of our next Rave coming soon!

York Arts Week All Access

On August 25, SIGHTLINES, presented as part of York Arts Week, provided an “all-access pass” to our performing and gathering spaces for a variety of events and activities, featuring several visual and performing artists from the community. Fine arts and photography were on display, promising vocalists competed in the Strand Sing-Off, Temple Guard presented a powerful display, social justice held the spotlight with a film and talk-back, and so much more. Once again, this event was free and welcome for all to participate.

“The Appell Center envisions its venues to be a cultural hub for the community and a connecting point to celebrate the diversity of York County,” states Seth, who is leading our team on its commitment to this work. “We hope these new opportunities will bring our community together, just like the performing arts are meant to do.”

There is so much more to come! This season brings new workshops, discussions and events that explore the performing arts, teach new skills and engage more meaningfully… all with the intention of coming together as a community. Learn more at www.appellcenter.org/education.

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.

Coat check

A complimentary coat check is available in the Strand lobby. The Appell Center for the Performing Arts is not responsible for personal property left in the coat check room.

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 picked up at the coat check. 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 at the coat check on a first-come, first-served basis.

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.

Visit AppellCenter.org/FAQ to learn more about our policies.

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.