CapLive:
Karla Bonoff & Livingston Taylor  
Home for the Holidays

Capitol Theatre
Friday, December 9, 2022 | 7:30PM

Karla Bonoff
and
Livingston Taylor

Home for the Holidays

Program to be announced from the stage.

Born and raised in Southern California, KARLA BONOFF was a songwriter by the age of fifteen. She and her sister Lisa were writing songs and playing as a duo titled “The Daughters of Chester P” named after their father, Dr. Chester Paul Bonoff. She had already fallen in love with the guitar and studied with Frank Hamilton of the famous folk group, The Weavers, who taught her The Water Is Wide, arguably one of Karla’s most affecting recordings.

By 16, Karla and her sister Lisa auditioned for Elektra Records. An 11-song demo [recorded by Doors' engineer Bruce Botnick] was recorded but no deal came of this first effort. Karla’s sister became a teacher of history and religion, but Karla’s passion was always music.

Karla became friends with other singer-songwriters and musicians in the burgeoning Los Angeles ’60s music scene, who were creating their own unique sound. She lined up at the legendary Troubadour at noon on Mondays to get a slot in the famous Monday night Troubadour “hoot,” which was a breaking ground for many artists who went on to great success. She says, “It was an amazing time. Jackson Browne, James Taylor and Elton John were around the Troubadour in those days.”

There were some other writer-singers who became friends of Karla’s, and eventually, they decided to put a band together. They were Kenny Edwards, (who had started the Stone Poneys with Linda Ronstadt and Bobby Kimmel), Wendy Waldman, and Andrew Gold. Something powerful in their combined sound drew them together. Thus, the band Bryndle was born—one of the early songwriter groups, even before the Eagles. The band made an album for A&M, but it was never released. They were, unfortunately, a bit ahead of their time. Speaking of the A&M project, Karla says, “They didn't release it. I think they didn’t really know quite what to make of it. This was right before Crosby, Stills and Nash, and before Fleetwood Mac. We were these two girls and two guys... the closest thing they could compare us to was the Mamas and the Papas. They actually had Lou Adler [producer for the Mamas and Papas] produce a single to try to make us like that. In the next few years, had we stayed together, I think we could have done well.” A single, with Karla singing lead, was released from those sessions, but failed to forward the band's career. 

Bryndle broke up, but it launched four very illustrious careers. Kenny and Andrew joined Linda Ronstadt’s band, and through that connection, Ronstadt was to hear a demo of hers. Karla recalled playing a tape of Lose Again for her. “Hey, you know that’s real good,” Bonoff remembers Ronstadt saying, “What else have you got?” On Linda’s Hasten Down the Wind album [released in 1976], there were three Bonoff songs: “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me,” “If He’s Ever Near” and “Lose Again.”

As Ronstadt was scoring hits with Karla Bonoff songs, Karla herself was signed as a solo artist to Columbia Records in 1977. There, she not only recorded the three songs Linda had done, but also the hit single “I Can’t Hold On” and the tune “Home,” which later wound up on one of Bonnie Raitt’s albums. The producer of this great first album [and the next two] was Karla’s old friend and partner, Kenny Edwards. Bonoff then embarked on a solo tour to promote her album, and by the time she reached Seattle, “I Can’t Hold On” was Number 1 in the Pacific Northwest. “I was headlining and I barely had enough songs to play,” Karla recalls, still amazed at the memory. “So I just kept playing them longer!” She went from there to coveted spots on major tours, opening for James Taylor and Jackson Browne and earning a rave review in Time magazine.

Two subsequent albums, Restless Nights [released in 1979] and Wild Heart of the Young released in 1982], established Karla as one of LA’s major artists and songwriters. Musicians such as Russ Kunkel, Joe Walsh, Waddy Wachtel, Danny Kortchmar, Don Henley, Timothy Schmit, Peter Frampton, Bill Payne, J.D. Souther, and her old partners from Bryndle, Wendy Waldman, Andrew Gold and Kenny Edwards all participated in the making of these wonderful records. Karla had a big hit with “Personally” from her album Wild Heart of the Young—a song she did not write. “I’m sure there’s people out there who only know me from this song, but I really enjoyed singing and recording it.”

Karla’s fourth album, New World [first released in 1988], was originally released on Gold Castle, and is now available on the Valley Entertainment label. She began to tour in Japan, where audiences fell in love with her, and where she still has a major presence today.

There's been work in film… she and J.D. Souther wrote songs for the motion picture About Last Night. She is also the voice on the Tom Snow/ Dean Pitchford song “Somebody’s Eyes” from Footloose. In 1994, Karla had a top-ten AC hit single with “Standing Right Next to Me” from the film 8 Seconds. This track was produced by the legendary Keith Thomas (a longtime fan of Karla’s) and written with her old partner, Wendy Waldman.

Throughout the years, Karla has continued to tour with Bonnie Raitt, John Prine, J.D. Souther and others, building up a passionate audience, resulting in sold-out houses everywhere.

In 1990, strange, wonderful things began to happen in Karla’s life and her career came full circle. She wrote three songs which wound up on her old friend Linda Ronstadt's album Cry Like a Rainstorm, Howl Like the Wind. “All My Life,” a duet with Ronstadt and Aaron Neville, won the Grammy for Best Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group, and People magazine ranked it as one of the top five most popular wedding songs. In 1993, Karla’s song “Tell Me Why,” sung by the legendary Wynonna Judd [with Karla on acoustic guitar, and Bryndle members singing backup vocals], was the title song to Wynonna’s second album, and a tremendous hit. The 8 Seconds soundtrack album [released in 1994], featured “Standing Right Next to Me” and a duet with Vince Gill on “When Will I Be Loved,” [a ’70’s hit for Linda Ronstadt] bringing Karla’s sound to an even bigger country music audience.

Karla and her three old partners, Kenny Edwards, Andrew Gold and Wendy Waldman, then decided it was time to put Bryndle back together again. “When we decided to put this band back together,” Bonoff explains, “we realized that one of the things that was wrong with it the first time was that we all wrote separately. We thought it would be great to write together this time. It’s been new and really fun to do that, the four of us.” Twelve out of the 14 songs on Bryndle’s CD were written as a group. In the fall of ’95, after four years of hard work, the first Bryndle CD came out, released in the United States and Japan. The band toured Japan in the summer, then began to tour the United States. Karla had some incredible showstoppers on the record and onstage. “On the Wind,” “Under the Rainbow” and “Daddy's Little Girl” brought the house down every single night no matter where Bryndle played. Bonoff fans flocked to the shows and were thrilled to see her with her old friends, having a great time.

In 1996, Andrew Gold left the band, but Bryndle continued on, performing into the summer of 1997. A duet with the Dirt Band, “You Believed in Me,” written with Wendy Waldman, was released in January of that year on a prestigious MCA album honoring the 1996 Olympics. Progress on Bryndle’s follow-up CD [with the working title of “Bryndle 2”] stopped and started after 1997.

In 1999, Sony/CBS Legacy released All My Life - The Best of Karla Bonoff, a 16-song fully remastered collection spanning Karla's entire career. Karla [accompanied by Kenny Edwards], expanded her touring as a solo artist, growing and building a touring legacy that has seen her play for hundreds of thousands of endearing fans over the years.

In 2001, enthusiasm for the “Bryndle 2” project built up within the band and the recording pace intensified. Regular sessions took place at Kenny’s Santa Barbara studio and Wendy’s San Fernando Valley “Long House Studio.” Former bandmate Andrew Gold contributed to the recording as well. Finally, in the first week of 2002, House of Silence, the second collection of songs from Bryndle, was independently released. 

In November of 2002, Karla, Kenny Edwards and Wendy Waldman played their first show together under the Bryndle banner in more than four years. The setting was an intimate house concert in the Los Angeles area. In 2003, an album documenting that performance was released titled, Live From Russ & Julie’s House Concert. 

In 2007, Karla released a live double CD, a project she had talked about for years, saying at the time, “I think many of these songs have improved with age and I have never really documented what we do as a band.” Karla recorded all but one song of it at a small club in Santa Barbara with her long-time touring band, Kenny Edwards and Nina Gerber, plus Scott Babcock on percussion.

Sadly, during the summer of 2010, Kenny Edwards passed away of cancer. Karla wrote on her website, “I want to thank Kenny for being my teacher, my musical partner and my best friend for the last forty-three years.” One year later, in June 2011, Andrew Gold passed away after suffering a heart attack, another loss for Karla, Wendy Waldman, Linda Ronstadt, and fans of the pioneering work those two did to create a musical movement out of the Southern California Folk-Rock scene.

Karla has continued to record and tour extensively, playing sold-out shows around the world. Hearing Karla’s moving vocals on her rich, expressive songs is like standing beneath a sparkling waterfall—refreshing, exhilarating, restorative. Experiencing them live can be transformative.  Fans and critics agree that Bonoff’s songs are timeless as are her recordings. Many prefer her versions live with instrumentation that is clean and spare, giving Bonoff’s voice room to work its emotional magic.

In 2019, Karla released her first new studio album in over a decade, Carry Me Home, a 16-song set featuring brand new recordings of Karla’s classics along with new songs by Karla, Kenny Edwards, and a cover of a vintage Jackson Browne tune “Something Fine,” which Karla performed on the 2015 compilation, Looking into You: A Tribute to Jackson Browne.

In Late 2020, Karla released, Silent Night, her first collection of Holiday music, to wide acclaim, including a prominent listing on the New York Times Best New Holiday Albums of the Year. In 2021 Karla added two new songs to her Holiday collection including a duet with the legendary Michael McDonald.

The media continues to follow and shine a spotlight on Karla’s ongoing career milestones. She was featured in the acclaimed Linda Ronstadt documentary, The Sound of My Voice, highlighting her friendship with Linda and as the writer of several of her biggest songs, including Grammy Winner, “All My Life.” Bob Lefsetz, a longtime fan, interviewed her for his popular podcast and dug deep into her history as a pioneer of the Southern California Singer-Songwriter scene, Trisha Yearwood’s new album includes a lovely rendition of Karla’s “Home,” Mary Sue Toohey of The Village on Sirius/XM hosted a performance and interview, and she was invited to sing on the longest-running radio program for acoustic music, Acoustic Café.

Karla’s legacy as a writer and perseverance as a performer are spoken best in a Billboard magazine review of Karla’s “All My Life” recording… “(Karla Bonoff) comes from breed of singer/songwriters whose earthly anthems of soul-searching, heartache and joy touched souls in a way few can muster today.”

LIVINGSTON TAYLOR picked up his first guitar at the age of 13, which began a 50-year career that has encompassed performance, songwriting and teaching. Born in Boston and raised in North Carolina, Livingston is the fourth child in a very musical family that includes Alex, James, Kate and Hugh. Livingston recorded his first record at the age of 18 and has continued to create well crafted, introspective and original songs that have earned him listeners worldwide.

From top-40 hits “I Will Be in Love with You” and “I’ll Come Running,” to “I Can Dream of You” and “Boatman,” the last two recorded by his brother James, Livingston’s creative output has continued unabated. His musical knowledge has inspired a varied repertoire, and he is equally at home with a range of musical genres—folk, pop, gospel, jazz—and from upbeat storytelling and touching ballads to full orchestra performances.

Livingston has never stopped performing since those early coffeehouse days, has shared the stage with major artists such as Joni Mitchell, Linda Ronstadt, Fleetwood Mac, Jimmy Buffett, and Jethro Tull, and maintains a busy concert schedule, touring internationally. He is a natural performer, peppering his shows with personal stories, anecdotes and ineffable warmth that connect him to his fans. His relaxed on-stage presence belies the depth of his musical knowledge, and fans might just as often be treated to a classic Gershwin or something from the best of Broadway.

Livingston is a full professor at Berklee College of Music, where he has taught a Stage Performance course since 1989. He teaches young artists invaluable lessons learned over the course of an extensive career on the road; the course is consistently voted the most popular at the College. Former students include Charlie Puth, Liz Longley, and Gavin DeGraw. His book, Stage Performance, released in 2011, offers those lessons to anyone who is interested in elevating their presentation standards to professional standards.

Livingston’s 50th year of making music was celebrated by Boston Mayor Marty Walsh and Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker, both declaring January 18, 2017 “Livingston Taylor Day”. A documentary film entitled Livingston Taylor: Life is Good was released in 2018 at national and international film festivals. It has garnered many awards, nominations and accolades, including The Van Gogh Award for the Feature Documentary category at the Amsterdam International Film Festival. The film is currently available to the public on Amazon. 

In February 2019, Livingston released The Best of LIVe – 50 Years of Livingston Taylor Live. This album features 11 song selections from his LIVe - Livingston Taylor Live Box Set. Upon release, the album was ranked in the top 10 and his song “Good Friends” was #2 on the Folk DJ chart.

In March 2019, the American Public Television special Livingston Taylor Live from Sellersville: Songs and Stories began broadcasting on PBS stations across the country. 

LIVe - 50 Years of Livingston Taylor Live was released in July of 2019. It features 87 never-been-released recordings from live shows from 1969 through 2016. It also includes the documentary film Livingston Taylor - Life is Good and a 54-page commemorative photo book with notes and stories from Livingston. A real treasure for life-long Livingston Taylor fans.

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

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

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

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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

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.

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. 

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.