History That Doesn’t Suck!
with Professor Greg Jackson

Capitol Theatre
Saturday, November 18, 2023 | 7:30pm

Four score and some months ago (ahem), I started this podcast with a few dozen listeners and an ardent desire to make US history fun and accessible. I never imagined it would grow as it has, now consistently placing among the Apple® and Spotify® top history podcast charts with more than 100 episodes and millions of downloads to date.

I adapted HTDS for the stage for the same reason I first created the podcast: to bring important stories from the past, both well-known and forgotten, back to life. History is full of rich, complex, and complicated situations and people. We sometimes forget this when saddled with a name-and-date heavy textbook, but I reject the idea that good history has to be a dry, ivory-tower telling. In brief, good history doesn’t have to be told in a way that sucks.

Tonight will be different from the podcast. We will enjoy the magic of lights, images, and comradeship — all the joys of theater and stagecraft. As much as I want you to enjoy these added aspects, I hope you’ll allow the stories to be the key element that paints a picture in your mind. While this is an evening of spectacle and rigorous research, the key element, in my humble opinion, is getting lost in the audible experience as our ancestors did before the bard gave way to streaming. Above all, I am here to tell you a story.

I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
Greg

Professor Greg Jackson is best known as the creator, host and head writer of the popular US history podcast, History That Doesn’t Suck®. He is also a frequent commentator in film documentaries including the 2022 HISTORY® Channel three-night event Abraham Lincoln, which was Executive Produced by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Doris Kearns Goodwin and featured former President Barack Obama, among other history scholars. Professor Jackson holds a Ph.D. in history and is a tenured Associate Professor and Senior Fellow in National Security Studies, as well as Fellow of Integrated Studies at Utah Valley University.

Chapter I: Game of Empires
The mighty French and British empires are playing a game of chess with their colonies in North America. Young George Washington, in his first command of a colonial militia, stumbles into a dust-up with French troops and their Native American allies, which inadvertently ignites a world war. Finding themselves pawns in the game, American colonists contemplate forming a “union.”

Chapter II: Death and Taxes
Spoiler alert: Britain wins the war with France and gains disputed territories in North America. However, more territory means more problems, and Britain needs money. Parliament begins to tax the colonies for the first time ever, and the sparks of a revolution fly in New England.

Chapter III: The Rebel Alliance
The violence in New England has turned deadly for colonists and costly for Parliament. Parliament ups the ante in this game with its Coercive Acts to bring these rebellious colonies into line. “Americans,” as expressed by Patrick Henry, throughout the colonies are now sympathetic to Bostonians suffering under Parliament's levy and view the latest acts by Parliament as “intolerable.”

Chapter IV: The Empire Strikes Back
King George III doesn’t back down and views the colonies as blatantly rebellious; “blows must decide” the outcome. Colonial delegates from each state gather in Philadelphia. They debate fiercely on a course of action and ultimately declare independence for their “league of friendship,” the United States.

Chapter V: United “Nations”
Now united, and with an assist from France, American colonies pull off an upset in overthrowing British rule to become their own nation. Okay, now what? How will they govern “the people”?

Chapter VI: We Hold These Truths?
The Declaration set a lofty vision for what this new union of nation-states will become. Rallying against a common foe is different than providing for the common good when ideals and economic interests collide.

Chapter VII: An Imperfect Union
The American union fractures from a divide that the founders never resolved because of positions that, James Madison had admitted less than a century earlier, were rooted “principally from their having or not having slaves.”

Chapter VIII: From the Bloodiest Day to a Proclamation
Bloody, historic, horrible war rages. President Lincoln uses all the power granted a wartime Commander in Chief and finally ends the insidious institution at root in the divide: slavery.

Chapter IX: Total War and Politics
Lincoln overcomes formidable challenges to win a second term, but to win in war and politics he must become a “radical” leader. Conclusion: Our Better Angels “We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection…this broad land will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature.” -Abraham Lincoln

Production

Creator, Head Writer and Host
Greg Jackson

Producer and Director
Dossie McCraw

Cello
Alexander Taylor

Violin
McKenna Taylor

Graphic Design
Tim Bryant

Theme Music
Greg Jackson

Music & Arrangement, Airship Productions
Lindsay Graham

Sound Design, Airship Productions
Mollie Baack

HTDS Operations
Kelsi Dynes

HTDS Editorial
Will King

Special Thanks:

HTDS Live was first staged at the Bartlett Performing Arts Center in Tennessee, January 2022. Special thanks to Michael Bollinger, Artistic Director of Bartlett Performing Arts Center for his friendship and ongoing support!

Special thanks as well to the Professor's wife Sue Jackson! Despite her own busy career as a professor and university administrator, the "other" Dr. Jackson has been nothing but supportive of the countless hours sunk into HTDS over the last six years. Also to the Prof's sister Diana, brother Bradford, and mother Susan for their support.

Follow HTDS Podcast:

If you liked what you heard tonight, you can listen to new
episodes every other week on all podcasts platforms and YouTube.

Think of HTDS as covering the basics of what an American should but possibly doesn't know (or has forgotten) about history. Each episode stands on its own as a story, but taken together, they will also walk you through a survey of US history that starts with the Revolution and will (eventually)
go right up to the present.

Facebook, Instagram, Threads: @Historythatdoesntsuck; Twitter/X: @HTDSpod; or online at HTDSpodcast.com.

Book HTDS Live: Dossie@HTDSpodcast.com

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

We recently announced the first shows in our 2025-26 Centennial season. Since August 27, 1925, the Strand Theatre has served as a cultural gem of York County, and our centennial celebration will be one to remember! Click HERE or tap into our Season At A Glance in the menu for info on all the amazing fun we will have! 

 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 2025-26 Centennial Season has been announced and tickets are selling fast! We know you will have an amazing experience at tonight's performance, and welcome you to click through all these pages to see what we have coming up this year... You won't want to miss any of 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.

GLENN TILBROOK OF SQUEEZE (7/18/25) - New Wave band Squeeze’s legendary frontman takes the Strand Theatre stage bringing classics like “Tempted,” “Pulling Mussels (From the Shell)” and “Black Coffee in Bed,” deep cuts and solo gems. Witness the unmistakable voice, dazzling guitar work, and charming storytelling of one of the UK’s most beloved songwriters up close and personal in the historic Capitol Theatre. Tilbrook’s son, Leon, will open the show with his signature sound of chamber pop music.

JIMMIE VAUGHAN & THE TILT-A-WHIRL BAND (8/19/25) - When it comes to the blues today, there are a handful of guiding lights to make sure the music stays true to its history. Jimmie Vaughan has dedicated his life to making sure the blues not only stays alive, but remains full of life and an inspiration to all who listen. It’s a spirit he holds close to him, and for almost 60 years, Vaughan isn’t about to stop now. Get your tickets now for his CapLive debut!

THE BACON BROTHERS FREESTANDING TOUR (6/28) Two of the most iconic names in music and acting, Kevin and Michael Bacon, bring an unforgettable night of music that blends rich rock, soulful grooves, and the perfect hint of country. From heartfelt ballads to foot-stomping jams, this performance will be packed with energy, emotion and that unmistakable Bacon charm. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, a night with The Bacon Brothers is a journey through storytelling, music and memories.

... there are simply too many shows to list! Check out our new season brochure and join our email list to 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, a host of iconic Anniversary films back on the big screen and classic family movies... new titles are being added all the time!

These are just the HIGHLIGHTS ... New events are being added to the calendar all the time, so check in often at 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!

Fri, Jul 18 | 7:30pm
Glenn Tilbrook of Squeeze

Tue, Aug 19 | 7:30pm
Jimmie Vaughan & The Tilt-A-Whirl Band

Thu Aug 28 | 7:30PM
The Bacon Brothers 
Freestanding Tour

Sat, Sep 13 | 10am - 2pm
FREE Strand Centennial Community Day 
featuring Squonk, local artists, tours, 
activities and more!

Sat, Sep 20 | 7:30pm
Strand Centennial Celebration
One Night Only: An Evening with 
Sutton Foster & Kelli O’Hara
with the York Symphony Orchestra

Thu, Sep 25 | 8pm
The Wallflowers

Sat, Sep 27 | 7:30pm
Black Violin: Full Circle Tour

Sat, Oct 4 | 7pm
CapFilm: CatVideoFest 2025

Sun, Oct 5 | 7:30pm
The Vampire Circus - 
The Scariest Side of Cirque

Fri, Oct 10 | 7:30pm
Whose Live Anyway?
Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops,
Jeff B. Davis and Joel Murray

Sat, Oct 11 | 7:30pm
YES – The Fragile Album
(on sale 6/13)

Sun, Oct 12 | 7:30pm 
Blackberry Smoke -
Rattle, Ramble and Roll Tour 2025

Thu, Oct 16 | 7pm
John Crist: Jokes for Humans Tour

Sat, Oct 18 | 7pm 
CapFilm: The Rocky Horror Picture Show
50th Anniversary

Wed, Oct 22 | 7:30pm 
Tommy Emmanuel

Fri, Oct 24 | 7:30pm
Strand Legends: 
Del McCoury Band

Sat, Nov 1 | 7pm 
CapFilm: Studio Ghibli Film Series:
My Neighbor Totoro

Mon, Nov 3 | 7:30pm
Joanne Shaw Taylor

Sat, Nov 8 | 7pm 
CapFilm: Studio Ghibli Film Series:
Howl’s Moving Castle

Sun, Nov 9 | 7:30pm
I’m With Her
Wild and Clear and Blue 2025

Mon, Nov 10 | 7:30pm
TINA: The Tina Turner Musical
Glatfelter Insurance Broadway Series

Wed, Nov 12 | 7:30pm
Colin Hay

Fri, Nov 14 | 7:30pm
Dusty Slay - The Night Shift Tour

Sat, Nov 15 | 7pm 
CapFilm: Studio Ghibli Film Series:
Ponyo

Sat, Nov 15 | 7:30pm 
Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox
Magic, Moonlight & Mistletoe

Fri, Nov 21 | 7:30pm
Home Free - Let Me Come Home Tour

Sat, Nov 22 | 7pm
CapFilm: Studio Ghibli Film Series:
The Wind Rises

Sat, Nov 22 | 7:30pm
Strand Centennial Spotlight:
An Evening with Jay Leno

Sun, Nov 23 | 7pm
A Motown Christmas

Wed, Dec 3 | 7:30pm
The Wood Brothers

Sat, Dec 6 | 3:30pm & 7pm
Sun Dec 7 | 3pm
CapFilm: White Christmas

Mon, Dec 8 | 7:30pm
Hadestown
Glatfelter Insurance Broadway Series
(Subscription sales only at this time)

Sat, Jan 24 | 7:30pm
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra
with Wynton Marsalis

Sat, Jan 31 | 11am
Doktor Kaboom: Under Pressure!
Menchey Music Family Series
(Subscriptions on sale the week of 10/6)

Thu, Mar 12 at 8pm
Kinky Boots
Glatfelter Insurance Broadway Series
(Subscription sales only at this time)

Sat, Mar 21 at 11am
Stone Soup...And Other Stories
Menchey Music Family Series
(Subscriptions on sale the week of 10/6)

Wed, Apr 8 | 7:30pm
Roger McGuinn

Sat, Apr 18 | 11am
Trout Fishing In America
Menchey Music Family Series
(Subscriptions on sale the week of 10/6)

Tue, Jun 9 at 7:30pm
Meredith Willson’s The Music Man
Glatfelter Insurance Broadway Series|
(Subscription sales only at this time)

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!

TOT ROCK
Sat, May 17 | 10AM • Ages 0-5 and their adults
Cost: Pick Your Price (recommended $15 per student)

This early childhood music learning program got its start in West Chester, PA, and taking the show on the road to share 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. Adult participation, interaction and conversation is encouraged, especially during the time for free play. Participating families are welcome to come to all of our Saturday morning classes, or just drop in once or twice. Classes are approximately 30 minutes, allowing for focused play at the start of your weekend.

ANTONIO'S IMAGINATION HOUR

Sat, May 17 | 10:45AM • Ages 4-8
Cost: Pick Your Price (recommended $15 per student)

Join Antonio Briley, Jr. (AKA Bananaman) for a fun and interactive 45-minute junior acting class, where young actors dive into the world of imaginative play!

For kids ages 4 – 8, this class focuses on building social skills, confidence, and creativity through fun games and exercises. Students will explore character creation, teamwork, and storytelling in a supportive environment, helping them connect with others and express themselves. Whether they’re a natural performer or a little shy, every child will have the chance to shine and enjoy the magic of acting!

SUMMER PROGRAMS ARE BACK!

The Appell Center once again offers summer learning opportunities that inspire, excite and empower young artists. We provide the tools and connections to bring theater, performance and arts of all kinds into the lives of all ages.

SOUND EFFECTS CAMP
July 9 - 11 | 9AM - 12PM • Ages 8-13
Cost: $110 per participant*

You’re watching a sci-fi movie. The villain’s henchmen pull out their laser guns, start shooting and you hear…..silence?

Most movie-goers take the sounds and music in their favorite films for granted, but they’re key to a great movie. You’ll work with producer and musician Chris Loser to sound design a short film and learn all about “foley” – the art of finding, or creating, just the right sound for whatever is happening on-screen. Then watch your work on the big screen with friends and family at the end of the week!

* Scholarship funds are available! 
Contact ajmyers@appellcenter.org for more information.

Photo by Vancouver Film School Retouched version by User: Quenhitran – Flickr: Foley Room at the Sound Design Campus, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37013580

IMPROV COMEDY INTENSIVE -
A one-day crash course in improv comedy!
Thu, July 10 | 10AM - 5PM • Ages 8-12 | REGISTER
Fri, July 11 | 10AM - 5PM • Ages 13-18 | REGISTER
Sat, July 12 | 10AM - 5PM • Ages 18+ | REGISTER
Each session includes a final performance at 4PM, open to the public.
Cost: $70 per participant

If you’ve ever considered trying your hand at improv comedy, this one day intensive is your chance to dive in! 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!

DO NOT FEAR! Massive brain growth and rapid development of a positive outlook, self-confidence and personal resourcefulness are simply useful by-products!

GREAT FILMS, STARRING YOU
July 28 - August 1 | 10AM - 4PM  • Ages 12 – 18 (entering grade 7+)
Cost: $220 per participant*

“Great Films, Starring You” emphasizes film appreciation and critical thinking through storytelling, acting, writing and improvisation. Led by local actress and improv comedy expert Chris Myers, participants will spend each morning watching classic films, and then spend the afternoon planning and recreating iconic scenes. 

This experience encourages active observation and creative exploration of plot, theme, character, relationships, emotions and subtext. Focus will not be on the technical intricacies of filmmaking, though some will be touched upon as necessary.

All students will receive their own copy of the final film that will premiere on the big screen of the historic Capitol Theatre.

* Scholarship funds are available! 
Contact ajmyers@appellcenter.org for more information.

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.