Strand Theatre
Saturday, December 16, 2023 | 7:30pm
Dru Hill
SisQo, Nokio, Jazz
Smoke, Black
Scola, Tao
DRU HILL
Founded in 1992 as “14K Harmony,” the group, discovered by manager Kevin Peck, evolved to become “Dru Hill” in 1996, engraving itself into the legacy of R&B music and bringing a dynamic sound to the ever-changing industry. Known for hits like “Tell Me,” “In My Bed,” “Never Make a Promise,” and “How Deep Is Your Love,” the group has given the world music for the ages.
Over the last 25+ years, Dru Hill has received multiple awards, performed across the world, topped the Billboard music charts multiple times, and has sold over 40 million records worldwide. Recording new material and continuously performing at sold-out venues around the globe, Dru Hill continues to solidify its legacy as one of the greatest groups of all time. Most recently, Dru Hill was the recipient of the Urban Music Icon Award presented by Black Music Honors.
In honor of their 25th Anniversary in the music industry, Dru Hill is featuring all members of the group, past and present, to give fans an experience they will never forget. Alongside founding members SisQo, Nokio, Jazz, and the latest additions Smoke and Black from the R&B group “Playa,” former members Scola and Tao rejoin the dynamic lineup. The group has exciting surprises in store for its expanding fan base everywhere.
SISQO - The DRAGON
SisQo, the dynamic frontman and founding member gives the group its edge and soulful flavor. Singing since the age of two, he has harnessed an incredible talent for taking amazing songs to new heights with his powerhouse vocals. Known for his trend-setting style, choreography and universal reach, his musical brilliance shines brighter for fans with each passing year.
NOKIO - The N-TITY
Nokio, founder and in-house producer for the group, has given Dru Hill its mass appeal and staying power for over two decades. Since the age of 14, his genius as a vocalist, songwriter, producer and entrepreneur has blended to give the group its timeless sound and limitless potential. As an artist, continuously growing across genres, he brings a unique ability to cross musical thresholds, while still staying true to fans all over the world.
JAZZ - The BULL
Original member and anchoring vocalist, Jazz, is the smooth yet sophisticated voice that put a gentle touch on Dru Hill hits like "Tell Me," "Never Make a Promise," and more. Classically trained, he grew up in a family of singers that gave him the inspiration to touch the world through music. After 20 years, his vocal versatility and indispensable talents as a songwriter and producer still leave audiences wanting more.
SCOLA - DINERO
Scola (born Rufus Waller on March 2, 1978) is an African-American singer, dancer and musician. Scola is best known as the fifth member of Dru Hill, with whom he has written and sung lead on songs such as "I Love You", "Old Love", and "I Should Be". He has also recorded his own solo R&B album "From EA To Cali", on his own label Victory Records. He is also known as Ruscola. Where he has singles like Let's Get Personal & Mood For Love from the album One Love...One Struggle.
BLACK
Black is a singer, songwriter, and producer whose smooth vocals have graced the hits of iconic artists like Aaliyah, Timbaland, Jodeci, and Ginuwine. He became internationally known as part of the R&B group, Playa, which is best known for their smash hit, “Cheers 2 U,” released on Def Jam Recordings in 1998. He brings a soulful vibe and a hit-making pen to Dru Hill, adding to their timeless sound and classic legacy.
TAO - The SOPRANO
Growing up, Tao always stood out as an exceptional vocalist and since joining the Dru Hill family in 2008, he has helped the group rise to new levels of greatness. Tao helped to make singles like “Love MD” and “Back to the Future” instant fan favorites. His addition to the group adds another dimension of sound to the already-immaculate harmony that Dru Hill is renowned for.
SMOKE - E. DIGGLERA
Smoke E. Digglera is a Grammy-award winning vocalist, songwriter, producer, and label owner. He rose to fame as lead singer of the R&B group, Playa, whose hit single "Cheers 2 U" reached #3 on Billboard’s R&B/HipHop chart. Since then, he has worked alongside artists like Jodeci, Drake, and Chris Brown. He comes to Dru Hill offering a dynamic range and songwriting ability... ready to blaze the trail to the next era of R&B.
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 heasting up! 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
SEÁN HEELY'S CELTIC CHRISTMAS (12/20) Champion Scottish fiddler Seán Heely and a cast of nationally-acclaimed Celtic performers take us on a magical journey through Scotland and Ireland during the holidays. Kilts and tartan abound as the show travels through ancient Gaelic carols and songs, tucked in perfectly with lively Irish tunes and familiar Christmas melodies with a Celtic twist.
LANGHORNE SLIM & OLIVER WOOD (1/23) Join us for an unforgettable evening of raw, heartfelt performances as WXPN Welcomes two of the most captivating American Roots singer-songwriters take the Capitol Theatre stage.
TINA - THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL (1/27) Glatfelter Insurance Broadway Series
An uplifting comeback story like no other, this is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock n’ Roll. Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, this electrifying sensation will send you soaring to the rafters.
DEAR EVAN HANSEN (3/26) Glatfelter Insurance Broadway Series
Declared “one of the most remarkable shows in musical theater history” by the Washington Post, DEAR EVAN HANSEN is the first musical to take a groundbreaking look—from the point of view of both the parents and young people—at our complex, interconnected and social media-filled lives.
... there are simply too many shows to list! 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 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.
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!
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
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:
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.