In support of efforts to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19, Gamut Theatre, a professional regional theatre located in downtown Harrisburg, has announced that it is canceling all public programming through at least Tuesday, Sept. 1.
On March 12, Gamut canceled all public programming through Thursday, April 30, which included the closing weekend of its spring mainstage production of Henrik Ibsen's "An Enemy of the People" and its Young Acting Company production of "Cinderella," featuring 50 students ages 6 to 18.
Gamut's latest decision has terminated many of the theater's annual programs, including Free Shakespeare in the Park, Gamut Theatre Summer Academy, and the Popcorn Hat Players Children's Theatre summer show.
Executive director and co-founder Melissa Nicholson and her husband, Clark Nicholson, co-founder and artistic director, have monitored what was happening in other countries, like China, particularly in regards to reopening entertainment venues.
In the meantime, Gamut has offered its building to city, county, and state officials for community use should it be needed.
Gamut will explore alternative programming options during the shutdown period, including a virtual online Gamut Theatre Summer Academy, master classes in Shakespeare study, and educational resources for teachers to use in their online classes. The company has maintained an online presence since the closure. For example, each Wednesday a different core company member presents a talent, skill, or interest to share with the general public through social media, and Clark Nicholson adds a new chapter each week to "How We Came to Run the Gamut" published at http://www.gamuttheatre.org.
Gamut is planning for the 2020-21 season with an eye toward minimal expense and maximum safety for all participants, whether actors, students, or patrons.
Gamut Theatre is the combined theater company of Popcorn Hat Players, Children's Theatre and Harrisburg Shakespeare Company. Gamut's mission is to tell classic stories in new and exciting ways. More information is available at the aforementioned website.
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