Update August 11, 2020
A message from ABT Producers, Kiel & Cassandra Klaphake: Planning for the future!
To our ABT Family,
First and foremost, we hope this message finds you and your family happy, healthy and safe. We want to take a moment to let you know how we’ve been managing these extraordinary times and provide an update on plans to resume programming at Arizona Broadway Theatre.
It’s been nearly 5 months since we shuttered our doors as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Following CDC recommendations and Arizona Governor Doug Ducey’s Executive Order restricting large gatherings within the state of Arizona, the curtain came down on our new production of Chicago a mere two days after opening, resulting in hundreds of employee layoffs and the indefinite postponement of all theatre and educational programming.
Since then, our Executive Leadership Team has been working diligently to determine a path forward that will give audiences some idea of when the theatre can reopen safely. Based on recent national industry projections including Broadway and the Actor’s Union, all prudent indicators point to a January 2021 reopening. Most importantly, we are committed to reopening with protocols and procedures in place that address the health and safety of our patrons, employees, and volunteers.
Chicago will be the first full production to return to the ABT stage. Everything is ready. The set is still there, the costumes are hanging on the racks, and the talent is standing by. We can’t wait to breathe life back into this long awaited show. Along with the return of Mainstage musical theatre productions, plans for additional Fall interim programming are in development.
These programs include outdoor performance opportunities for family and senior audiences as well as tentative plans for larger outdoor productions to be staged in the West Valley. We all need something to look forward to, and since it is not safe yet to gather indoors, we are working hard to find creative ways to bring ABT directly to you. Future announcements regarding these programs as well as a 2021 show schedule will be forthcoming on the theatre’s website and social media platforms in the weeks to follow.
Although the thought of reopening is tremendously exciting, we have a long road ahead of us to get to January, as the costs to maintain our facility are substantial. ABT’s ticket sales account for 90 percent of our operational budget, and with no revenue coming in since March, the financial stress is significant.
In recent weeks, Kiel has had numerous conversations with City of Peoria staff regarding the potential devastation that a continued shutdown will have on ABT as a cherished Peoria non-profit theatre company and event destination. We remain optimistic about the City’s willingness to uphold their commitment to local arts by playing a pivotal role to mitigate the catastrophic economic impact of COVID-19 on small businesses like ABT.
“The arts add to the exceptional quality of life that we know and love in Peoria, support our mental and general well being, and highlight the unique characteristics of our residents and our community,” said Mayor Cathy Carlat back in June of this year. “Our city is not complete without a strong representation of the arts.”
Prior to the postponement, Arizona Broadway Theatre was the largest producer of musical theatre in the state with robust educational programs and additional entertainment offerings.
We want you to know this is only an intermission. We will survive. The overwhelming support of patrons, friends and fans like you – both locally and from across the country – has been incredible. As one longtime patron recently said to us…”we were with you in 2005 when you had to open the first show in a tent and we’re going to be with you now…be it in a tent, in a parking lot, or wherever you can make the magic happen. The virus is not your fault. We will do what it takes…for however long it takes…because we love you.”
We can not thank you enough for sticking with us. The show will go on!
Sincerely,
Kiel & Cassandra Klaphake
Producers | Arizona Broadway Theatre
Update July 7, 2020 Donate Today
Update June 24, 2020
As we continue to see daily reporting of record-breaking COVID-19 infection rates in Arizona and as this Pandemic continues to create great concern in our community and across the nation, Arizona Broadway Theatre will remain at an indefinite “Intermission.”
ABT staff have prepared plans for a TBD phased reopening that will first address the safety of our patrons, employees and actors ahead of all else. While we want nothing more than to raise the curtain on another amazing ABT production, we must first acknowledge the reality that this crisis is far from over. We encourage Arizonians to adhere to all safety protocols, guidelines, and local ordinances:
– wear a mask when out in public
– continue to social distance
– wash hands frequently
– stay home
The sooner the numbers go down, the closer we will be to getting BACK ON STAGE!
We are currently evaluating our online programs and scheduling. Please check back regularly in the days and weeks to come.
We miss you, we care for you, and we want nothing more than to again share in the magic, imagination, and joy of LIVE theatre with all of you as soon as we possibly can.
The ABT Team
Update June 22, 2020
ARIZONA BROADWAY THEATRE joins 17 other Arizona arts & cultural organizations requiring patrons and visitors to wear masks upon reopening Click Here
These 17 Arizona arts and culture organizations will require visitors to wear masks
Update June 10, 2020
COVID-19 Reopening Update – Wednesday, June 10, 2020 (sent via email) Click Here
Update June 9, 2020
Craft 7 of MAKERS-MONDAYS with ABT Prop Master MARY ROONEY Click Here
Update June 5, 2020
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER, KIEL KLAPHAKE talked with AZFAMILY Ch3 CBS 5’s Monica Garcia about the challenges ABT faces to reopen. Click Here
Update June 4, 2020
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER, KIEL KLAPHAKE talked with FOX10’s Stephanie Olmo about the plans for reopening. Click Here
Update June 2, 2020
ABT PATRON COVID-19 SURVEY Click Here
Update May 30, 2020
EP7 MEMORIES: STORYTIME-SATURDAYS with ABT’s MARY POPPINS Click Here
E10 TALES FROM THE DARKSIDE: “Quarantined” AFTER DARK CABARET (recorded May 29) Click Here
Update May 29, 2020
THROWBACK-THURSDAYS with ABT alums Tommy Bracco and Mark DiConzo (recorded LIVE May 28) Click Here
Update May 27, 2020
Class 8 of WORKOUT-WEDNESDAYS with ABT alum Samantha Ross Click Here
Update May 25, 2020 (MEMORIAL DAY and NATIONAL TAP DANCE DAY)
HAPPY NATIONAL TAP DANCE DAY Click Here
Update May 23, 2020
EP6: NATURE – STORYTIME-SATURDAYS with ABT’s MARY POPPINS Click here
HOLLYWOOD GLAMOUR “Quarantined” AFTER DARK CABARET (recorded LIVE May 22) Click Here
Update May 22, 2020
THROWBACK-THURSDAYS with ABT alums Jennifer Bell and Michael LaMasa (recorded LIVE May 21) Click Here
Update May 20, 2020
Class 7 of WORKOUT-WEDNESDAYS with ABT alum Samantha Ross Click Here
Update May 19, 2020
Class 7: TAP-A-LONG-TUESDAYS with Kurtis Overby Click Here
Update May 16, 2020
COMEDY TONIGHT! EP8 of “Quarantined” AFTER DARK CABARET (recorded LIVE May 15) Click Here
Update May 15, 2020
THROWBACK-THURSDAYS with Valley Music Director James May and ABT Resident Music Director Josh Condon (recorded LIVE May 14) Click Here
Update May 14, 2020
Class 6 of WORKOUT-WEDNESDAYS. This week with ABT alum and Personal Trainer ALISSA TUCKER Click Here
Update May 12, 2020
Class 6 of TAP-A-LONG TUESDAYS with KURTIS OVERBY Click Here
Update May 9, 2020
MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL “Quarantined” AFTER DARK CABARET (recorded LIVE May 8) Click Here
Episode 4 MUSIC: STORYTIME-SATURDAYS with ABT’s MARY POPPINS Click Here
Update May 7, 2020
THROWBACK-THURSDAY with Brad York and Renee Koher – Gomez & Morticia Addams in THE ADDAMS FAMILY (2019) CLICK HERE
Update May 6, 2020
Week 5/ Class 5 of WORKOUT-WEDNESDAYS with ABT alum Lindsey Clayton CLICK HERE
Update May 5, 2020
Class 5 of TAP-A-LONG-TUESDAYS with Kurtis Overby CLICK HERE
Update May 4, 2020
Class 2/Craft2 of MAKERS-MONDAYS with ABT Prop Master MARY ROONEY (Recycles Items) CLICK HERE
Update May 2, 2020
Episode 6 “Tale As Old As Time” – Storybook Musicals of the “Quarantined” AFTER DARK CABARET (Recorded Fri, May 1) CLICK HERE
Episode 3 “EVERYTHING OCEAN” of STORYTIME-SATURDAYS with ABT’s MARY POPPINS CLICK HERE
Update May 1, 2020
Episode 4 “Director’s Cut” of THROWBACK-THURSDAYS with Directors Danny Gorman (Hands On A Hard Body, Bridges of Madison County, Titanic and The Addams Family) & Clayton Phillips (The Producers, Funny Girl, Beauty and The Beast, Mary Poppins and La Cage aux Folles) CLICK HERE
Update April 28, 2020
Announcing all-new MAKERS-MONDAYS with ABT’s Prop Master Mary Rooney (every Monday at 3pm AZ MST).
Looking to fill some down time? Need a craft project for the kids? ABT’s Prop Master Mary Rooney has some easy at home crafts that will give you (or the kids) a little something to do, and maybe even spark the “maker” in you!
While Mary has always been a crafty person, it goes without saying she is truly a “Master of her Craft.” For much of the past 15 years, she has been building, making and creating the props for ABT’s Mainstage productions. From everyday chotchky that makes a home feel like a home to specific esthetics and items that can define a certain period in history, it’s Mary’s keen eye for detail and incredible talent that has brought the ABT stage to life.
Class 1/Craft 1 (Magic Wands) CLICK HERE
Update April 25, 2020
Episode 5 “Quarantined” AFTER DARK CABARET – Musical Theatre Classics! (Recorded LIVE Friday, April 24) CLICK HERE
Episode 2: STORYTIME-SATURDAYS with ABT’s MARY POPPINS (Outer Space) CLICK HERE
Update April 15, 2020
All-new storytime series to air weekly on Saturdays at 10AM MST on the theatre’s Facebook page. Episode 1 will air Saturday, April 18.
STORYTIME-SATURDAYS with ABT’s MARY POPPINS is a 30-minute storytime led by ABT alum Renee Koher. Renee played Mary Poppins in ABT’s 2018 production of Disney’s Mary Poppins.
“Of all the characters I’ve ever played, Mary Poppins holds a dear place in my heart,” said Renee. “Mary is a character who emulates care, concern, but most of all love. I’m excited to bring a little piece of her to the kids each Saturday morning!”
Each week’s storytime will have a specific theme and include the reading of two children’s books, learning opportunities and a simple craft project. Renee will be joined weekly by other “special guests.” Viewers can leave comments or questions for Renee in the post’s comment section.
“We know people are looking for online content; especially Moms and Dads with kids at home not able to go to school or attend daycare,” said Brad York, Director of Marketing & Development.” Who better than Mary Poppins to bring a little joy (and good manners) to kids who are stuck at home during this time. Renee is such a pro and we’re so happy to be able to provide something educational and fun to our family community.”
STORYTIME-SATURDAYS with ABT’s MARY POPPINS has been created as part of the theatre’s continued commitment to serve its community during these difficult times. ABT needs the communities support more than ever before. Please consider donating to the ABT RELIEF FUND to help assure ABT can begin the journey forward after this current crisis. Donate today at: https://bit.ly/DonateABTReliefFund
Update April 6, 2020
ABT has launched an all-new “online” virtual Bootcamp as part of its HyRev program (Youth Performance Troupe).
Led by HyRev instructors Mark & Lynzee Foreman, the HyRev Bootcamp is a high-octane 90-minute virtual online class session that will help kids stay in shape during this time of “self quarantine” and “shelter-in-place” orders.
Each virtual session will begin with a warm-up (both physically and vocally) followed by musical instruction and intense choreography. At the end of each session, both pieces (music and choreography) will be combined to create a full-out performance. Following the session and throughout the coming week, each student can submit their performance via email to the instructors for notes and critiques – all part of helping participants become the best performers they can be!
“Kids are looking for things to do, and this can be a great outlet – both physically and emotionally. Anyone can participate, and this might just be the perfect opportunity to ‘give-it-a-shot!’ The Bootcamps are a safe environment where kids can learn and work at their own pace. More than anything, we want kids to feel like they have something fun to look forward to each week.” Lynzee Foreman, Instructor
WHO: All performers ages 10-19 are welcome (do not need to be a current member of the HyRev program to participate).
WHERE: Online (via Zoom*).
WHEN: Saturdays at 2pm (AZ MST).
WHY: HyRev Bootcamps will focus on all aspects of maintaining the performance skills needed to become a true “triple threat” performer (singer, actor, dancer).
COST: $10 per session.
REGISTRATION: Please contact Lynzee & Mark Foreman at LJP4man@gmail.com. Please provide participants name, age, email address along with parent/guardian name and parent/guardian email address.
PAYMENT: Once registered, payments can be made through Venmo or Zelle. These apps can be found via the app store on all mobile devices. Once payment is received, participants will receive an email notification and invitation to join the scheduled Zoom Bootcamp (the Zoom app is also available through the app store).
Started in 2018, HyRev is specifically for young performers ages 10-19 some previous music theatre/dance/show choir experience. The program includes two performance troupes: HyperToneZ (advanced troupe) and Sonic Revolution (elite troupe) – both build upon and improve participants’ performance strengths and include Valley-wide performances (with future out-of-area performances as time and scheduling allow). For more information, visit: https://azbroadway.org/hyrev.
*Zoom is the leader in modern enterprise video communications, with an easy, reliable cloud platform for video and audio conferencing, collaboration, chat, and webinars across mobile devices, desktops, telephones, and room systems. Download Zoom online or in the app store
Update April 3, 2020
ABT kicks Mask Relief Effort into high-gear as national and local authorities call for all Americans to consider wearing a protective mask (or other covering) to protect against the spread of COVID-19.
Since launching its Mask Relief Effort on March 24, ABT Costume Shop staff and volunteer community members have built and mailed-out close to 300 masks to healthcare facilities in New Jersey, Oregon and Colorado. The Mask Relief team also fulfiledl mask requests for distribution by the National Guard to the Navajo Nation in NE Arizona.
“Thank you for the wonderful masks for the Navajo Nation as we, the Army National Guard, push forward to supply this community with much needed masks. We are so grateful for your generous donation of masks and I know the Navajo are too. From the bottom of our hearts we honor and thank you.”
Lieutenant Coronal Joann Cole Shoffner, Army National Guard
ABT has called upon all sewers and crafters within the community to assist and organize a volunteer effort to provide aid for the immediate need for non-N95 tested medical face masks – both locally and nationally*.
“The response from our community has been incredible,” said Lottie Dixon, ABT’s Costume Director and the lead for the theatre’s Mask Relief Effort. “From the donation of yards of fabric to people asking for mask kits, which they can assemble within their own homes – it’s been incredible to see our community pitch-in to support this cause. I’m so thankful!”
As the call for more masks continues to increase, here are ways the community can continue to help:
1) DONATE MATERIALS: the theatre is in need of ¼ inch, ⅛ inch or round elastic, and lightweight cotton or cotton/poly blend fabric. Materials can be dropped-off at ABT’s main entrance at: 7701 W Paradise Ln. in Peoria (place at foot of front doors – staff will collect)
3) GET AN ASSEMBLY KIT (to be sewn by others): the theatre is putting together individual mask assembly kits, which can be sewn by others at home. For information on getting an assembly kit contact
lottie@azbroadway.org. General inquiries can be directed to
info@azbroadway.org.
*While masks from this program will not go to the front-lines, it is ABT’s hope that the masks will provide an opportunity to conserve and ration the medical grade PPEs by offering a replacement option when N95 grade mask needs are not warranted
Update March 31, 2020
Episode II of “Quarantine” Virtual After Dark Cabaret set for Friday, April 3, 2020 at 7:30pm (AZ MST)
Due to the overwhelmingly positive response, our Virtual After Dark Cabaret Series will return again this Friday, April 3 at 7:30pm (AZ MST) LIVE on the ABT Facebook page (@ArizonaBroadway) with Episode II
WHEN: FRIDAY, APRIL 3 @ 7:30pm (AZ MST)
WHERE: LIVE on ABT’s Facebook page (@ArizonaBroadway)
Grab yourself a drink, find a comfy spot and join host Kurtis Overby and a few ABT alums – direct from across the country and the comforts of their own living rooms – performing some of their favorite musical theatre selections!
We understand some of you had difficulty finding the Cabaret on our Facebook page this past Friday. We’re sorry for any confusion. Please see the instructions below. We hope this helps clarify exactly “where” you should look.
Important instructions for viewing the Cabaret:
- Go to the ABT Facebook page (@ArizonaBroadway) on Friday, April 3 at 7:30pm (AZ MST)
- When you arrive on the page SCROLL DOWN to the TOP of the POST(news) FEED. You’ll see an image (likely Kurtis) with a play button (>) and “Zoom” in the bottom right hand corner of the image
- Press the play button (>)
- The Cabaret will begin playing in session
- Do not return to the original March 31 EPISODE II Virtual After Dark Cabaret post on the ABT Facebook page to view the Cabaret. You will not find it
- Do not go to the EPISODE II Virtual After Dark Cabaret Event Page to view the Cabaret. You will not find it
- Again, it will be the most recent and latest post at the top of our POSTS (news) Feed
Update March 23, 2020
ABT LAUNCHES MASK RELIEF EFFORT
ABT COMMUNITY – Calling all sewers and crafters! WE NEED YOU!
We are organizing a volunteer effort to provide aid for the immediate need of face masks for our healthcare workers – both locally and nationally. We have been in contact with a number of healthcare organizations directly in Washington, Colorado, New York and right here in Arizona that need our support.
The ABT Costume Shop, led by Costume Director & Resident Designer Lottie Dixon, will lead the charge by organizing this project.
We might not be able to produce theatre right now, but this we can do. During this dark time at the theatre we can bring some help to those on the front-line. ABT CAN HELP!
WAYS YOU CAN HELP:
1) Donate materials: we’re in need of ¼ inch, ⅛ inch or round elastic, and lightweight cotton or cotton/poly blend fabric. Please drop at the main entrance of the theatre at 7701 W Paradise Ln. in Peoria (please place at front doors)
2) Use your own materials: sew from home following the guidelines found here: https://www.deaconess.com/How-to-make-a…/Documents-Mask/Mask. Video instructions: https://youtu.be/9tBg0Os5FWQ
3) Assemble Kits (to be sewn by others): please contact Lottie at lottie@azbroadway.org to arrange pick-up of supplies and instructions
Please return all assembled masks and kits to Arizona Broadway Theatre for distribution.
Thank you for your continued support of ABT. We look forward to working with you on this important project.
Sincerely,
ABT Executive & Artistic Producers, Kiel & Cassandra Klaphake and the entire Arizona Broadway Theatre Team
Update March 19, 2020
To our ABT Family near and far,
As many of you know, in response to the most recent recommendation from the CDC and Arizona Governor Ducey’s office to restrict public gatherings of 10 or more, this past Monday we announced the cancellation and postponement of all current programming at ABT through March 31. This included all concerts, Sunday Brunch at The ENCORE, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and Chicago
Despite our best intentions, it is with a heavy heart I must announce that effective immediately all ABT programming is on an indefinite hold until which time we are able to confidently chart a course forward toward a new horizon following the current COVID-19 Pandemic.
Today at noon, I announced to the cast of Chicago that the current run has been postponed indefinitely; however, I also let them know it will be the very first show to make a triumphant return to ABT’s Mainstage when we emerge renewed from this current swell of uncertainty.
If you hold tickets to Chicago, there is no action needed. When new Chicago run dates are announced you will be contacted by a Patron Services Associate to reschedule. Because of reduced staffing, please do not call the Box Office. We will reach out to you. Thank you!
If you are unable to attend the rescheduled run of Chicago for any reason, we ask that you choose to donate the value of your canceled tickets to ABT. Your donation is vital in helping us weather these uncharted waters. To donate the value of your tickets, please email our Box Office at tickets@azbroadway.org.
The enormity of the impact on our present, and future remains unknown. Many of you have asked, “What can I do to help?” Thank you for asking! Here are three immediate actions you can take to shore-up ABT’s foundation as we plan for the future:
1) If you are a current ABT “Broadway Series” 4-7 Flex subscriber, please renew your subscription today. Your renewal forms were sent out via US Mail on Wednesday, March 18. You can return your renewal forms the following ways:
- Email – please scan and email your renewal form to tickets@azbroadway.org
- FAX – please fax your renewal form to (623) 776-9974
- US MAIL – please mail your renewal form to 7701 W Paradise Ln. Peoria, AZ 85382
We are looking ahead to the next season and very excited to bring a whole new season of shows to the stage. By subscribing today, you are lending your support to our future – early – by helping stabilize our revenue – today.
2) Buy an ABT Gift Card online. Buying a Gift Card for yourself or someone you love is a great way of showing your support for the future of ABT. Of course, you can use your Gift Card for any future show, or subscription. Buy online today at https://tickets.azbroadwaytheatre.com/TheatreManager/1/login?pass=0
3) Make a tax deductible donation in any amount today. By choosing to make a donation you are assuring that when this ends, and it will, ABT will be ready and able to provide the community with the quality productions and engagement you have come to expect over the past 15 years. Please make a donation today at https://tickets.azbroadwaytheatre.com/TheatreManager/1/login?donation=0
Over this past week, I have been humbled, and at times left breathless, by the outpouring of support and encouragement from our extended community of patrons, donors, alumni and friends both locally and from across the country. In moments where I have struggled to find words, your words and expressions of understanding and commitment have lifted me up. I can not thank you enough – but Thank You!
Once we know more, you will be the first to know. I ask for your continued patience and understanding over the coming weeks. We are in this together, and we will get through this together.
As always, I look forward to seeing you at the theatre again soon. Be safe and stay healthy.
Kiel Klaphake
Executive Producer/CEO
Arizona Broadway Theatre
Update March 18, 2020
We understand this is an uncertain time and ask for your patience as we continue to work through the constant motion and information flow of the current environment.
Regarding tickets for productions or concerts that have been canceled or postponed:
As a not-for-profit arts organization, the coming weeks and months will be the most challenging we’ve faced in our 15-year history (perhaps even greater than the financial crash of 2008). Because of this, we ask that you consider donating the value of your canceled tickets to ABT. Your donation is vital to our future as we see our way through this unprecedented time. To donate the value of your tickets, please email our Box Office at tickets@azbroadway.org.
If not making a donation there is no need to contact the Box Office. Your tickets will be automatically released, and a credit will go onto your account. This credit will never expire and can be applied to a future performance.
Regarding tickets to Chicago:
If you have tickets to Chicago, your patience is requested. A Patron’s Services Associate will be in touch to discuss rescheduling options. Due to reduced staffing, please let us reach out to you. Thank you
We ask for your understanding, but most importantly, your support as we navigate these uncharted waters.
Dear Arizona Broadway Theatre family,
After much conversation, consideration, and deliberation, at this time we find it most important to heed the recent recommendation from Governor Ducey’s office to protect the health and safety of our patrons, employees, and our community during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Effective immediately we are implementing the following changes to our current schedule:
Chicago – On hiatus through Tuesday, March 31 (new dates into May TBA)
La Cage aux Folles at Herberger Theater Center – Cancelled
Mirage: Visions of Fleetwood Mac – ABT Concert Series – Monday, March 16 – Cancelled
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee – Postponed (future dates TBA)
Moody Blues – Go Now! – ABT Concert Series – Monday, March 23 – Cancelled
After Dark Cabaret – Friday, March 27 – Cancelled
Sunday Brunch at the Encore – Sunday, March 29 – Cancelled
Piano Men – Generations – ABT Concert Series – Monday, March 30 – Cancelled
We will continue to assess the fluidity of COVID-19 in our community and address the next steps on a day-to-day basis. ABT and Herberger Theater Center Box Offices will be in contact with patrons in the coming days to address cancellations and rescheduling.
This was a very difficult decision: weighing the importance of public health as a top priority, our financial viability, and the loyalty and commitment we feel toward our staff and patrons has been, quite simply, agonizing. While we’ve received several requests to halt all public performance, the overwhelming outpouring via phone, email, on our social platforms and at the Box Office has been to weather the storm and to stay open. Unfortunately, that is not possible at this time.
As a not-for-profit arts organization, the coming weeks and months will be the most challenging we’ve faced in our 15-year history (perhaps even greater than the financial crash of 2008). Because of this, we ask that you consider donating the cost of any canceled performance to ABT. Your donation is vital to our future as we see our way through this unprecedented time. To donate the value of your tickets, please email our Box Office at tickets@azbroadway.org.
If not making a donation there is no need to contact the Box Office. Your tickets will be automatically released, and a credit will go onto your account. This credit will never expire and can be applied to a future production.
If you have tickets to Chicago or 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, please let us reach out to you to discuss rescheduling options.
We ask for your understanding, but most importantly, your support as we navigate these uncharted waters.
I wish you and yours good health in the weeks to come.
Sincerely,
Kiel Klaphake, Executive Producer
