YOU'RE INVITED TO "BEHIND THE CURTAIN AT OLD ACADEMY PLAYERS"

You are invited to Behind the Curtain at Old Academy Players, on Sunday, October 19, 2014 from 2 pm to 5pm.

Come learn how you can participate in the joy of theater at 3544 Indian Queen Lane in East Falls, the urban village on the Schuylkill River. This is a FREE event. Old Academy Players is proud to host Behind the Curtain and participate in East Falls Fall Festival sponsored by the East Falls Community Council [www.eastfallscommunity.org].

Upstairs: Come get a behind-the-scenes look at our historic theater.

We would like to introduce ourselves and our theater to you in a friendly and informal atmosphere. We’re always looking for new people to join us. Come explore our theater. Enjoy some refreshments and tell us what you like to do. We’ll match your skills and interests with the right volunteering opportunity.

Learn how you can get involved in all the fun! No experience is necessary. The fun includes but is not limited to: Box office & concessions, Set design & construction, Painting, Costuming, Ushering, Marketing/publicity, Event coordination, Group sales, Raffle sales, Acting, Directing, and so much more!

Downstairs: Watch a rehearsal in action in our cozy, intimate 100-seat theater!

As It Is In Heaven, Arlene Hutton’s fascinating Americana drama about the close-knit women of a seemingly utopian Shaker society in 1838 Kentucky, will be directed by Jane Jennings of Narberth and produced by Charlotte Higgins of East Falls. The play runs for three weekends from November 7-23.

As It Is In Heaven is a story of human nature and faith. The Shakers, the religious sect that flourished in 19th century America, were founded upon doctrines that forbade the private ownership of anything. Their worship consisted of ecstatic singing, dancing, and a ‘shaking’ type of movement. Membership required hard work, communal living, and strict celibacy. The last meant total dependence on recruitment since there were no born Shakers.

The story’s routine is upset when a newcomer arrives and claims to see angels and to be in contact with the long dead founder, Mother Lee. Conflicts arise as jealousy rears its ugly head. After all, it is human nature. Although not a musical, the play features a cappella singing of delightful authentic Shaker songs and hymns intertwined with movement connecting each scene. Laboring constantly these dedicated Shaker women strive to live their motto, “Hands to Work, Hearts to God.” As It Is In Heaven is produced by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc.

Located at 3544 Indian Queen Lane in East Falls, Old Academy Players has provided continuous community theater since 1923, and featured the acting debuts of both Grace Kelly and Robert Prosky. Parking is free. Call 215-843-1109. Or visit www.oldacademyplayers.org for more details.

Distinguished Member Carla Childs explains, “Community theater is true community. We help each other. It’s truly a collaborative effort.”

Distinguished Member Helga Krauss states, “Old Academy is our second family. We are very fond of each other. We enjoy each other, and we respect each other’s talents and gifts.”

Hope you can stop by and chat with Carla, Helga, and other members during Behind the Curtain at Old Academy Players!