Use this search box to find articles that have run in our newspapers over the last several years.
Date: 3/2/2022
WEST SPRINGFIELD — After closing for a brief time, the Majestic Theater reopened their doors to the public last week, with the premiere of “Blithe Spirit.”
Following the completion of their holiday show in December, Sue Dziura, associate producing director for Majestic Theater and director of “Blithe Spirit,” said the Elm Street theater shut down following an uptick in COVID-19 cases throughout the region.
The shutdown meant skipping a six-week showing of “Betty & the Patch.” That production will be rescheduled for sometime in June.
Although the theater was closed for roughly two months, Dziura said they made use of their time by making much needed improvements inside.
Danny Eaton, producing director for Majestic Theater, said, “We’ve installed all-new carpeting, stage lighting and sound equipment. New chairs have been ordered, and new HVAC systems are improving air quality throughout the theater and cafe.”
“This was something we were looking to do,” added Dziura, however the theater closing was “perfect timing” to make these upgrades.
On Feb. 7, the theater reopened for rehearsal of “Blithe Spirit.” Dziura called the production a “classic comedy” written by Noel Coward in 1937.
“If you take a theater class, you read ‘Blithe Spirit,’” she said.
Dziura said the most interesting thing about this play is that it was written by Coward as a response to his apartment being bombed in London during World War II.
“He went to the countryside in Wales and wrote this in a day and a half,” said Dziura. She believes that Coward created this comedy to “get away from a pervasive situation.”
Although Dziura thinks Eaton chose this play because it’s “fun” and full of “gorgeous language,” she said, “I think that for me, still being in the pandemic but living through the ups and downs … it resonates that he [Coward] wrote that play in a time to bring joy.”
She called it “a traditional drawing-room comedy” portraying British society, though she said it will be enjoyed by all.
Performances began Feb. 24 and will continue through April 3. Tickets are on sale in the box office at the Majestic, and may be purchased on the day of the performance or by calling 747-7797.
With 229 seats in the Majestic, the theater is open to full capacity, though audiences will notice some changes because of COVID-19.
All attendees are required to be vaccinated and need to show proof of vaccination at the door. They also need to wear masks throughout the entirety of the performance.
Although performers are not required to wear masks during the show, Dziura said they have “rigorous COVID protocols,” with monitors working to maintain crew safety. When performers are not on stage, they must be masked.
In addition, the cast and crew receive rapid testing three times a week, along with symptom monitoring.
“This has worked well for us,” said Dziura.
She said for the first time, they have started to employ understudies, who can take over the role if a cast member tests positive. These protocols have been put into place to ensure that the theater can remain open for its 24th season.
“We are excited to get back at it,” said Dziura.
Following “Blithe Spirit,” the season continues with “9 to 5,” a musical comedy that will run from April 14 through May 29. Original ticket holders for “Betty & the Patch” will be able to see the comedy-drama at a rescheduled date. For more information and show times, visit majestictheater.com.