Statement of Impact due to Public Health Crisis
Because it feels like she said it best we are borrowing the sentiments of Mandy Greenfield the artistic director of the
Williamstown Theatre Festival
“Anyone who makes theatre and everyone who makes going to the theatre a central endeavor to their lives shares one unspoken truth: we believe in humanity. We believe that in the dark, among a large group of people breathing the same air, a theatrical experience can elevate, entertain, transport, reveal, unmask, even transform us. This shared truth has been cherished and practiced for all of human history: we share roots with our theatrical ancestors and branches with generations of theatrical storytellers to come. We are all guessing about the immediate future right now—will it be safe to commune in large groups this summer, to share the same air in the theatre, […] everywhere, all over the planet?
We don’t know. But, as we are all still theatre makers and theatre lovers, we must hold onto our shared belief in humanity. Today, we are all working to flatten the curve, to slow the spread of a virus in order to save lives and buy time for the development and dissemination of a vaccine or cure or both. I, alongside almost everyone I talk or email or zoom with daily, believe we will succeed. We believe in humanity. When we can, once again, come together in large groups, breathe the same air, and raise a majestic curtain on the ancient art we cherish, we will see you at the theatre. I am betting on humanity and I am certain we will arrive there together, ahead.” Mandy Greenfield
In October of 2020 the WUP Board reviewed the most current information related to the pandemic and the long-range projections on when groups will be allowed to meet indoors. Based on that discussion a decision was made that no productions will be planned until 2022. Until then, we will use this time to plan and prepare the best possible theatre experience for our loyal audience members. Rest assured that we will be back. For now, we are waiting in the wings for our cue to take the stage again. So please, watch our website and our Facebook page for new information.
And from us, an update…
In March we were just preparing to begin rehearsals of our musical production of JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH with a wonderfully talented cast lined up. But this was not to be. After thoughtful consideration the Board of the Wilbraham United Players (WUP) has decided to postpone the remainder of our season. Our planned for production of JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH will still move forward as the single production of a short season in the Spring of 2021. Given the requirements for rehearsal lead time prior to a production of this type, to plan for a production in either the summer or fall of 2020 felt precipitate and unwise. As soon as we have had a chance to regroup with our cast, our vendors and support team, a new production date will be announced! WUP will continue to bring theatre to our audiences and give a home to our fellow community theatre actors and artists. A complete season will be planned for 2021- 2022 as we hope for the world at large to return to normal. Watch for new information on our Facebook Page and our website – www.wilbrahamunitedplayers.org. On behalf of the WUP Board, our dedicated volunteers who support our endeavors, the cast and production crew of “Peach” thank you for standing with us in the support of live theatre. We will see you soon!
The Board of the Wilbraham United Players