Our 2017-2018 season has a lot of stories that have been shared both on stage and on screen. Many people think that seeing the movie version is the same as watching a stage play, but the two offer understandings of the texts and themes that are worlds apart. Here are four reasons why we think that theatre offers an irreplaceable, captivating experience for audience members.

IT’S MORE INTIMATE. 

When it comes to a theatre production, you don’t need fancy special effects or computer-generated images. All you need is an actor, a few props, and the stage. What makes a story come alive at theatre performances is the way the characters develop and express their emotions. Whether it’s a sly smirk or a swift eye roll — it’s the little details in theatre performances that captivate the audience in an intimate and relatable way.

Beauty and The Beast (2016)

YOU NEVER GET THE SAME PERFORMANCE TWICE.

Unlike a movie that you’ve seen a million times, theatre productions have the element of unpredictability. There are a million things that could go wrong at a theatre production — missed cues, forgotten lines, costume malfunctions, and much more. But, as the saying goes, the show must go on! These slight changes and minor mishaps make the performance what it is — a vibrant experience that is unique to that particular audience.

Thoroughly Modern Millie (2017)

THERE’S A PERSONAL CONNECTION WITH THE AUDIENCE.

One of the best parts of live theatre performances is the personal connection between the audience and the actors. Stage performances have a certain way of bridging the gap between the performer and the viewer. When watching a live show, all the elements of the theatre — actors, sets, props, costumes, etc. — work together to bring audiences into that world. It makes the audience suspend their disbelief and feel like they’re actually stepping into someone else’s shoes instead of watching from the outside. It’s a magical experience.

The Philadelphia Story (2017)

THERE’S AN UNDENIABLE SENSE OF COMMUNITY.

Without community, there would be no theatre — especially at Civic Theatre where community members are not just part of the audience. Whether it’s on the stage or behind the scenes, the people who produce entertaining and engaging shows are all volunteers from our community. At Civic, stories have more meaning because they’re told by the people you know and love — and that’s what makes theatre so special.

Good People (2016)

DON’T MISS OUT ON THE MAGIC OF THEATRE.
COME SEE OUR 2017-18 SHOWS!

General Public TICKETS for all shows are
AVAILABLE AUGUST 23.