Community Corner

Transcendence Theatre Company Wins Award, Returns This Summer

The non-profit group will present 14 nights of entertainment again at Jack London State Historic Park.

Transcendence Theatre Company, producer of Broadway Under the Stars in Jack London State Park, has won the Broadway World San Francisco Award for Best Special Theater Event.

The non-profit company will return to the park for a second season this summer. In 2012, they donated more than $27,000 from their performances to help keep open the park, which had been slated for closure due to state budget constraints.

This summer's series dates are June 28 -Aug. 31. There will be four separate themed concerts, totaling 14 nights of performances, wine tasting and pre-event picnicking in the park in Glen Ellen.

Performers for the 2013 season have yet to be announced. The 2012 season featured Broadway performers from the casts of Mamma Mia, Les Miserables, Chicago, La Cage Aux Folles, Gypsy, Hairspray, Follies, White Christmas, Million Dollar Quartet, Mary Poppins and more. Transcendence Theatre Company also includes artists with experience in movies and television.

"We are thrilled to have them back," said Tjiska Van Wyk, Executive Director for the park. "Transcendence Theatre Company's Broadway Under the Stars performances last summer brought so many people to Jack London Park—some returning after not having been at the park for years, some coming for the first time."

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About 7,500 people attended the inaugural season's shows.

"The meadow and winery ruins were alive with community energy and excitement as we all gathered to enjoy these terrific shows and top notch performers," Van Wyk said. "The company's generosity matched the talent they shared with all of us, with the unbelievable support they offered by donating a portion of their ticket sales to Valley of the Moon Natural History Association and the Park."

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The park is operated by the history association.

"The success of these concerts will play a vital role in sustaining the threatened park for generations to come," executive director Stephan Stubbins said.

Stubbins has produced a new video with excerpts of last's season's performances, which can be seen on the company's website.

Here's the full line up of the season.

Fly Me To The Moon

June 28, 29, 30; July 5, 6

5pm Picnicking and Wine Begins
7:30pm Concert in the Open-Air Winery Ruins Begins

Join TTC under the stars as we journey through the uplifting, inspiring and carefree messages behind some of the greatest tunes of Broadway and the Great American Songbook. Inspired by the unique and brash optimism of the American musical, this show is all about soaring beyond the usual limits through music. Featuring songs from Broadway’s greatest composers- including Rodgers & Hammerstein, Stephan Sondheim, Cole Porter, Stephan Schwartz and more- this one is guaranteed to leave you shooting for the moon!

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Fantastical Family Night

July 19, 20 

5pm Picnicking, Family Activities and Wine Begin
7:30pm Concert in the Open-Air Winery Ruins Begins

“You’re off to Great Places! Today is your Day! Your mountain is waiting, So...get on your way!..”* and head straight to TTC’s Fantastical Family Night, our second volume of fun for the entire family! Saturated with Classic Broadway and Disney songs alike, this night of interactive entertainment will keep you wearing a smile from ear to ear. Featuring a special and exclusive performance by TTC’s Broadway Kids Camp, this one’s not to be missed!

*quote by Dr. Seuss

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Dancing Through Life

Aug. 9, 10, 15, 16, 17

5pm Picnicking and Wine Begins
7:30pm Concert in the Open-Air Winery Ruins Begins

“There are shortcuts to happiness, and dancing is one of them.” – Vicki Baum. Get your feet tapping with Dancing Through Life, a unique tribute to those show stopping chorus numbers that keep you humming along to the rhythm of life. Mixed with a genuine variety of both song and dance, this show will feature music from shows like Chicago, Crazy for You, A Chorus Line and more! If dancing is a shortcut to happiness, then come to the edge of your seat and prepare to soar!

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Gala Celebration Concert

Aug. 30, 31

5pm Picnicking and Wine Begins

7:30pm Concert in the Open-Air Winery Ruins Begins

Join us in wrapping up our season as we commemorate with our second annual Gala Celebration! A two-night-only weekend extravaganza and fundraiser, this show brings the community together for one last launch into the end of summer and the beginning of new dreams! Celebrate the community, life and all the magical moments of the season as we sing you to inspiration one last time! Featuring songs from Broadway and the Standard American Songbook, there’s no better way to bring the summer to a close! Get your tickets while they last!

Tickets cost $29-$125, with discounts on "early-bird" tickets purchased before May 1. Five dollars of every ticket sold will benefit Jack London State Park.

To learn more about the 2013 summer season and Transcendence Theatre Company, or to purchase tickets, visit www.BroadwayJackLondon.com or call (877) 424-1414.


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