The Scoop On The Piper Theater

Does anyone know what a repertory theater is? A repertory theater, also known as a “rep”, is a theater in which a resident company presents works from a specified repertoire, usually in alternation or rotation, usually about once every week. However, times have changed and the practice of a new play every week and a week’s rehearsal doesn’t happen. Today the practice of “rep” is more likely to be seen in large cities in the manner applied by such well-known established companies.

Did you know that here at MAC we have our very own repertory theater? The Virginia G. Piper trust repertory theater is the second largest theater here at MAC. Reflecting Virginia G. Piper’s love of theater and the arts, the trustees of the Virginia G. Piper Trust awarded Mesa Arts Center a gift that names the 550 seat theater.

I recently toured the Piper Theater. It was very beautiful and charming. It may not be the largest theater at MAC (that would be the Ikeda Theater with seating for 1,588 people), but the Piper can still hold a large number of people while keeping its unique, cozy atmosphere.

We have a number of awesome live shows in the Piper Theater this season! If you’re interested in experiencing the intimate relationship the Piper provides between the audience and performers, here are a few that are coming up fast.

-The Grascals on September 30th (7:00 p.m.) $28

The Grascals are one of the most adored and acclaimed bands on today’s bluegrass scene. Having won many awards, The Grascals signify a profound grasp of and expertise with country and bluegrass tradition, exposing new audiences to that distinctive “BluGrascals” sound.

-Choo-Choo Soul on October 8th (11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.) $25

Sing along with beatbox artist “DC” and musician “Genevieve Goings,” as they drive their train through fantastical lands to the sounds of contemporary, kid-friendly, hip-hop songs. These Disney Junior performers captured the 2007 Parents’ Choice Award for Children’s Television, and they are sure to capture your child’s heart. All aboard!

-The Miles Davis Experience October 14th (7:30 p.m.) $35/$45

Follow the music of Miles Davis, one of the most prominent leaders in jazz, to recapture the period, song, cultural, and historical context of post-war America through a jazz lens. This experience allows a younger audience, some that are not so lucky as to have seen him in his time, become familiar with his legacy.

For more information about shows in any of our four theaters, contact the Mesa Arts Center Box Office at 480-644-6500 or visit www.mesaartscenter.com.

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the next “3 for FREE!” This is the fourth year that Target presents “3 for FREE.” On the first Sunday in October, November, and December, from noon to 5:00 p.m., you can visit the Arizona Museum of Natural History, Arizona Museum for Youth and our Mesa Contemporary Arts for free. I can’t wait to share what the Mesa Contemporary Arts has in store for you!

-Tara Kerege

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