Live theater to return to Providence

Providence Performing Arts Center in downtown Providence. Photo by Steve Klamkin WPRO News

By Steve Klamkin WPRO News

The Providence Performing Arts Center announced its 2021 – 2022 season on Tuesday, planning to reopen in October with safety protocols to deal with the coronavirus pandemic that forced the shutdown more than a year ago, along with all other live events, raising hopes for a revival in downtown Providence.

“We have come through an incredible year,” said Joseph Walsh, Chairman of the PPAC Board of Directors. “But today we are pleased and excited to announce the reopening and next year’s season at PPAC.”

The theater reopens with “Pretty Woman: The Musical” October 9-16, followed by “Hamilton”, November 30 to December 12.

Fourteen other shows were announced, including two that were postponed from the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, “Jesus Christ Superstar” and “Dear Evan Hansen”.

The theater has taken extensive steps to ensure patrons’ safety, including installation of an advanced air filtration system, said PPAC President and CEO J.L. “Lynn” Singleton.

“It’s like even coming downtown, people need to feel safe. If they don’t feel safe, they’re not coming. If they come to this theater, they need to feel safe, they need to feel that we’re on it, and believe me, we’re on it,” Singleton said.

 

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