With its roots in opera, theatregoing has always had a reputation for being a little... stuffy. Sure, there's color, music, and excitement onstage but it rarely translates to the customer experience before and after the show.
We want to change that.
"Broadway In The Park" is all about letting our personality show. Theatre is fun, and even a little weird. What patron wouldn't want to be part of an organization with an oddball sense of humor? Pshaw! Our mission is to lift guests out of the troubles of the world and help them relish in the joy and magic of the performing arts.
Things That Are Out of the Ordinary
The mayor doing impersonations onstage? Free candy every time you buy tickets? Improv comedy while you wait in line? Why not? These are some examples of out-of-the-ordinary extras that would make being part of this community fun. We want to take the patron experience beyond the what's expected and inject fun into the process.
Spreading the (sometimes silly) Word
We know that things are just easier to talk about when they're fun. That's why we want to give our brochures, websites, and promotional materials an enjoyable angle - something that makes people smile. Nobody wants to read a bunch of boring literature! Why not spice it up a little? The word shouldn't just be about us either. We want to invite our own customers to share their sense of humor and be a part of telling our story.
Food
Now we're talking. It's a scientific fact that 10 out of 10 doctors recommend food. For serious! Food not only nourishes the body, it makes people happy. We want to make our customers happy by making good food a part of the experience. Whether it's popcorn at the door, a gourmet dinner during the show, or some fresh pie on your way out, the path to happiness is most definitely on a plate and we're ready to serve it up.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Coming Attractions: Wednesday, Sep 23
Every week we feature upcoming (and ongoing) performing arts events in the South Bay. If you would like to see an event added, send an email to broadwayinthepark@gmail.com and we'll include it!-----KENTWOOD PLAYERS-----
THE TALE OF THE ALLERGIST'S WIFE September 11 – October 17 Westchester Playhouse (310) 645-5156 -----CIVIC LIGHT OPERA OF SOUTH BAY CITIES----- OKLAHOMA! September 16 – October 4 Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center (310) 372-4477 -----THE NORRIS THEATRE----- A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM The Norris Theatre 310-544-0403 -----MORGAN-WIXSON THEATRE----- THE LITTLE DOG LAUGHED September 19 – October 17 Morgan-Wixson Theatre (310) 828-7519 -----TORRANCE THEATRE COMPANY----- THE DIXIE SWIM CLUB September 25 – October 4 George Nakano Theatre (310) 781-7171
A comedy by Charles Busch
8301 Hindry Avenue
Westchester, CA 90045
http://www.kentwoodplayers.org
1935 Manhattan Beach Boulevard
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
http://www.civiclightopera.com
September 18-27
27570 Crossfield Drive
Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274
http://www.norristheatre.org
by Douglas Carter Beane
Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m.
2627 Pico Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90405
http://www.morgan-wixson.org
by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, & Jamie Wooten
3330 Civic Center Drive
Torrance, CA 90503
http://torrancetheatrecompany.com
Monday, September 21, 2009
Treat People Like Family
We all know "that family." A family whose house is always open to you, no matter the time or circumstance. For me it's the Giglio Family. Most of you who live in town probably know Vinny and Lee Ann and the way they welcome you with kisses and freshly cooked pasta. Whether you've known them for a lifetime or just a few minutes, you are immediately comforted by the hospitality they create. It's no wonder their house is always full of guests - it's hard for people to stay away from that kind of positivity.
"Broadway In The Park" may not be as good at kisses as Big Vin, but we can still strive to create the same comfort and welcoming atmosphere that make guests feel like they've "come home."
Build A Reputation For Being Nice
There's never an excuse for being rude or unsympathetic to patrons. Never! Our guests are the lifeblood of the organization and should be treated well. With too many companies projecting a negative (or even lukewarm) attitude, imagine what could be accomplished by being genuinely nice.
Go The Extra Mile
We want to do the extra things that make a difference. Getting to know our customers by name. Sharing the behind-the-scenes magic. Giving opportunities to local artists and helping them promote their talents. We want to take every opportunity to make our guests feel special.
Recognize the Real Stars
Onstage to off, there are countless volunteers and talented folks who help make shows successful. We want to make these individuals feel at home most of all. The reality of this labor-intensive business is that we do if for the love of the stage - there's never enough money to go around. By building a community of fun, respect, and constant "thank-yous" we can ensure our faithful participants come back time and time again.
"Broadway In The Park" may not be as good at kisses as Big Vin, but we can still strive to create the same comfort and welcoming atmosphere that make guests feel like they've "come home."
Build A Reputation For Being Nice
There's never an excuse for being rude or unsympathetic to patrons. Never! Our guests are the lifeblood of the organization and should be treated well. With too many companies projecting a negative (or even lukewarm) attitude, imagine what could be accomplished by being genuinely nice.
Go The Extra Mile
We want to do the extra things that make a difference. Getting to know our customers by name. Sharing the behind-the-scenes magic. Giving opportunities to local artists and helping them promote their talents. We want to take every opportunity to make our guests feel special.
Recognize the Real Stars
Onstage to off, there are countless volunteers and talented folks who help make shows successful. We want to make these individuals feel at home most of all. The reality of this labor-intensive business is that we do if for the love of the stage - there's never enough money to go around. By building a community of fun, respect, and constant "thank-yous" we can ensure our faithful participants come back time and time again.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Coming Attractions: Wednesday, Sep 16
Every week we feature upcoming (and ongoing) performing arts events in the South Bay. If you would like to see an event added, send an email to broadwayinthepark@gmail.com and we'll include it!-----LITTLE FISH THEATRE-----
WHAT THE BUTLER SAW
By Joe Orton
August 14 – September 19
Little Fish Theatre
777 Centre Street (at 8th)
San Pedro, CA 90731
-----KENTWOOD PLAYERS-----
THE TALE OF THE ALLERGIST'S WIFE September 11 – October 17 Westchester Playhouse (310) 645-5156 -----CIVIC LIGHT OPERA OF SOUTH BAY CITIES----- OKLAHOMA! September 16 – October 4 Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center (310) 372-4477 -----THE NORRIS THEATRE----- A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM The Norris Theatre 310-544-0403 -----MORGAN-WIXSON THEATRE----- THE LITTLE DOG LAUGHED September 19 – October 17, 2009 Morgan-Wixson Theatre (310) 828-7519
A comedy by Charles Busch
8301 Hindry Avenue
Westchester, CA 90045
http://www.kentwoodplayers.org
1935 Manhattan Beach Boulevard
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
http://www.civiclightopera.com
September 18-27
27570 Crossfield Drive
Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274
http://www.norristheatre.org
by Douglas Carter Beane
Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m.
2627 Pico Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90405
http://www.morgan-wixson.org
Monday, September 14, 2009
Building A True Community Theatre
If you know me, you know that I'm pretty jazzed about this concept. It's something that ES has been waiting for and with you guys on board, I know we can make it happen. But success doesn't just lie in the product... it has everything to do with the way we go about it. Enter: The Six Core Beliefs. These statements that I unveiled a few weeks ago are central to what "Broadway In The Park" is all about. It's the vision that will guide our brave little program to greatness.
Over the next few weeks I'm going to write a post on each of the six points individually to share my mindset with you. Today's focus is building a true community theatre:
Invite the Community to Help
I want this to be a community affair. Too many theatres are started by actors who are looking for an excuse to pick the plays they like and star in them. These companies are great for the participants but often leave the average arts lover out in the cold. The question is: what does El Segundo want to see in their park?
Seek Feedback Whenever Possible
Your opinion matters and we want to hear it. Sometimes you'll have a complement for us. Guess what? We love complements! *big surprise* But we also want to hear how we can make things better when you're not satisfied. This is your program. If you tell us, we will listen.
Help The Community (Even When It Doesn't Directly Benefit Us)
Most of all we want to be a part of El Segundo and the greater South Bay community. We will volunteer when we can. Maybe it's singing for seniors. Maybe it's cleaning up some graffiti. Whatever the task, we value being a part of the community even when it doesn't put money in our wallet.
What is your vision of a "true community theatre?" This is your company - what do you want to see on that stage?
Over the next few weeks I'm going to write a post on each of the six points individually to share my mindset with you. Today's focus is building a true community theatre:
Invite the Community to Help
I want this to be a community affair. Too many theatres are started by actors who are looking for an excuse to pick the plays they like and star in them. These companies are great for the participants but often leave the average arts lover out in the cold. The question is: what does El Segundo want to see in their park?
Seek Feedback Whenever Possible
Your opinion matters and we want to hear it. Sometimes you'll have a complement for us. Guess what? We love complements! *big surprise* But we also want to hear how we can make things better when you're not satisfied. This is your program. If you tell us, we will listen.
Help The Community (Even When It Doesn't Directly Benefit Us)
Most of all we want to be a part of El Segundo and the greater South Bay community. We will volunteer when we can. Maybe it's singing for seniors. Maybe it's cleaning up some graffiti. Whatever the task, we value being a part of the community even when it doesn't put money in our wallet.
What is your vision of a "true community theatre?" This is your company - what do you want to see on that stage?
Friday, September 11, 2009
The Pre-Show
Debuting good theatre in El Segundo is great. But this concept isn't just about Jeff putting on shows. Broadway In The Park is about community participation and togetherness. To this end, we will offer a unique opportunity for locals to show off their talents to the whole community. We call this program The Pre-Show.
Each evening will begin with a Pre-Show. About an hour before the start of the performance, a few community organizations will be featured doing whatever it is they do best. Everyone from local bands, to drama clubs, to quartets will have a chance to sign up and participate in this program. The Pre-Show slots will be free and available to anyone who wishes to participate - providing their talents help build "community spirit."
This program provides support to both our organization as well as the participants. Broadway In The Park benefits from the community support and word of mouth that comes from hosting local talent. Participating groups benefit from wide exposure to patrons, community leaders, and media outlets in showcasing their abilities. We also provide a platform for local groups to promote their upcoming concerts and performances.
But most of all, by providing a forum for community talent we strengthen the arts in the South Bay. It is vitally important that as public funding continues to diminish in support of the arts that local organizations take up the mantle of promoting this rich tradition. We are committed to giving our community the gift of the performing arts for years to come.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Coming Attractions: Wednesday, Sep 9
Every week we feature upcoming (and ongoing) performing arts events in the South Bay. If you would like to see an event added, send an email to broadwayinthepark@gmail.com and we'll include it!-----LITTLE FISH THEATRE-----
WHAT THE BUTLER SAW
By Joe Orton
August 14 – September 19
Little Fish Theatre
777 Centre Street (at 8th)
San Pedro, CA 90731
-----KENTWOOD PLAYERS-----
THE TALE OF THE ALLERGIST'S WIFE September 11 – October 17 Westchester Playhouse (310) 645-5156 -----OLD TOWN MUSIC HALL----- CRAZY RHYTHM HOT SOCIETY ORCHESTRA September 13 The Old Town Music Hall (310) 322-2592 -----CIVIC LIGHT OPERA OF SOUTH BAY CITIES----- OKLAHOMA! September 16 – October 4 Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center (310) 372-4477
A comedy by Charles Busch
8301 Hindry Avenue
Westchester, CA 90045
http://www.kentwoodplayers.org
Big Band music of 1920-1934
140 Richmond St.
El Segundo, CA 90245
http://otmh.org
1935 Manhattan Beach Boulevard
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
http://www.civiclightopera.com
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Speak Out!
Follow the link below and tell us what you'd like to see on The Moonlight Blog and we'll give you a free piece of candy!*
(*Free piece of candy may or may not be real)
Take the survey now!
(*Free piece of candy may or may not be real)
Take the survey now!
Monday, September 7, 2009
The Setting
Setting is a very important component of the Broadway In The Park vision. We want to present shows in an atmosphere that is reminiscent of small-town Americana. This setting will hearken back to a time when life was simpler - and when communities got together for no other reason than to celebrate a warm summer night.
Guests will be greeted by smartly dressed ushers in red vests who take their tickets with a smile. Strings of globe lights will hang between Victorian lampposts providing warm illumination for the festivities. The aroma of cotton candy and fresh-popped popcorn will entice guests inside, while local restaurants offer freshly made box dinners at a reasonable price. Guests can bring their own picnic dinners, of course, and can happily eat while they take in the evening's entertainment.
Broadway In The Park is a program that allows guests to bring their own chairs and sit wherever they like. The park will be divided into three main sections to accommodate different seats: a blanket section in the front, low-back chairs in the middle, and high-back chairs in the rear. All sections cost the same and offer great views. If guests forget their chair (or a warm blanket) they can rent one for a dollar or two. A fourth section will be added, right in the middle of the seating area, for Super Secret VIP's. Anyone can become one. For the higher fee, guests will receive complimentary beverage and dessert service throughout the night.
We believe that the setting is almost as important as the show. Broadway In The Park is about the community and we want to reinforce that by providing a comfortable and happy place where our guests can forget their troubles and relax under the stars.
Friday, September 4, 2009
What's The Buzz, Tell Me What's A Happening...
My vision for this blog includes providing a forum for the South Bay performing arts community to share info on what's happening in the area - and I need your help!If you know of local events or companies that you'd like to see featured on the blog (especially if you're in it!), please send info my way. Every Wednesday I'll post a summary of what's playing in the area. I'd like to eventually include reviews, behind-the-scenes articles, area audition info, and (of course) updates on Broadway In The Park as it takes shape.
Leave a comment or shoot me a message at broadwayinthepark@gmail.com and I'll share your info with the South Bay arts-loving community!
-Jeff
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Coming Attractions: Wednesday, Sep 2
Every week we feature upcoming (and ongoing) performing arts events in the South Bay. If you would like to see an event added, send an email to broadwayinthepark@gmail.com and we'll include it!-----LITTLE FISH THEATRE-----
WHAT THE BUTLER SAW
By Joe Orton
August 14 – September 19
Little Fish Theatre
777 Centre Street (at 8th)
San Pedro, CA 90731
(310) 512-6030
http://www.littlefishtheatre.org
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UNDERNEATH THE LINTEL
by Glen Berger
August 19 – September 3
(Wednesdays & Thursdays)
Little Fish Theatre
777 Centre Street (at 8th)
San Pedro, CA 90731
(310) 512-6030
http://www.littlefishtheatre.org
-----TORRANCE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER-----
Clarinet Concertos and Classical Choral Music
conducted by Choon W. Lim
September 4
James Armstrong Theatre
3330 Civic Center Drive
Torrance, CA 90503
(310) 781-7171