Summer Theater Returns to Rochester Opera House After 40 Years

Rochester Opera House used to present Broadway musicals all summer, in the 1960s and 1970s. However, due to economic reasons, the season had to shut down. Fosters.com has reported that this summer, theater shows are back at the Opera House for the first time in 40 years.

Two regional production companies will present revivals of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

"Back in the 1960s, the summer theatre shows at the Opera House were an important step to take before going on to other opportunities like national touring and even Broadway. ... Many performers had successful careers following their experiences at the Rochester Opera House," said actor Bob Monica.

In 1973, an economic downfall caused audiences to shrink and costs to rise, leaving the season with a $10,000 debt. Rochester Music Theater announced that it would take a year hiatus and then re-open, but it never did.

This summer's productions mark the first time this theater is going back to its roots.

"The Opera House was opened to the public on Memorial Day exactly 110 years ago. It's been more than 40 years since a theater show has taken place during the summer months. It's a revival, it's tradition, it's in our DNA." said Matt Wyatt, Rochester Opera House publicist.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat plays through July first and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum plays July 19-August 5.

Tickets are on sale now for the two plays online at www.rochesteroperahouse.com or call the box office (603) 335-1992.

The Rochester Opera House is located in City Hall, 31 Wakefield Street, Rochester. Visit www.RochesterOperaHouse.com for showtimes and more information.

Read more on Fosters.com.

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