THE WHO’S "TOMMY" OPENS THE SPOTLIGHTS THEATER'S NEW ADDITION WITH RIBBON-CUTTING ON JUNE 20, 2019 The Broadview Heights Spotlights Theater is proud to announce the opening of its new theater addition with the annual youth production, The Who’s Tommy. The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will take place at 6:00 PM on June 20th, just prior to the show. Mayor Sam Alai will join the theater Board of Trustees for this long-awaited opening ceremony. There will be an Hors D’oeuvres Reception sponsored by The Locker Room in the lobby immediately following the Ribbon Cutting. All are welcome to attend the ceremony and reception. Those wishing to purchase tickets to the show may do so by visiting the Spolights’ website: www.broadview-heights-spotlights.org. The theater addition has been a collaborative effort between the City and the Spotlights Theater. The building is 3200 square feet, has 12’ ceilings, and will have storage on both ends. It will be a “black-box” venue – the stage and seating will move to different locations within the building depending upon the needs of the show. The addition will be able to seat about 175 people, though most shows will require only 90-100. The existing theater will continue to be used for smaller productions requiring half that many seats. For inquiries about sponsorships, including naming rights, contact the Spotlights Vice President of Growth and Development, Ryan Bergeron at rbergeron@broadview-heights-spotlights.org ABOUT THE SHOW... The 2019 Broadview Heights Spotlights presents The Who’s Tommy. Based on the band’s iconic 1969 rock concept album, this musical is an exhilarating story of hope, healing, and the human spirit. The story of the pinball-playing, deaf, dumb and blind boy who triumphs over his adversities has inspired, amazed and puzzled audiences. The Who’s album celebrates its 50th anniversary in this year! The show contains themes and language that are recommended only for a mature audience. This show will be the first production in the Spotlights’ new 3200-square-foot performance space. The Spotlights’ cast of 19 talented teenagers stars Dylan Grosh-Hoy as the title character, Delia Brennan as Mrs. Walker, and James Newton as Captain Walker. The principal cast also features Nick Beiser (Cousin Kevin), Cole Tartantowski (Uncle Ernie), Zoe Douglas (Gypsy), and Molly Molina (Sally Simpson). The featured ensemble includes Abbey Brinkhoff, Clorise Busch, Nicholas DeAngelis, Josh Goodman, Lydia Greer, Mckenna Hassel, Olivia Krafcik, Celie Ostroski, Kassie Schill, Garret Travers, Luke Underation, and Alexa Warmuth. Spotlights’ Education Director Tim Anderson is directing his thirteenth Spotlights’ Youth Production. “The excitement in the first couple of rehearsals has been tangible. This is a ridiculously talented group of kids--a nice mix of returning veterans and eager newcomers. We’re going to do our best to christen the new space...and possibly blow its roof off!” says Anderson. He is once again collaborating with his longtime production team members, Ryan Bergeron (Music Director) and Maggie Majercik (Choreographer). Karen Johnston and Amy McSweeney serve as Producers. The show runs June 20 – 30, 2019. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday performances are at 7:00 p.m.; Sunday matinees begin at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $17 for adults and $14 for seniors and students. For the past several years, the Spotlights’ Summer Youth Productions have sold-out their entire runs before opening night. Reservations are strongly encouraged and must be made on-line at www.broadview-heights-spotlights.org.