We understand it’s next to impossible to see every theater production in the state. You’d likely need to have a lot of free time and a teleporter for that, which if we’re not mistaken doesn’t actually exist.
But here’s the next best thing: The annual N.H. Theatre Awards. That’s right, the best productions, performances and behind-the-scenes folks will be celebrated under one roof this Saturday at the Capitol Center for the Arts, starting at 7 p.m. This is the 15th year of the awards night and second consecutive held in our state capital.
“It’s a good show, entertaining and enlightening, and you’ll learn how important theater is as a connection between people,” said Rick Broussard, co-founder of the awards night.
Winners will be announced for best productions, directors, actors and actresses, supporting actors and actresses, directors, musical directors and choreographers, as well as costume, scenic, lighting and sound directors – in the professional, community and youth ranks.
“Every little town has a theater group,” Broussard said. “So it’s like a gathering of the tribes.”
The Community Players of Concord, as well as RB Productions (a local youth group), are up for many awards.
And while that’s a pretty big deal to those involved, since most don’t get a whole lot of recognition outside their own theater groups and some local press, there’s a whole lot more that goes into this night.
This is one that has red carpet appeal written all over it, which is good since this is actually a red-carpet event, so feel free to get all dressed up.
In addition to the drama that comes with announcing the winners from lists of five to 10 finalists, a select group of theater groups will perform a selection/song from their productions. and one of them just so happens to be our very own Community Players of Concord, doing a number from Once On This Island. Other performances include: Majestic Theatre, Spitfire Grill; Winnipesaukee Playhouse, Carrie: The Musical; Peacock Players, Aida; Amherst PTA, Shrek; and Actorsingers, Rock of Ages.
The performances will be dispersed throughout the night, breaking up all the acceptance speeches that will surely be filled with lots of thank-yous and a few tears.
“The most interesting and fun part is watching people receive their awards,” Broussard said.
There will also be an ensemble piece to kick off the show, featuring performers from all over the state.
“They’re doing some really clever stuff. Sometimes it’s the best part of the night,” Broussard said.
A special tribute will be made to Van McLeod, The longtime commissioner of the state Department of Cultural Resources who passed away in July, while his wife and daughter will present the lifetime achievement award to Rob Koch.
Hatbox Theatre creator Andrew Pinard will be honored with the Vision and Tenacity Award for his work to create the performance space at Steeplegate Mall.
“If you’ve never been, you really owe it to yourself to go,” Broussard said.
Tickets range from $32.50-$50 and can be purchased at ccanh.com/ events/15th-annual-nh-theatre-awards.
There’s also an after party (which requires a separate ticket) beginning at 10 p.m. complete with a cash bar and hors d’oeuvres.
For a complete list of all the finalists, check out online.flipbuilder.com/ xknk/mjzy/#p=1
Visit facebook.com/ NHTheatreAwards for more info on hosts and after party deatails.
