New Hampshire Magazine
Behind the Curtain: Winnipesaukee Playhouse
This Meredith theater works to create art that inspires, engages and entertains the people of their community and beyond
May 7, 2021
Summer is just around the corner, which means that summer theater is too. To help celebrate this season of sunshine, rising temperatures, barbecues and outdoor fun, we’re starting “Behind the Curtain,” a series of profiles introducing you to the many unique (and even historic) summer theaters around New Hampshire.
For our latest profile, check out Winnipesaukee Playhouse in Meredith. The Playhouse aims to provide a fun and challenging theatrical environment for all Lakes Region locals and visitors in both performance-based and educational arenas. Whether your interest is to be onstage, behind-the-scenes or in the audience, The Winnipesaukee Playhouse has something for you. We reached out to Patron and Company Services Director Lesley Pankhurst to learn all about their mission
Are you ready for ‘Bad Dates’? Portland Stage hopes so
The funny and relevant show opens Friday to limited live audiences.
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Director Jade King Carroll (standing) talks with actress Annie Henk and stage manager Myles Hatch during a rehearsal for “Bad Dates” at Portland Stage
Photo by Mical Hutson, courtesy of Portland Stage
For the first time in a year, theater director Jade King Carroll has been able to share physical space with an actor in preparation of a performance before an actual audience – and what a joy it has been for her to be able to talk face to face, to turn to a designer or stage manager to discuss details large and small, and simply get up from a chair and walk around the rehearsal room at Portland Stage.
Theater review: ‘Or,’ tells a condensed, comedic history of 17th century England
Three actors portray a wide range of characters in the Winnipesaukee Playhouse production, streaming through Portland Stage.
By Steve Feeney
Photos by No Umbrella Media LLC
Do you prefer plays that give you something to think about? Or are a few good laughs enough to draw you in? Portland Stage has imported a play that artfully balances serious and silly in a highly entertaining way.
THEATER REVIEW
REVIEWED: Streaming online (through Feb. 28)
TICKETS: $25 (discounts available)
The Winnipesaukee Playhouse production of the Liz Duffy Adams 2009 play “Or,” which was performed al fresco in Meredith, New Hampshire, last year, was “reconstructed” to fit Portland Stage’s indoor stage. A performance from a brief in-person run of the play in Portland is available to stream online through the end of the month.
T he toast might be virtual, the hugs on hold, but the sentiment is universal: Letâs ring in the new year and drop kick 2020 into the rear view mirror.
Things definitely arenât typical this New Yearâs Eve. The First Night celebrations in the streets, the big dance parties, the packed concerts in music halls â most are paused as we head into 2021. And plans donât just change from day to day but hour to hour.
Still, there are bright spots â retooled shows, some splashes of color and online celebrations with fun, games and a sense of community.