MANSFIELD — The Renaissance Performing Arts Association will be postponing the official start of its 2020-21 season.
In previous years, the start of the season was highlighted by a summer Broadway musical production in July and August. For this season, the start will begin with the Park National Bank Broadway Series production of Cabaret, Oct. 2 through 11. Patrons who have already purchased tickets for affected events will have their tickets transferred to the postponement dates automatically; or, patrons can contact the Renaissance Box Office for exchange or refund options.
“While we had believed we would be in a position to open by now, we understand that the safety of our patrons, artists, volunteers, staff, and community always has to take precedence over our operations,” Renaissance President Chelsie Thompson said. “However, we have an extremely comprehensive plan for re-opening that will keep patrons safer than if they’re attending weddings or sporting events, or even just going to the grocery store or restaurants, and we’re excited and ready to welcome patrons back as soon as we’re able.”
The Renaissance is currently open with its Backlot Series of productions and films. The Ren Backlot Series is held outside in the Renaissance parking lot with areas for social distance seating and areas for patrons to remain in their cars.
Lind Media Company and sister company Lind SignSpring Group LLC generously donated the screen for the series, and the new Panasonic 8000 Lumen 3LCD digital projector generously donated by Rand and Mary Smith. Sound for the events will be provided by outdoor speakers and available on FM radio.
Upcoming events in the Ren Backlot include the Avita Innovation Concert Series productions of ‘Newsies: In Concert’ on Aug. 7 and 8, ‘You Can’t Stop the Beat: The Best of the Ren Broadway Series’ on Aug. 21 and 22, and Ain’t Misbehavin’ on Aug. 28 and 29.
The remaining films in the Lind Siegenthaler Cinema Series will be Muppet Treasure Island on Aug. 14 and Labyrinth on Sept. 4.
For the complete Renaissance 2020-21 Season, go to www.RenTickets.org. Single tickets and subscriptions are currently on sale. For the complete health and safety plan of the Renaissance, go to www.RenTickets.org/Covid19.
