“This anniversary marks the Atlanta Lyric Theatre’s continued commitment to artistic excellence and educational programming,” said Brandt Blocker, artistic director and general manager of Atlanta Lyric Theatre. “As we look forward to a great 2009-2010 season and the next 30 years, our promise to Atlanta is to showcase the best in local professional talent and expand the musical theatre audience in the greater Atlanta area.”
Founded in 1980, the Atlanta Lyric Theatre is Atlanta’s only local professional musical theater company. After performing in several Atlanta venues, the company partnered with Friends of the Strand in 2008 and relocated permanently to the Earl Smith Strand Theatre, a historic landmark on Marietta Square. The Atlanta Lyric Theatre’s event will be part of the larger commencement of Marietta’s 175th anniversary.
“As Co-Chair of the 175th Anniversary Celebration of the city of Marietta, I think it is great to be able to celebrate 175 years of Marietta and 30 years of the Atlanta Lyric Theatre,” said Earl Reece, Executive Director of The Earl Smith Strand Theatre. “It has been a pleasure working with the Atlanta Lyric Theatre, and we have sincerely developed a family relationship. We look forward to celebrating many future anniversaries of the Atlanta Lyric Theatre at the Strand Theatre.”
The silent auction begins at 6 p.m., with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres provided by local vendors Carriage House Catering, Gabriel’s Desserts, Sugar Cakes, and Shilling’s on the Square. Funds will go to aiding the Atlanta Lyric Theatre in its mission to produce the best in musical theatre in Atlanta and foster the growth of the Atlanta theatre community.
Dan Britt, former executive director of the Atlanta Lyric Theatre and player in several of its past productions, takes the stage at 7 p.m. Britt has an extensive operatic background, including a two year national tour with the National Opera Company. He has been seen on many notable stages including The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C. Britt will be accompanied by the Atlanta Lyric Theatre Combo. An after-party will follow at the Terrace overlooking Marietta Square.
For reservations to the celebratory event that will be held at the Earl Strand Theatre at 117 North Park Square, Marietta, Georgia, call (404) 377-9948 or visit www.atlantalyrictheatre.com. A donation of $30, in honor of 30 years, is requested.
