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A Message from the Artistic Director
I first became involved with the Pennsylvania Theatre of Performing Art over 20 years ago when I was still in high school and the theatre was located at the former Grace United Church of Christ on Laurel Street. The theatre and PTPA space have been truly formative in my life, with the friends and memories I made at that time helping me in immeasurable ways during my young adulthood.
When I returned to community theatre in 2012 it was once again the PTPA that opened its doors and arms to me. The PTPA became a space for me to exercise artistic expression through performance and direction for which I am truly appreciative. Working with scores of talented people from northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond at the PTPA has been a continuous learning and teaching experience that I truly cherish.
As a member of the theatre’s board of directors since 2018, President of the board, and now Artistic Director, I hope to contribute to others finding the same supportive home at the PTPA as I have. In this most trying of times the theatre should continue to be a space that is both safe AND challenging. Safe for children and adults of all experience levels, races, ethnicities, and affinities to healthily express and be themselves through art and performance; but also challenging - continuing to grapple with big ideas, philosophical questions, and topical social issues so that we may grow as an inclusive, informed, and compassionate community.
Above all, it is my sincerest hope that this theatre continues to be a beacon for youth and young adults to develop their talents, skills, and personalities; and a place for the community to partake in quality entertainment that is both professional and homegrown. There is truly nothing else exactly like community theatre, in terms of what it offers to those both onstage and in the audience, and now more than ever we need its unique gifts in our lives.
- Adam Randis, PTPA Artistic Director
When I returned to community theatre in 2012 it was once again the PTPA that opened its doors and arms to me. The PTPA became a space for me to exercise artistic expression through performance and direction for which I am truly appreciative. Working with scores of talented people from northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond at the PTPA has been a continuous learning and teaching experience that I truly cherish.
As a member of the theatre’s board of directors since 2018, President of the board, and now Artistic Director, I hope to contribute to others finding the same supportive home at the PTPA as I have. In this most trying of times the theatre should continue to be a space that is both safe AND challenging. Safe for children and adults of all experience levels, races, ethnicities, and affinities to healthily express and be themselves through art and performance; but also challenging - continuing to grapple with big ideas, philosophical questions, and topical social issues so that we may grow as an inclusive, informed, and compassionate community.
Above all, it is my sincerest hope that this theatre continues to be a beacon for youth and young adults to develop their talents, skills, and personalities; and a place for the community to partake in quality entertainment that is both professional and homegrown. There is truly nothing else exactly like community theatre, in terms of what it offers to those both onstage and in the audience, and now more than ever we need its unique gifts in our lives.
- Adam Randis, PTPA Artistic Director
board of Directors
Executive Board:Christopher Snyder ................................President/General Manager
Bill Rigotti ..............................Vice President/Director of OperationsMichael Dougherty ...................................Treasurer/Finance DirectorJennifer Hoats ........................................Secretary/Office Coordinator
TR Laputka ...............................................In-House Technical Director
Board Members:
Shelby Wolfe .................Director of Marketing and Public Relations
Jane Dougherty ..............Director of Development and Fundraising
Sherri O'Donnell ...........................Community Outreach Coordinator
Jacquie Engel ......................................................Volunteer Coordinator
Joshua Plesce ......................................................NEPTA Representative
Yosara Gonzalez
Frank Seratch
Mary Pat Stroia
PTPA HISTORY
For over twenty five years, the Pennsylvania Theatre of Performing Arts has provided a venue for talented actors, musicians, and dancers to entertain local audiences. Our volunteer organization has mounted dozens of productions ranging from classic and contemporary Broadway musicals and plays to children's productions. We hope you will join us in our exciting 2020 season!
In 2006, the physical condition of our former facility on Laurel Street in Hazleton had deteriorated to the point that it became a significant drain to our financial and personal resources. As such, it was decided to sell the building and move on to greener pastures. We have been fortunate indeed to have found several venues in the area in which to perform our shows. The Strand in McAdoo and The Factory in Nuremberg have both lent their stages to our performers. We graciously thank the people involved with these facilities as they have welcomed us with open arms and open hearts.
In January of 2010, after 24 productions at the J.J. Ferrara Center, the PTPA became its proud new owner! With a new home and a renewed energy for the arts, you can be assured that the PTPA will continue to provide quality theatrical performances and remain as a much-needed cultural outlet for the talents of our community.
Please watch this site for updated notices of our future productions, auditions, and other activities. If you really want to experience the excitement of live theater come to our home at 212 West Broad Street in Hazleton and experience a PTPA production for yourself!
