slides: The Hanover Theatre’s Best Shows of the Last Five Years

Friday, January 25, 2013

Jeffrey Starr, GoLocalWorcester Contributor

The acclaimed Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts of is one of the great gems of Worcester's vibrant cultural community. Since its renovation and re-opening in 2008, it has hosted performances of some of the world's most famous plays, musicians, comedians, poets, and more. The theatre is celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, and GoLocal took a look back at the biggest shows at the Hanover in the last five years.

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Bernadette Peters

March 14, 2008

This Tony Award-winning actress and singer of Broadway fame was the very first performer at the grand opening of the Hanover. In attendance were Lt. Governor Tim Murray, Worcester City Manager Michael V. O'Brien, and former Worcester mayor Jordan Levy.

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George Carlin

May 1, 2008

The controversial but legendary veteran of stand-up brought the laughs to the Hanover with his sharp political and social satire. It was one of the last performances of his storied career before his death just over a month later.

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B.B. King

May 16, 2008 (Returning: April 13, 2013)

Arguably the greatest blues musician of all time, B.B. King is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame. He has received countless awards, including 14 Grammies and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The musician was celebrating his 60th anniversary in show biz alongside Ernie and the Automatics, featuring James Montgomery.

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A Christmas Carol

Every Holiday Season

The Hanover Theatre’s annual production of "A Christmas Carol," adapted and directed by The Hanover Theatre’s Executive Director, Troy Siebels, has quickly become a holiday tradition, warming the hearts of many throughout Worcester County with its Broadway style. Since its debut on December 19, 2008, the production has been known as New England’s largest production of the Charles Dickens’ classic and is accompanied by music from the Mighty Wurlitzer, the largest theatre organ in New England.

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Miranda Lambert

November 19, 2009

The young, popular singer played her unique brand of country pop for her adoring fans at the Hanover. The national tour featured guest Josh Thompson.

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Neil Young

May 21, 2010

One of the all-time great artists of rock and roll brought his versatile blend of folk and country rock to the Hanover. He highlighted fan favorites and performed previously unreleased material with special guest Bert Jansch.

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Steve Martin

March 29, 2011

Steve Martin made an exclusive appearance, the first U.S. experience of its kind, in “A Conversation with Steve Martin” moderated by former WBZ entertainment reporter, Joyce Kulhawik. Audience members had the opportunity to engage with one of the greatest entertainers of today with a special Q&A segment after the show.

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Swan Lake

March 18, 2009 (Returning: April 19, 2013)

A classic tale about a princess turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer, the Russian National Ballet Theatre's version of the most famous ballet of all time was presented by Music Worcester, Inc. They are making their triumphant return to the Hanover in April.

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Alvin Ailey

May 11, 2011

The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater brought their brilliantly choreographed and artistic dance show to the Hanover. The audience enjoyed the unmatched energy and joy that only these talented performers could bring. It was their only Massachusetts stop that year, rather than their usual Boston visit.

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Bill Cosby

February 21, 2009 (Returned: May 4, 2012)

Bill Cosby is one of the great comic figures of the last 50 years. His unique brand of sharp wit and comedic storytelling has come to the Hanover Theatre twice.

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Glen Campbell

January 11, 2012

After his devastating Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Glen Campbell hit the road in "Glen Campbell - The Goodbye Tour," performing at the theatre in the beginning of 2012. Attendees enjoyed a heartfelt performance by the American country music singer and guitarist accompanied by members of his family.

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Maya Angelou

May 9, 2012

Maya Angelou is a world-renowned poet, playwright and author, a true literary giant of the 20th century. She is also a civil rights hero. Her voice has been a source of inspiration and strength for millions, including those who were lucky enough to see her at the Hanover. She encouraged the audience with short stories from her life and the lessons she learned along the way.

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Blue Man Group

June 8-10, 2012

Fun, energetic, hilarious and positively hypnotizing, the Blue Man Group has become a household name in America. Their unmatched musical theatrics are a must-see, and many in Worcester had the opportunity to take it all in thanks to the Hanover.

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Mary Poppins

September 25-30, 2012

This wonderful tale of a magical English nanny came to the Hanover in the Fall of 2012. The timeless tale has been adapted in numerous forms since the original children's books; this particular version was co-produced by Cameron Mackintosh and Disney.

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Les Miserables

April 2-7, 2013

Cameron Mackintosh brings to the stage a brand new version of the marvelous musical based on Victor Hugo's timeless tale. The emotional story of love and redemption has been performed for 25 years; this particular version has been praised by critics and fans alike for its spectacular visuals and breathtaking scenery.

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Diana Krall

April 17, 2013

The theatre’s founders, supporters and other attendees will reflect back on five years of world-class entertainment during the Hanover Theatre's fifth anniversary celebration, featuring special guest performer and award-winning jazz artist, Diana Krall.