Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/934053
168 HEART OF THE COMMONWEALTH: Profiles of Excellence T here's nothing like a top-rated Broadway show, popular musical group, or New York Times bestselling author to attract a crowd. And that's exactly what e Hanover eatre for the Performing Arts has been doing since opening its doors in March 2008. Aer a $32 million renovation project, this artistic crown jewel of the city has wowed more than 750,000 patrons from approximately 350 central New England cities and towns with its architectural elegance and first- rate entertainment. e theatre first opened in 1904 as a burlesque house. Twenty-two years later Silvestro Zefferino Poli bought the structure, converting it into a magnificent 3,100-seat silent movie theatre, replete with mirrored walls, marble columns, a glittering glass chandelier, and a Mighty Wurlitzer to accompany the action on the screen. With the dawn of "talkies," the theatre became Loew's Poli and in 1967, Redstone eaters renovated the building, reopening as Showcase Cinemas. irty years later, the construction of a multi-screen theatre on Worcester's outskirts forced the closure of the downtown venue. e building remained vacant until 2002 when National Amusements donated the theatre to the Worcester Center for the Performing Arts. Six years later, Worcester celebrated the opening of e Hanover eatre, a world-class venue for an array of top-notch entertainers and events that has revitalized the city. is cultural and architectural treasure reclaimed many of its former design elements and added some new features, such as an impressive founders wall in the historic lobby where receptions, birthday parties, weddings and corporate events are held. e second floor promenade, which overlooks the main lobby, is reserved for special functions, including sponsor receptions and photo opportunities. e Hanover eatre boasts more than 4,000 members and subscribers. e leadership donor group, e Franklin Square Society, enjoys special benefits including access to the Franklin Square Salon, an ornately decorated space above the original theatre entrance. Youth enjoy several opportunities to test the theatrical waters, including a three-week summer camp and special programs. A student critic program enables students to attend all Broadway shows, discuss the performances and work with a professional newspaper reviewer who teaches the art of the critique. Dedicated to the community, e Hanover eatre collaborates with other nonprofit groups to host a variety of fundraising activities. Events have benefited St. John's Food for the Poor, Abby's House and the Worcester Youth Center, among many others. e Community Fundraising Assistance Program donates $20,000 worth of tickets to nonprofits each year; approximately 14,000 children receive subsidized tickets for matinee performances, and more than 1,500 underserved families get complimentary admissions. A team of more than 200 active volunteers serves as The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts The overwhelming success of The Hanover Theatre is helping to drive economic development in downtown Worcester. P h oto s / C o u R t e s y s C ot t e R B