Theatre
‘Unique amenity’ Virginia Somerville Sutton Theatre
hosts full slate of arts, education steps from your Well-Spring door
Years ago, Well-Spring made the strategic decision to become a hub for arts, culture and education by deciding to construct its Resident Activities Center. Today, this facility features art studios, a woodworking and hobby shop, an art gallery and rehearsal space – all housed adjacent to its crown jewel, the 350-seat Virginia Somerville Sutton Theatre.
“This has been a game-changer for Well-Spring,” Fleming said. “This theatre can host performances by an entire symphony orchestra, regional theatre groups, talks by noted speakers, movies, concerts and so much more. Our residents love it. This is, truly, a unique amenity. Where else can you have this type of in-person entertainment and learning – just steps from your own front door? Many of our residents plan a whole evening around a program in the theatre, often inviting friends or family to join them beforehand for dinner in one our dining rooms. The theatre is not only entertaining but also a great way to entertain.”
CLICK HERE TO SEE THE CURRENT THEATRE PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE!
The following is a sampling of just some of the programming we provide for our residents:
BROADWAY TO GREENSBORO SERIES
The Broadway to Greensboro Concert Series at Well-Spring is a collaboration between well-known Broadway artists, local musical theatre departments from select universities and performing arts schools and Well-Spring Events. Our goal is to bring Broadway closer to Well-Spring residents, as well as local audiences, with three artist concerts per season. In addition, one concert is performed by the UNCG Musical Theatre Program with proceeds from that concert benefiting its program.
One of the best parts of the program is the Masterclass, a separate event that is free and exclusive for residents. This resident-only event is like no other. The participating schools are allowed two spots for student interaction in the Masterclass. The students sing a short audition song on our stage. The Broadway artist interacts with each student to offer critique, praise, adjustments and advice. It is a favorite among residents because of the remarkable transformation that these young artists undergo on our stage!
Broadway to Greensboro is an entertaining and educational partnership between Well-Spring and the musical theatre departments of UNCG, UNCSA, Greensboro College, Elon University and Weaver Academy that is made possible and exclusively supported by Well-Spring resident, Sue Irvin and her late husband, John.
Accommodations for these stars are generously provided by the Quaintance-Weaver Restaurants & Hotels at the O. Henry Hotel in Greensboro.
WELL-SPRING PLAYERS
In addition to enjoying the wide variety of guest performances on our world-class stage, residents have opportunities for performing onstage themselves with the Ringers, Singers, or Players.
The Well-Spring Players is a Readers Theatre group, with no memorization required, that presents three programs –- concert readings or staged readings — in the theatre annually. They may choose to read actual plays or anything else that audiences would enjoy hearing, such as letters or historical documents. The group obviously includes performers, but also behind-the-scenes participants: stage managers, script readers, public relations, etc. The goal, as we embraceour retirement years at Well·Spring, is to continue being creative, contributing to the life of the community and sharing meaningful fellowship with a dedicated group. It is also very rewarding as residents come forward who have no previous stage experience or may have theatre as a bucket list goal or are remembering their positive experiences from high school.
WELL-SPRING RINGERS and WELL-SPRING SINGERS
The Well-Spring Ringers play the bells! Weekly rehearsals for these resident participants prepare them for combined fall and spring concerts with the Well-Spring Singers. As long as you can count and have some level of music reading ability, you can learn to ring the bells. No prior experience is necessary, and many of our longtime ringers started from scratch. The director is contracted through the Music Academy of North Carolina and adapts the musical pieces for the group. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn something new to share with your neighbors!
The Well-Spring Singers is comprised of residents who just want to sing. They rehearse weekly, with a summer break, and present fall and spring concerts combined with the Well-Spring Ringers. All residents, family and friends are invited to attend these concerts. The director is contracted through The Music Academy of North Carolina, and as such has the experience to bring together singers of all abilities. One does not need to have prior singing-group experience to participate, just a desire to sing, the ability to carry a tune and wish to share the camaraderie of a vocal-loving group of friends. Whether a professional or a novice, you are welcome!
