Stephanie J. Block to Host Master Class, Headline Community Theatre League Benefit

The Community Theatre League, Williamsport's leading community theatre, has announced "An Evening with a Star," starring Tony Award nominee Stephanie J. Block on April 8 at 7:30pm.

Stephanie J. Block has established herself as one of the most relevant and versatile voices in contemporary musical theatre. She received both the 2013 TONY Award and Drama Desk nomination for Best Leading Actress in a Musical for her portrayal of Alice Nutting/Edwin Drood in The Roundabout Theatre's production of THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD. Other Broadway credits include Trina in the recent revival of FALSETTOS, Reno Sweeney in the 2011 TONY Award-winning revival of ANYTHING GOES, 9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL playing the role of Judy Bernly, for which she earned a Drama Desk nomination for Best Actress in a Musical. She created the roles of Grace O'Malley in THE PIRATE QUEEN and Liza Minnelli In THE BOY FROM OZ (opposite Hugh Jackman). Ms. Block is best known for her portrayal as Elphaba in the Broadway company of WICKED as well as originating the role in the First National Tour for which she won numerous awards including the prestigious Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Actress in a Musical.

In addition to the concert, Block will also host a Broadway Master Class at 12:00 pm on April 8th. This 2-hour Master Class is an opportunity for artists of all ages to work with Ms. Block, learning the techniques, tips, and tricks of a Broadway performer, hearing personal stories from Block's life, and some lucky participants will be able to work one-on-one with the Broadway star. Any person interested in auditioning for the one-on-one role should first sign up for the class, then submit an audition video to Seth Sponhouse, CTL's Education Coordinator, at ssponhouse@ctlshows.com. A limited number of tickets are also available for a post-concert VIP Meet & Greet, which will include desserts and beverages, and the opportunity to hold a conversation with Ms. Block.

This concert is the first of its kind for the Community Theatre League, where the focus is usually on local artists and talent. Bringing a Broadway star to Williamsport is a chance for many people to get and up-close and personal experience with one of Broadway's biggest stars. And in CTL's 179-seat thrust-stage theatre, it's an intimate and relaxed environment, without the hassle of traveling to New York City.

Tickets start at $40 and are available at ctlshows.com, or by phone at (570) 327-1777.
Master Class tickets are $40. VIP Meet & Greet tickets are $25. Tickets are limited for all events. Sponsorship and donor packages are available.

The Community Theatre League, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is Williamsport's premiere community theatre. Founded in 1976 with the vision of creating a true community-driven organization focused on making, promoting and supporting the performing arts, The Community Theatre League has presented over 200 Mainstage productions. CTL regularly produces 10-12 plays or musicals throughout the year, as well as special concert events and the Sprouts children's series. CTL holds a variety of summer camps for students of all ages, organizes the annual Ray of Light Awards for high school music theatre and drama programs, and is the home of the Community Academy of Stage and Theatre.

IF YOU GO:

The Community Theatre League presents
"An Evening with a Star" with Stephanie J. Block
April 8, 7:30pm
At The Community Theatre League, 100 W. 3rd Street, Williamsport, PA

The Community Theatre League presents
Master Class with Stephanie J. Block
April 8, 12:00pm
At The Community Theatre League, 100 W. 3rd Street, Williamsport, PA

Photo Credit: Walter McBride