Glimpse the History and Magic Behind the Curtain at the Palace Theater

Have you ever wondered what's behind the scenes of a theater or what the symbolism of a ghost light is? That and much more will be explored and explained during the Palace Theater's monthly tour on Saturday, September 30.

The guided tour offers an opportunity to get an insider's view and learn about the magic behind the curtain along with the history and lore steeped in ninety-five years as an entertainment venue and community gathering place.

The tour given by trained Palace volunteers begins at 11a.m. to 12:30p.m. Admission is $5.00 per person and can be purchased online at www.palacetheaterct.org, by phone at 203-346-2000, or in person at the Box Office, 100 East Main St. in Waterbury. Groups larger than ten people are asked to contact the Box Office to book their reservations in advance.

During the tour, attendees are led through nine decades of the theater's entertaining history including facts and some lore, while viewing and learning about the stunning architecture and backstage magic related to the Palace story. In addition to exploring the public spaces, tour takers will have the opportunity to visit hidden areas that are off limits to patrons attending shows or events, such as the green room, wig room and star dressing rooms. You can even stop to take a selfie at the stage door. Tour takers will also be able to experience the thrill of walking across the stage and viewing the venue's hidden backstage murals featuring show motifs painted and signed by past performers and Broadway touring company cast members. Guests will also browse a collection of the theater's pre-restoration photos, in addition to viewing elements from the Palace's Tenth Anniversary History Exhibit, which include a visual timeline of historic milestones dating back to 1922, as well as original theater seats from the 1920s.

The tour is 90 minutes and is led by a team of engaging volunteers well-versed in the theater's rich history, architectural design and entertaining anecdotal information. The walking tour covers five floors of history and architecture, including grand staircases from the 1920's. While elevator access is available, guests with challenges walking or climbing stairs or other health concerns are asked to inform the Box Office ahead of time, so that the tour guides can make accommodations in advance to insure a pleasurable experience for all.

In addition to the regularly scheduled monthly dates, the Palace tour makes a memorable activity for alumni associations, client cultivation and other groups. Accommodations can be made for private tours that include refreshments or lunch. For inquiries contact Deirdre Patterson at 203.346.2011.

For general information about the venue visit www.palacetheaterct.org.

The Palace's primary purpose is to revitalize the Greater Waterbury community through the presentation of the performing arts and educational initiatives in collaboration with area cultural and educational institutions. Its mission is to preserve and operate the historic Palace Theater as a performing arts center and community gathering place that provides a focal point of cultural activity and educational outreach for diverse audiences.