It was a night of celebration as the Temple Theatre gave a glimpse as to its upcoming season.
A crowd filled the theatre as members of the Temple Teen Ensemble and others entertained and introduced the upcoming season.
The theatre’s Producing Artistic Director Peggy Taphorn said last season was “the most artistically rewarding’ since she began 16 years ago.
“But I am a little dismayed that our attendance is only about 60% of what it was pre-Covid,” she said. “The world has changed, and I’m afraid the recovery for the arts will take longer than we had hoped. Now more than ever, I need all of you to be our biggest and best supporters as we move forward.”
Taphorn noted upcoming events in the next few weeks that include “Moments with Paul” on March 23, The Heart of Carolina Jazz Orchestra on March 24 and The Will McBride Group on March 31.
A production of “All Shook Up” begins April 13 and continues through April 30. It is the final show on the main stage this season.
Taphorn encouraged people to attend and bring their friends.
“People have become accustomed to staying at home, but with your help we can convince people to reengage, get out and support the arts in this community,” she said. “We will continue to weather this pandemic and move joyfully and successfully forward by relying on your attendance and generous donations.”
Taphorn noted that in the past, patrons from 63 counties in North Carolina had attended events at the Temple. She said that 57% of the attendees and participants come from outside Lee County.
“That make us truly a regional performing arts center,” she said. “The Temple is the No. 1 tourist attraction in Sanford and Lee County.”
Annually, the Temple Theatre attracts between 20,000 and 40,000 visitors, benefitting local restaurants and retailers.
“Arts USA states that for every dollar spent at the Temple, an additional $9 goes into our local economy,” Taphorn said. “Therefore, Temple’s impact in Lee County is over $4.2 million annually.
Over the course of the night, between drawings for prizes, Taphorn spoke about upcoming programs between performances by the Temple Teens and others.
The Summer Conservatories include classes and performances for students ages 8-18. The summer theme is “Oh, the Places We’ll Go,” and includes a production of “Finding Nemo Jr.,” “Seussical,” “Macbeth,” as well as a Rising Stars program and “Leap Day,” an advanced teen musical conservatory.
The Mainstage season kicks off in the fall with “Annie.”
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