Pair of classics on GTA fall schedule

The Gainesville Theatre Alliance (GTA) has announced its fall lineup of productions, promising an enchanting blend of drama, laughter and magic. GTA is a one-of-a-kind, nationally recognized collaboration between the University of North Georgia (UNG) and Brenau University.

"We designed this season to be one that shares a little more levity and light to raise our hearts and minds, with perhaps a singular dip into the dramatic," Zechariah Pierce, GTA artist director and associate director of theatre in UNG's School of Communication, Film & Theatre, said. "We want to invite patrons, both new and long-standing, to return to the theatre."

The fall lineup begins with "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe" a show recommended for all ages. The Narnia story was dramatized by Joseph Robinette from the book by C.S. Lewis. Three shows will take place on Oct. 7 at 4:30 p.m., Oct. 8 at 2:30 p.m. and Oct. 14 at 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. in the Brenau University Pearce Auditorium.

November brings in another classic tale with Rodgers + Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” running from Nov. 10-18 at Brenau University’s Hosch Theatre on Academy Street in Gainesville, GA. This Tony Award-winning rendition of "Cinderella" is the Broadway musical from the creators of "South Pacific" and "The Sound of Music."

Rounding out the fall is "An Actor’s Carol: One Clown's Dickensian Marathon Toward Redemption," adapted for the stage by David Weber, Tim Blewitt and Zach Hilbun. The show will be performed by David Weber at UNG's Ed Cabell Theatre at the Gainesville Campus, and it runs from Dec. 1-3. This show is a cautionary tale that is amplified with elements of clown and mime techniques.

Performing in these productions will provide students a competitive edge due to the unique nature of GTA and the two University Theatre Departments.

"Our program is unique in its offering leadership roles to students in our professional-quality production work," Pierce said. "Since we don't have a graduate program, there are ample opportunities for students to participate in the shows as designers, assistant directors, assistant choreographers, and other roles that would otherwise go to professionals or graduate students in larger programs. This gives our students a head start in their professional journey and primes them for a competitive industry with a resume that shines above others."

Tickets for all performances are on sale now, and for the first time since 2019, GTA has reintroduced season packages. Patrons can receive a discount up to 20%, based on the number of shows they purchase. "An Actor's Carol" is not eligible for package discounts. Tickets and season packages can be purchased online at gainesvilletheatrealliance.org or by contacting the box office at 678-717-3624.