The vision of actress/singer Janet Hayes Walker and her husband, Charles Dodsley Walker, The York Theatre Company began its life at The Church of Heavenly Rest, Fifth Avenue at 90th Street, where Charles was organist and choirmaster. In 1969, it occurred to Janet that the Parish House would make a good, little theater. I’m told the church gave them $50 to get off the ground. While Janet handled the creative, Charles was treasurer and kept the books.
James Morgan grew up in a home with appreciation of musicals. He arrived in New York fresh out of The University of Florida with a specialization in Scenic Design. Discouraged after months of closed doors, a “dear little theater group” based in a church was recommended by his aunt. Morgan began as an enthusiastic dogsbody to The York and became its indefatigable, banner-waving Producing Artistic Director.
The Theater and Riki Kane Larimer (Vice President of the York Theatre Board) has been running a cabaret series with a decidedly Broadway bent. Having presented one-off cabaret events in association with Mufti performances, Morgan notes this is a natural outgrowth. The culmination of the series, featuring all the entertainers and added guests is:
Broadway’s Great American Songbook: The Holiday Gala– An Online Cabaret Evening of Holiday Song
Hosted by Michael Feinstein
Master of Ceremonies Gerry McIntyre
Directed by MAC Award Winner Barry Kleinbort
From the Series: GEORGE ABUD, KLEA BLACKHURST, ROBERT CREIGHTON, KAREN MASON, LEE ROY REAMS, BEN VEREEN, ALTON FITZGERALD WHITE, and LILLIAS WHITE With Special Guests: JEREMY BENTON, KYLIE AND KAYDIN KUIOKA, CHERYL STERN, HALEY SWINDAL, THE SKIVVIES (NICK CEARLEY AND LAUREN MOLINA), DONNA McKECHNIE, LEGENDARY SONGWRITING TEAM RICHARD MALTBY, JR. AND DAVID SHIRE…
“The York’s intimate, imaginative producing style has become its trademark. Its productions have won critical acclaim, a host of honors and awards, and a loyal audience. Just as important, The York provides a nurturing, constructive environment for new artists to hone their craft, and for some of the masters of the musical theater’s Golden Age to take fresh looks at their classic works. A special Drama Desk Award was presented to the company for its “vital contributions to theater by developing and producing new musicals.”
Support one of the best small theaters of New York and be entertained.
Monday December 21, 2020 at 7 p.m.
The link to make donation/purchase: Buy Tickets: York Theatre Company (ovationtix.com)
