Celebrating over 80 years of contributions to the arts and community, Theatre Americana gears up for a special Mother’s Day Weekend and Tea event, on May 11 and 12, featuring “Steel Magnolias” and “Shelby’s Wedding Tea Party,” not only promising theatrical excellence but also reflecting the company’s rich history of contributing to the arts and community for over 80 years.
Theatre Americana, established in 1935, has been a stalwart in California’s cultural landscape, presenting original plays by American playwrights and continuously evolving to embrace new traditions while honoring old ones. From showcasing a diverse range of musical talent to hosting writing and acting workshops, Theatre Americana has maintained a commitment to personal and artistic growth.
“Theatre Americana’s co-producer Benita Scheckel, who’s a resident of Pasadena, and the actress in one of the actresses in ‘Steel Magnolias,’ came up with the name based on the ‘Steel Magnolias’ performance that accompanies the tea,” Donna Scarantino, President of Theatre Americana and co-president of the Monrovia Guild of Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, said.
Shelby’s Wedding Tea Party is inspired by one of the characters in the play who has severe diabetes; that is the connection with the show and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, which treats childhood diabetes patients along with other ailments, Scarantino said.
Scarantino said the theater company is proud to partner with nonprofits that provide support for children and adults and promote an all-inclusive and equitable environment.
“Last year and the year before theater Americana helped support the completion of a five-year goal for the Monrovia Guild through live performances of ‘Steel Magnolias’ and our Broadway show,” she continued. “The Monrovia Guild of Children’s Hospital was one of several guilds that raised money for transplant surgery and endocrinology.”
The upcoming production of “Steel Magnolias” is directed by Susan Lambert Hatem and promises a blend of southern charm, real-life wit, and poignant storytelling. The Saturday and Sunday matinees will feature “Shelby’s Wedding Tea Party,” with proceeds from the event going to support Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.
Scarantino said the immediate goal is to sell out both the performances on May 11 and 12 to benefit the newly assigned endowments for CHLA. The collaboration between Theatre Americana and the Monrovia Guild of Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles further encourages community support in healthcare and the arts.
“We often have adults who received care at CHLA as children come speak at our events,” she added. “Community support is crucial, especially for families who may be struggling financially.”
Tickets to the “Steel Magnolias” production and “Shelby’s Wedding Tea Party” are from $20 to $55 and can be purchased online through https://www.eventbrite.com/e/
To learn more about Theatre Americana, visit https://theatreamericana.com/.
