THE HANOVER THEATRE TO HOST SWAN LAKE
—Music Worcester to Present Tchaikovsky Classic—
—Ballet Sponsored by The Hanover Insurance Group Foundation—
WORCESTER, Mass., (February 17, 2009) Music Worcester, Inc., the largest, non-profit concert presenter in Central Massachusetts, today announced that it will proudly present The Russian National Ballet Theatre of Moscow, as it performs Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet, Swan Lake. The performance is made possible through a sponsorship by The Hanover Insurance Group Foundation, Inc. and will take place on Wednesday, March 18 at The Hanover Theatre for The Performing Arts.
This exclusive, one-night only event marks the first time a traveling ballet company has performed in the historic Hanover Theatre.
“We are thrilled to bring the world-renowned Russian National Ballet Theatre of Moscow to The Hanover Theatre as part of our 149th Worcester Music Festival,” said Stasia B. Hovenesian, Executive Director of Music Worcester. “Music Worcester has a proud tradition of presenting critically acclaimed symphony orchestras and soloists from around the globe to our community. With a beautiful score, exquisite choreography and breathtaking costumes, the legendary Swan Lake will prove to be a triumphant event that is enjoyed by ballet enthusiasts as well as those who are new to this musical art.”
The Russian National Ballet Theatre of Moscow is led by Artistic Director Elena Radchenko. With over 50 dancers, the company is focused on upholding the grand national tradition of major Russian ballet works and developing new talents. The company’s rendition of Swan Lake has received rave reviews world-wide, calling it “sheer magic and a pleasure to see such high art.”
"It is wonderful that Music Worcester is able to bring this exclusive performance to Worcester and we are very pleased to play a role as the leading sponsor," said Linda McGowan, president of The Hanover Insurance Group Foundation. "This landmark event exemplifies what we set out to do in our support of the theatre—to help build a vital cultural resource that would attract world class entertainment, bring hundreds of thousands of people to downtown Worcester and serve as an economic engine. We hope that this performance will encourage others to get involved and join in its support.”
In addition to providing financial support to Music Worcester, The Hanover Insurance Group Foundation, also will provide 30 tickets to students who participate in Burncoat Senior High School’s dance program.
“As we approach our one-year anniversary, we are proud to host this world-class ballet,” said Troy Siebels, executive director of The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts. “Prior to the theatre’s opening in March 2008, Worcester simply did not have a venue where a touring ballet company of this caliber could perform. This performance marks another milestone for us, and should be another source of pride for those who have contributed so generously to fund the theatre’s restoration. We have made great progress over the past year, but we continue to have aggressive fundraising goals. Performances of this caliber will help us reach these goals, ensuring that this magnificent venue thrives long into the future.”
Tickets for Swan Lake can be purchased by contacting The Hanover Theatre. Visit www.hanovertheatre.org or call the box office at 877-571-7469.
About Music Worcester, Inc.
For over 149 years, Music Worcester, Inc. has played a critical leadership role in the promotion and advancement of cultural activities in the Greater Worcester area.
Music Worcester, Inc. is one of the oldest and largest, non-profit concert presenters in Central Massachusetts, serving as the distinguished host of the oldest music festival in the United States (now in its 149th Season) ― Worcester Music Festival.
In addition, as a part of their continuing effort to give back to the local community, each year, Music Worcester, Inc. hosts a Young Artists Competition, awarding scholarships and performance opportunities to young, highly talented area musicians.
About The Hanover Insurance Group Foundation
The mission of The Hanover Insurance Group Foundation, Inc. is to improve the quality of life in communities where The Hanover Insurance Group companies have a major presence, placing a special emphasis on helping to build world class public education systems and inspiring and empowering youth to achieve their full potential.
The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc., based in Worcester, Mass. is a leading provider of auto, home and business insurance in Massachusetts.
The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. is the holding company for a group of insurers that includes The Hanover Insurance Company, also based in Worcester; Citizens Insurance Company of America, headquartered in Howell, Mich., and their affiliates. The Hanover offers a wide range of property and casualty products and services to individuals, families and businesses through an extensive network of independent agents, and has been meeting its obligations to its agent partners and their customers for more than 150 years. Taken as a group, The Hanover ranks among the top 40 property and casualty insurers in the United States. For more information, please visit www.hanover.com.
About The Hanover Theatre
The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts is a world class theatre located in Worcester’s historic Federal Square. Originally built in 1903 as a vaudeville house, the building that is now home to The Hanover Theatre was renovated in 1926 in the grand tradition of the most ornate film theaters of the day by noted architect Thomas Lamb (architect of Boston’s Opera House). The theater has undergone many names and additional renovations over the decades. The grand reopening in March 2008 was the culmination of a $31 million renovation funded by contributions from hundreds of foundation, corporate, and individual donors. Since then, the Hanover Theatre has established its place as a rich entertainment and cultural destination. With Broadway shows, music, comedy, magic, and more, The Hanover’s second season promises to build on the success of the first season, and help to revive Worcester as a cultural and arts destination. For more information, visit www.thehanovertheatre.org.
CONTACTS:
The Hanover Insurance Group Foundation
Amy Lynn Banek, Manager, Media Relations
(508) 855-4486
Email: abanek@hanover.com
