City of Taunton, MA

08/29/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 08/29/2024 07:37

O’Connell Welcomes New Taunton Performing Arts Center

O'Connell Welcomes New Taunton Performing Arts Center

Taunton, MA -Mayor Shaunna O'Connell is proud to welcome the newly-formed Taunton Performing Arts Center (TPAC) located at 21 Main Street in Taunton. The center represents a unique collaboration between Applause Academy owner Tim Knief and Middleboro Nemasket River Productions owner Natalie Cabral.

Mayor O'Connell was pleased to provide a $40,000 grant from ARPA funds to support the new performing arts company. The grant assisted in constructing new changing rooms, staging, and renovating rehearsal spaces.

"We are thrilled to welcome TPAC to downtown Taunton," said Mayor O'Connell. "This partnership will enhance our cultural landscape and provide new opportunities for our community to engage with the performing arts. We are committed to supporting the growth of the arts and ensuring that Taunton remains a vibrant, creative city."

As a non-profit theater organization, TPAC remains dedicated to educating, inspiring, and igniting passion for theater among community members.

"This merger represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide outstanding theatrical experiences and educational opportunities. By combining our resources, talent, and expertise, we will offer even more performances, workshops, and programs while still upholding our high-quality production value. TPAC is a celebration of our shared commitment to the arts and our dedication to fostering a thriving cultural environment. We are confident that this union will bring about a new era of creativity, collaboration, and community spirit. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the City of Taunton and Mayor O'Connell for their support and enthusiasm," said TPAC founders Tim Knief and Natalie Cabral.

TPAC is set to commence its inaugural season in October with the highly anticipated production of "Rocky Horror Picture Show: The Musical," which will begin on Friday, October 25. TPAC plans to stage six productions per year, including three traditional plays and three musicals. Upcoming performances include "Talk Radio," "Into the Woods," and Shakespeare's "Merry Wives of Windsor."

Performances will be held on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm with Sunday matinees at 2:00 pm and tickets will be available for $25 each. In addition to the performances, TPAC plans to apply for a liquor license to serve alcohol during shows and hopes to collaborate with area restaurants to offer discounts to patrons attending the performances.

"Join us for an unforgettable journey of arts and culture. Registration is now open at thetpac.org. Check out our full schedule and grab your spot today. We can't wait to see you at TPAC!" said TPAC Operations Manager Jenna Medeiros.###