Hubbard Hall (Cambridge, New York) facts for kids
Hubbard Hall is a beautiful old building in Cambridge, NY, United States. It was built a long time ago, in the Victorian era, as a special place for opera. Today, it's a busy cultural center run by a group called Hubbard Hall Projects. This group works to bring art and performances to the community.
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A Look Back: Hubbard Hall's Story
Hubbard Hall was first built in 1879. It was designed to be an opera house, a grand place where people could watch musical plays. It's located in what is now known as the Cambridge Historic District.
In the 1920s, the building wasn't used much anymore. But in 1977, some local people bought it. They worked hard to fix it up and make it a concert hall again. By the year 2000, Hubbard Hall had grown into a lively community arts center. It started hosting many different activities, like dance classes, theater shows, and art exhibits. In 2014, Hubbard Hall even received a special grant from the New York State Council on the Arts. This grant helped them continue their important work in culture and heritage.
Hubbard Hall Opera Theater
The Hubbard Hall Opera Theater (HHOT) is an opera company that started in 2008. It was founded by its artistic director, Alexina Jones.
HHOT brings opera performances to audiences in New England and upstate New York. They feature talented singers and musicians who have trained in classical music. The company aims to make opera enjoyable and affordable for people in smaller towns. HHOT often hires young professional artists for main roles. They also bring in experienced professionals who act as mentors, helping the younger artists learn and grow. During the summer, HHOT has a special program for college and graduate students. These students get to perform smaller roles in the operas.
HHOT usually puts on two main opera shows in August. They also organize smaller concerts that travel to different places throughout the year. The August shows often include one full-length opera with a smaller orchestra. They also have a shorter, less well-known second show that changes each year. Hubbard Hall Projects sometimes offers "pay what you will" events. This means you can pay any amount you choose to see the final rehearsals or some of the smaller shows.
Theatre Company at Hubbard Hall
The Theatre Company at Hubbard Hall was started in 1999 by Kevin McGuire. This company puts on plays, including famous works by William Shakespeare and other dramatic writers. They bring exciting live theater to the community.
The Battenkill Chorale
The Battenkill Chorale is a large singing group with about 100 members. This choir is based at Hubbard Hall. They practice and perform there, adding to the vibrant musical scene of the center.
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