Jerry Herman Ring Theatre facts for kids
The Jerry Herman Ring Theatre is the student theatre at the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida. It's a special place where students learn about acting and put on plays.
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A Look Back: The Ring Theatre's Story
The Jerry Herman Ring Theatre first opened its doors in 1946. The building you see today was finished in 1953. This theatre is famous because many actors who became big stars started here. These include Steven Bauer, Ray Liotta, and Sylvester Stallone.
The theatre is named after Jerry Herman, who graduated from the University of Miami in 1953. Jerry Herman became a very successful composer for Broadway shows. He wrote music for famous musicals like Hello, Dolly!, Mame, and La Cage aux Folles.
Where the Ring Theatre Has Been
Since it began, the Ring Theatre has performed in three different places. Before its current home, it was in a circus tent! It was also in a round building. That building was once used to train airplane navigators during World War II.
Why "The Ring"?
The theatre got its name because of its first performances. The audience sat in a "ring" around the stage. This is called "in-the-round" staging. The current building was designed by Robert M. Little and Marion M. Manley. It was built between 1951 and 1953.
The building has a unique round shape. It also had a new kind of flexible seating. This design got a lot of attention in the theatre world. The roof is made of strong concrete. It's held together by a large steel band, like the bands on old wagon wheels. This design helps the theatre stand strong against hurricanes, even with very high winds.
Changes Over Time
In the 1970s, the theatre changed its stage setup. It became a "three-sided thrust" stage. This means the audience sits on three sides of the stage. After a big update, the theatre can now change its stage and seating in many ways. This makes it very flexible for different kinds of plays.
The main stage inside the theatre is called the Alvin Sherman Family Stage. It's named after Alvin Sherman. He helped pay for the theatre's updates.
You can even get to the Ring Theatre by public transport! It's served by the Miami Metrorail at the University Station.
Famous Actors Who Started Here
Many talented people who studied at the University of Miami performed at the Ring Theatre before they became famous. Here are some of them:
- Steven Bauer - He played "Manolo Ray" in the movie Scarface.
- Jeff Coopwood - He was the voice of "The Borg" in Star Trek: First Contact.
- Gail Edwards - She played "Vicky Larson" in the TV show Full House.
- Joshua Henry - He played "Haywood Patterson" in the musical The Scottsboro Boys.
- Dawnn Lewis - She played "Jaleesa Vinson-Taylor" on the TV show A Different World.
- Ray Liotta - He played "Henry Hill" in the movie Goodfellas.
- Ernie Sabella - He played "Mr. Petrachelli" on the TV show That's So Raven.
- Saundra Santiago - She played "Det. Gina Navarro Calabrese" in the TV show Miami Vice.
- Sylvester Stallone - He is famous for his roles in the Rocky and Rambo movies.
