Mayo Performing Arts Center facts for kids
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MPAC, The Morristown Community Theatre
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| Address | 100 South Street Morristown, New Jersey United States |
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| Type | Performing arts center |
| Capacity | 1,319 |
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| Opened | 1937 |
| Architect | Walter Reade |
The Mayo Performing Arts Center (MayoPAC) is a special place in Morristown, New Jersey, where many different kinds of shows happen. It's a non-profit organization, which means it's not run for money but to serve the community. People come here to enjoy music, plays, comedy, and more!
Contents
History of MayoPAC
The building that is now MayoPAC first opened its doors in 1937. Back then, it was called The Community Theatre. It was a fancy movie theater, part of a group owned by Walter Reade. The very first movie shown there was Nothing Sacred on December 23, 1937.
Over the years, the theater became old and wasn't used much. It stayed empty for almost ten years in the 1980s.
Reopening as a Performing Arts Center
In 1994, the theater got a new life! It reopened as a place for live shows, not just movies. A big celebration happened with the Kirov Orchestra and pianist Alexander Slobodyanik.
More improvements came in 2007. An air conditioner was added, so the venue could stay open all year. A famous singer, Liza Minnelli, performed to celebrate this reopening.
In 2011, the upstairs balcony was updated. New restrooms, an art gallery, and snack areas were added.
Name Change to Mayo Performing Arts Center
Also in May 2011, the theater officially changed its name. It became the Mayo Performing Arts Center. This new name honored A. Dale "Bud" Mayo, who was a very important leader for the center.
Famous Performances at MayoPAC
Many well-known artists and groups have performed at the Mayo Performing Arts Center. Here are just a few examples:
Music Stars
- Aretha Franklin
- Tony Bennett
- The Beach Boys
- Ringo Starr and His All Starr Band
- Gladys Knight
- Kenny G
- Brian Wilson
- "Weird Al" Yankovic
- Yanni
Comedy Shows
Theater Productions
- RENT
- Stomp
- Wizard of Oz
- Elf the Musical
- Mamma Mia!
- Peppa Pig
Inspiring Speakers
Special Events
- Big Apple Circus
- The Nutcracker by the New Jersey Ballet
- Price is Right Live!
Getting to MayoPAC
It's easy to get to the Mayo Performing Arts Center. A New Jersey Transit bus stop is right next to the theater. The Morristown station for trains is also very close, about a 0.3 miles walk away.
See also
- New Jersey music venues by capacity
