First Pres Opens 2022-23 Season with The Greatest Showman in Concert

When the folks at First Presbyterian Theater began planning their 2021-22 season, they were in the middle of a national search for a new executive director. The last slot of the season was left open so, when hired, the new director could have an opportunity to put his or her own stamp on the season.

Instead Todd Sandman Cruz, in his first year as director of fine and performing arts, made the May performance the kickoff for the 2022-23 season. With that slot, he chose to bring a concert performance of The Greatest Showman to the First Pres stage. The show not only capitalizes on the popularity of the film and its soundtrack, but it affords the concert performance to tap into themes of humanity through music and dance. Sandman-Cruz expounded upon the performances in a press release.

“I’m beyond excited to be making my Fortt Wayne and First Pres Theater directorial debut with The Greatest Showman-A Celebration of Humanity-In Concert”, he said. “This show is quite different from anything that has been seen at First Pres for some time, and the concept takes the music and the message of The Greatest Showman, which is acceptance of all people, and expresses it through song and dance. Showman opens our eyes, hearts, and minds, helping us to love ourselves and others, just as we are! A very important lesson, especially during a pandemic and very divisive times”. I felt the show and songs have such a great message; what makes us unique and special should be celebrated and lifted up rather than made fun of, bullied or shamed. We are using the music to speak to what we are dealing withtoday in society and within ourselves; finding hope, love, and acceptance- the humanity that lies within all of us and expressing it forward to simply be... better humans.”

Performances are for one weekend only, Friday, May 20 at 7:30 pm, Saturday and Sunday, May 21 & 22 at 7:30 pm and 2:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Theater, 300 West Wayne Street. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online at firstpresfortwayne.org/theater, in person at Community Box Office in the Arts United Center at 303 East Main Street, Fort Wayne, IN, or by telephone at 260-422-4226. Tickets may be purchased onsite at the theater one hour before each performance.