News from the Baruch Performing Arts Center

The Acting Company has announced that the Baruch Performing Arts Center (BPAC) will be its new home base in New York City. The Tony Award–winning company, which began in 1972 under the direction of John Houseman and Margot Harley, tours over 50 cities to audiences of more than 70,000 annually. Harley continues to helm the highly acclaimed company, which includes such alumni as Kevin Kline, Frances Conroy, Jesse L. Martin, Patti LuPone, and Lorraine Toussaint.

The Three Musketeers and Macbeth were the company’s first two productions to play in repertory in BPAC’s Nagelberg Theatre this spring. Many Baruch classes attended through a grant titled Ticket Subsidy, and the Baruch community (including alumni) received an exclusive discount. The Acting Company’s 2006–2007 season will include a new adaptation of Jane Eyre and another production to be announced shortly. Please visit www.baruch.cuny.edu/bpac for a complete list of BPAC events or www.the actingcompany.org for specific information on The Acting Company.

Baruch students were the first to see the world premiere of the Atlantic Theater Company (ATC) musical Spring Awakening, with music by Grammy-nominated Duncan Sheik, directed by Tony Award–winner Michael Mayer, and produced by Academy Award–nominated Tom Hulce of Amadeus fame (right). A special preview for Baruch students was arranged while ATC was rehearsing the highly anticipated musical at BPAC. Written in 1891 by Frank Wedekind and banned for 70 years, Spring Awakening is the haunting and powerful tale of tragic young love, boldly depicting a dozen young people as they make their way through their complicated, mysterious, and thrilling sexual awakening. The musical made its world premiere at the Atlantic Theater Company on May 18. Remember, Baruch’s community of students, alumni, staff, and faculty receive exclusive discounts to most productions at BPAC. Show your valid Baruch ID at the BPAC Box Office, located on the Plaza Level of the Newman Vertical Campus.

—Paula Mallino