Playhouse Presents Community Traditions

The Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse, nestled in beautiful downtown Cocoa Village, is a gem of both history and the performing arts in our community. On the National Register of Historic Places and a member of the League of Historic American Theatres, the Playhouse collaborates with historic theatres throughout the U.S.

After 29 years of successful operation, Dr. Anastacia Hawkins-Smith, chief executive officer of the Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse, feels as if she has just inhaled fresh air.

“This upcoming season means more than just producing quality theatre, it is about creating a community and enriching lives through the performing arts,” Hawkins-Smith said.

The lifeblood of the Playhouse is volunteerism. All of the performers are volunteers with a range of experience. The Playhouse encourages new performers to attend open auditions.

The Playhouse will commence its 29th Season of “Broadway on Brevard” by presenting Disney’s The Little Mermaid followed by the musical adaptation of the holiday classic A Christmas Story and the toe-tapping music of Anything Goes.

In 2019, the Playhouse will present A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder. It will be the first time the uproarious and hilarious four-time Tony Award winning musical has been presented in Brevard County. The much-requested comedy, The Producers, completes the Playhouse’s “Broadway on Brevard” series.

Youth on Stage

The Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse has fostered quite the community. Over the last 29 years, its STARS of Tomorrow youth program has grown from eight young people to over 250 participants. Designed for ages 7 through high school, this program focuses on developing life management skills both on stage and off during preparations for their productions.

This year, the students will present four musicals including Elf the Musical Jr. — a musical take on the beloved film starring Will Ferrell, Disney’s Winnie the Pooh KIDS, James and the Giant Peach Jr., and All Shook Up — a musical homage to Elvis Presley.

Community Spotlights

In between its live theatrical programming, the Playhouse has developed the “Spotlight Series,” which provides opportunities for local artists and hosts numerous organizations. These include the Galmont Ballet for its holiday staple The Nutcracker, rock band HOT PINK for an encore performance of their tribute to Queen, as well as a new “Super Show” in January of 2019, the Florida Magician of the Year Contest, and an original showcasing of circus music and culture in its Music of the Big Top, under the direction of William H. Yoh, Jr.

Movie House

The Playhouse pays homage to its 1924 origin as the first movie theatre in Brevard County through its new Aladdin Film Series, which will allow audiences to relive the classic films “It’s A Wonderful Life” and “Miracle on 34th Street,” as well as fan favorites like “The Dark Crystal” and “Labyrinth.”

Diversifying

Perhaps what is most important to the team at the Playhouse is honoring theatre’s ability to tell diverse stories and bring unique perspectives that often get overlooked in mainstream dialogues. In January, the Playhouse will undertake the challenge to bring an original dramatic musical celebrating the life and music of an American legend to life when it presents Louis Armstrong’s Wonderful World.

“Not only is it exciting to create new material, but after so many years of presenting, it is our duty as a theatre to enrich the community by broadening their worldview and presenting an unexpected story,” Hawkins-Smith said.

— Cocoa Village Playhouse

Visit cocoavillageplayhouse.com or call 321-636-5050.

Check out this article in our DIGITAL MAGAZINE.