Phoenix Theatre Company to open 2020-21 season outdoors

PHOENIX — The Phoenix Theatre Company went dark in March for the first time in its 100-year history because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, the group is set to welcome back audiences this fall in a new setting.

Beginning on Nov. 10 with “Happy Birthday Dionne,” a tribute to Dionne Warwick, six of the company’s productions will be held on an outdoor stage in the courtyard garden of Central United Methodist Church, just north of the theater at McDowell Road and Central Avenue.

Pairs of camping chairs will be socially distanced 6 feet apart across the lawn for attendees.

Masks and temperature checks will be required for all audience members, as well as the theater’s staff.

Patrons can expect the same high-quality productions they are used to, but less scenery may be used, according to Phoenix Theatre Company’s website.

The 2020/21 outdoor season runs through May 23.

“Becoming Dr. Ruth” is set to be the first indoor show since the shutdown with a June 2-27 run.

Two shows that were set to debut earlier this year will round out a three-show 2021 indoor summer season: “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” June 16-Aug. 1 and “Something Rotten” July 21-Aug. 22.

Ten productions were also announced for the company’s 2021/22 season, which starts next fall.

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