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The Prosers Bring “Perspective” to Towngate

On Saturday, January 20th, The Prosers return to the Towngate stage, bringing their unique style of spoken word poetry. The group performs original, intensely emotional works. They share powerful stories of personal struggle and authentic experiences while examining social justice issues. The show begins at 8pm.

Perspective

This performance is The Prosers’ main show of this season at Towngate Theatre, and group member and director Whitney Healy said it is one not to miss. The theme for this show is “Perspective.”

“Prosers fans will be seeing something old and something new,” Whitney said.
“Without giving too much away, attendees will get to listen to expected heart-felt poetry but will see it from an all-new perspective.”

Prosers for this performance include: Ryan Norman, Samantha Pearl, Claudell Whetstone, Gabrielle Marshall, Whitney Healy, Adam Croasmun, and Cassie Springer.

Performers have taken the theme of “Perspective” and interpreted it in their own way, with a more advanced connecting element this time.

“As performers, this format has allowed us to experiment with something new while keeping the ‘safety’ of what is familiar,” Whitney said. “I know this sounds vague, but I don’t want to give away our secret!”

Samantha Pearl said that this show is “nothing like we have ever done before.”
“It’s innovative and original—a true Prosers’ creation. This show molds the boundaries between traditional theater and modern spoken word,” Samantha said.

Gabrielle Marshall said she is excited to be performing in the upcoming show.
“Being part of the creation of The Prosers group has made slam poetry and spoken word a part of who I am,” Gabrielle said. “I couldn’t imagine missing a show. It’s like a family reunion with art, thoughts, and writing every time I get on stage.”

Open Mic to Follow

In addition to The Prosers who are performing at this show, the event will also feature an open mic session. Poets, new and experienced, shy and bold, are welcome to bring their poems and read aloud to the audience.

If you have something to say, the microphones and the ears are open at Towngate Theatre. Come share your story. Come share your perspective.

Tickets are on sale now. Purchase tickets online, at the door or call 304-242-7700. Admission is only $5.

Towngate Theatre is more than theater…

Towngate’s Second Season enhances Wheeling’s arts landscape with literary programming, spoken word performances, improvisation and more. Programs often feature works by emerging and/or local authors, playwrights and poets.

OI’s Festival of Trees Brings Holiday Gift to American Legion Post 521

American Legion Post 521 in Shadyside, Ohio received a holiday gift this year as a result of Oglebay Institute’s annual Festival of Trees.

The annual fundraiser, held Nov. 10-17 at Oglebay’s Pine Room, brought crowds of people looking to get into the holiday spirit while supporting arts and cultural programs.

Festivalgoers enjoyed browsing a Christmas wonderland of fully decorated trees, wreaths, centerpieces and swags created by area designers. Special events took place throughout the week.

Proceeds from event admissions, sales and special events benefited Oglebay Institute’s nonprofit arts, cultural, and nature programs. Programs take place year-round and engage thousands of Ohio Valley residents of all ages.

American Legion Post 521 was also a benefactor of Oglebay Institute’s 2017 Festival of Trees, through what festival organizers call “the double giving impact.”

Patrons at the Festival of Trees wine tasting donated money to have a military-themed holiday display gifted to Post 521, which is now on display in the Post lobby for the holidays.

Decorated by Festival of Trees volunteers Christine Sacco and Ceil Dumas, the display includes a patriotic tree, military uniforms and memorabilia from all branches of the armed services and a “Fallen Comrade Table” in memory of fallen, missing and imprisoned military service members.

About Oglebay Institute

Offering public programs, classes and camps, special events and school programs for all ages in art, dance, theater, environmental education and history, Oglebay Institute is the oldest arts council in the nation, incorporated June 24, 1930.

Oglebay Institute operates six facilities in the Wheeling area: the Schrader Environmental Education Center in Oglebay Park; the Mansion and Glass Museums, also in Oglebay; the Stifel Fine Arts Center and School of Dance, 1330 National Road; and Towngate Theatre and Cinema, located at 2118 Market Street as well as the Terra Alta Mountain Camp in Preston County, West Virginia.

Photo Caption

Pictured, left to right, are:  Post 521 trustees Willie Merryman and Jick Weatherson, Oglebay Institute director of administrator services and Festival of Trees organizer Connie Moore, display decorator Christine Sacco and Lynnette Sickles, Oglebay Institute executive assistant and Festival of Trees organizer.