More Than Fundraising... The Weathervane Theatre Alumni Association sponsors a variety of events to support and promote the mission of the organization. In addition to raising funds, the events provide opportunities for alumni to network, volunteer and strengthen their connection to the ongoing efforts of the association and the theatre. The events are organized and performed almost entirely by volunteers. Alumni Weekend Each July the alumni association sponsors a reunion weekend in Whitefield, N. H. that features a fundraising performance at the Weathervane Theatre. Rehearsals are held at the historic Chase Barn Theatre which entertained Whitefield audiences prior to the existence of the Weathervane from 1934 until 1962. The weekend includes a cocktail reception and cabaret evening that provide opportunities for alumni to network and socialize. Following the show, alumni, current company members, friends and family come together for a cookout on the grounds of the Spruces, the theatre's summer residence. The first alumni show was entitled Alive at 35. Presented during the theatre's 35th anniversary season, the show was a retrospective of the theatre’s history from 1966 until 2000. Other alumni shows have included The Best Musicals You’ve Never Seen (On the Weathervane Stage),
a collection of songs from musicals never produced at the Weathervane and New Voices For a New Theatre, a celebration of mostly new and emerging musical theatre writers. New Voices For a New Theatre was the first production to be held in the Weathervane's new theatre. Other Events In February 2001, the WVAA gathered at Lincoln Center for a winter gala. Over 50 Weathervane alumni met to socialize and network amidst the massive beauty of the Vivian Beaumont lobby at Lincoln Center. Many had not reconnected since their summers together in Whitefield. Other events have included social gatherings in New York and Los Angeles, such as cocktail receptions, performances of fellow alumni at various theatres and cabaret rooms, and readings of new plays and musicals. These events bring alumni together outside Whitefield. They are an excellent opportunity to network and also provide a forum to communicate WVAA and Weathervane Theatre updates. The WVAA events continue to strengthen and grow the organization as we move forward with our mission. |
