The Spirit of Erie Flies into the Bayfront Convention Center

It’s the “biggest show in Erie history.” “It’s a must-see family event.” It’s The Spirit of Erie Perry200 pageant at the Bayfront Convention Center June 25-30.

We’ve all watched and been in awe of the opening ceremonies at the Olympic Games – well…get ready to be awed by the spectacular event being staged by the Erie Playhouse to commemorate Erie’s extraordinary heritage.

Planners have been at work for over a year developing the concept and writing the original script and music. This is the first time the Playhouse has endeavored to produce an event of this magnitude. There are over 200 people participating on stage and back stage in this once-in-a-lifetime production.

The technical aspects of the show are enormous. The Playhouse is depending heavily on the talented individuals at Grise Audio/Visual and MoreFrames Animation in the creation of the special effects that range from muli-screen projections to lasers to animation and more. ZFX Flying Effects from Louisville, KY is being brought in to design the multiple flying sequences, which will involve aerial acrobatics. Costume designer Angela Howell traveled to Costume World in Florida and spent a week pulling hundreds of costumes for the show in addition to designing many more including the multiple “Spirit” costumes, which rival any Disney creation.

The show is being presented in six visually breathtaking segments beginning with a video of the creation of the solar system from which the “Spirit” of Erie (portrayed by Kelley McDonald) rises to pass her light to the first settlers, highlighting our journey that has led us to today and brings us together 200 years after the Battle of Lake Erie.

The show’s original script is the work of Shawn & Almitra Clerkin, Richard Davis and Teri Marshall. Andrew Rainbow composed the original music. The production is under the direction of Shawn Clerkin with Almitra Clerkin, Richard Davis, Susan Lechner, Heidi Sheehan and Kelley Ulmer handling the staging and choreography. Joe Hassler has deigned the sets and Angela Howell the costumes.

To commemorate the pageant and Erie’s vibrant history, a 64 page full color souvenir program is being printed and will be on sale during the pageant. The program is going to become a major piece of memorabilia to pass on to future generations. Programs will also be available for purchase at the Erie Playhouse.

SHOW DATES & TIMES
Tuesday, June 25 – Gala Opening Event at 5:30pm – show at 7:30 – $100 per person includes open bar/food stations.
Wednesday – Saturday, June 26 – 30 at 7:30 p.m.; Matinees Saturday & Sunday, June 29 & 30 at 2 p.m.
General Admission – $12, VIP – seating $22 Souvenir Program – $20
The Erie Playhouse, 13 W. 10th St. Erie, Pa.
Box Office: 814-454-2852 ext. 0 OR Perry200.com
Website: www.erieplayhouse.org