The Todd Performing Arts Center at Chesapeake College begins the fall with a full season of performances for the 25-26 academic year.

“Arts organizations and facilities throughout the country have struggled to come back from the disruptions of the Covid pandemic. We’re proud to offer arts programming to people of all ages on the Eastern Shore. In addition to traditional theatre, we’re offering original shows and interactive movie nights,” said TPAC Director Dr. Robert Thompson. “The Todd is back and we’re excited for the upcoming season.”

With a generous grant from the Maryland State Arts Council, the TPAC will offer more to audiences this year in the nearly 1,000-seat theatre.

“Theatre production can be expensive, so having these funds will help us do more with costuming and sets. Those things can enhance the overall quality of performances,” Dr. Thompson said.

Resident performing troupes such as the Peake Players and Phenomenal Animals bring Chesapeake students and community members together to present a variety of productions throughout the year. These are professionally-led, community-based artists who create original work in repertory.

New this year is a performance ensemble for children, according to Dr. Thompson. After successful theatre camps for children this past summer, the TPAC introduced a school-year program to provide learning and performance opportunities to school-aged children. TPAC is taking theatre into area schools with performances linked to school curriculum.

The season kicks off this month with “Ghosts and Legends of the Eastern Shore,” a night of storytelling and song by firelight on Thursday, Oct. 2 at 7 pm. Enjoy an interactive movie night with “Ghostbusters” on Thursday, Oct. 16 at 7 pm.

See the complete TPAC season schedule and purchase tickets.