Changemaker Chronicles: Powerhouse Theatre Collaborative

Interview with Johanna & Bryan Halperin, Founders

“Building community through community theatre” is an apt description of the Powerhouse Theatre Collaborative. Now entering their fifth year as the resident theater company of the Colonial Theatre, they have forged partnerships with many local community nonprofits and companies. Powerhouse producer Bryan Halperin explains “some organizations provide financial sponsorship, others partner with us on smaller theatre events around the community

at their sites. It’s been a great way to meet people around the area and introduce ourselves”.

Co-Producer Johanna Halperin remembers the opening of the renovated Colonial Theatre coinciding with the lifting of COVID restrictions. “People appreciated it when we did our first live performance at the Colonial – they were itching to get out and there was a curiosity factor with the theater renovation”.

As Powerhouse settled into its new home, a call was made for community members to audition for upcoming productions. Bryan believes the high artistic achievements of the productions attract people, who then invite friends, creating a growing, vibrant community. To date, over 400 people have participated in at least one production, and many return show after show. Powerhouse even has a “10-Show Club,” honoring around 30 community actors who’ve participated in ten or more shows—and they’re about to welcome their first members into the “25-Show Club!”

Getting involved is easy, Bryan notes. Audition announcements are posted on their website and on social media. Beyond mainstage productions at the Colonial, Powerhouse also hosts smaller shows around town offering lower commitment opportunities. There are annual playwriting and improvisation workshops and for those who love singing, Powerhouse offers a community choir known as The Power Chords who perform around the area. “It’s a great option for those who have no theatre experience or have less time to commit to a full production”, Bryan adds.

Johanna emphasizes the revitalizing effect the Colonial has had on downtown Laconia. Powerhouse takes its community role seriously, keeping ticket prices under $25 and encouraging everyone to participate, whether on stage or in the audience. “We want to make sure the people who helped renovate the theatre can enjoy it,” she says.

Johanna and Bryan have been Auction volunteers for several years, but this is the first year the Powerhouse Theatre Collaborative has received Greater Lakes Region Children’s Auction funding. The funds provided free show tickets for children and families served by local nonprofits for this summer’s production of “Elf the Musical”. Additionally, Powerhouse raised money for the Auction during “Elf” performances. “It’s a meaningful investment,” Bryan says. “It all circles back to supporting the community.”

There are some exciting upcoming projects planned. “Journey Through Neverland” an immersive outdoor experience based on Peter Pan, will take place at Prescott Farm, with characters appearing as guests walk the grounds. “The Diary of Anne Frank” is slated for October, the Power Chords will perform in November and the annual holiday favorite production of “A Christmas Carol” will return in December.

Each large-scale musical production at the Colonial costs approximately $15,000 and Powerhouse relies on corporate sponsors to help meet that expense. There are links on their website for area companies to get involved. Another way to support the theater is to attend a performance which rewards the time local actors have put into their performance. Johanna says it’s fun for audience members to see familiar faces on stage. It allows audience members to see another side of someone while allowing the actors to share their talents.

Powerhouse Theatre Collaborative has become a creative home for many locals. Johanna says anything that “builds community is speaking our language”.

The Greater Lakes Region Children's Auction welcomes the Powerhouse Theatre Collaborative to the Auction family and thanks them for their contributions.

Article written by Beth Osgood Dodge. If you are a Greater Lakes Region Children's Auction funded nonprofit contact Beth at beth03253@gmail.com to arrange an interview and let us spread awareness for your mission!