Come hear the complete story of The Goodspeed Opera House. After an approximately one-hour tour, alumni, families, and friends will adjourn next door to The Gelston House for lunch. At over 150 years old, this building has been a tavern, fine dining establishment, and inn, and offers fantastic views of the Connecticut River. Adult entree choices include penne pasta, chicken marsala, sliced New York sirlion, and seared salmon. Salad, chocolate mousse, and coffee or tea are included. The children’s menu offers chicken fingers, hamburger/cheeseburger, hot dog, or pasta.

Unfortunately, there is a 55-person limit for the Goodspeed tour. This event will fill quickly. Thus, please book early. Although not part of the Club event, please consider staying for the 3 PM Matinee performance of Thoroughly Modern Millie. Cornell block, reduced price play tickets may be purchased by calling Kate at the Goodspeed Group Sales Office (860-615-0316).

Registration deadline is 11:59pm on Friday, April 21.

More on The Goodspeed Opera House:

Built in 1876 by William Goodspeed, a local merchant and baker, this architecturally unique theater opened in 1877 as a venue for plays, not opera. Unfortunately, after Goodspeed’s death in 1882, the property fell into disrepair serving multiple purposes ranging from a militia base in World War I to a general store, and finally, a Connecticut DOT storage facility. In 1956, after the building had been condemned by the State of Connecticut, Goodspeed Musicals, a non-profit group of concerned citizens, purchased the property from the state for $1. Restoration began in 1959, and the theater was rededicated in 1963. Over the years, Goodspeed has seen 19 of its productions go to Broadway, including such classics as Man of La Mancha and Annie, both of which were developed at the Opera House.