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February 26, 2021

Goodspeed Musicals to start streaming productions on demand

PHOTO | CONTRIBUTED A scene from the musical ‘Passing Through.’ 
By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo

Given the pandemic’s impact on theatergoers’ ability to watch a play or musical in person, area theaters have had to pivot to survive.

Goodspeed Musicals is starting its “Goodspeed on Demand” service in March, a way to bring productions to homes around the world, without any risk associated with COVID-19.

David Byrd, Goodspeed’s managing director, said he is optimistic about the new initiative and its ability to reach global audiences. 

Goodspeed typically hosts productions at its well-known historic venue on the Connecticut River in East Haddam. It also runs the Terris Theatre in Chester, which opened in 1984.

“Although we cannot yet welcome patrons back to our theatres, those near and far can now welcome Goodspeed into their home while supporting (us) as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic,” Byrd said in an announcement this week. 

The first on-demand musical to be offered via streaming is “Passing Through.” It debuted at the Terris Theatre in the summer of 2019, and tells the story of a man who journeys on foot from Pennsylvania to California. 

“Passing Through” will premiere on the new on-demand streaming service on March 15 and will be available until April 4. Goodspeed will announce new content available through the service at a later time.

Artistic Director Donna Lynn Hilton said Goodspeed has a history of developing new musicals.

“We are thrilled to launch Goodspeed On Demand with the archival video of the developmental production of ‘Passing Through,’” Hilton said.

Other area theaters have tried new strategies to stay afloat during the pandemic, such as interactive online events.

Tickets are $25 and are on sale now. While viewers only need to purchase one ticket per household to stream a production, Goodspeed is asking patrons to consider buying tickets for each viewer to help support the theater.

For more information about Goodspeed’s new service, visit goodspeed.org.

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