The Gallery of Scranton Celebrates Special Showcase

The Gallery of Scranton will celebrate naming “Diva Theater its “Theater in Residence” and the closing of “The Artist’s Soul” exhibit with a special presentation on Friday, May 5.

The Diva troupe will use music, movement, acting and original works in response to the visual art of
prominent Northeast Pennsylvania artists Robert Bergstrasser, Michele Davis, Paul DeLuca, Timothy Hawkesworth, Earl Lehman, Allison Maslow, Travis Prince, Frank Wengen, and the gallery’s owner, Helen Lavelle, who were all featured in “The Artist’s Soul” exhibit. The collaborative event is sponsored by Fidelity Bank who understands the positive impact that the arts have in our community. “The importance of the arts and creative sector on economic growth and vitality is often overlooked, but cannot be overstated,” said Dan Santaniello, president of Fidelity Bank.

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“Collaborative partnerships between nonprofits and the business sector make sense for our community.” Diva Theater is a nonprofit, award-winning community theater celebrating its 25th Anniversary in the city of Scranton. The company is under the direction of Paige and Bob Balitski with performances held in the Olde Brick Theatre. The performers have been rehearsing in the gallery itself and Paige Balitski said she is excited for the chance to partner on this special event.

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“At Diva Theater, we pride ourselves in producing original plays by local writers and showcasing the
talented performers we have here in Northeast PA. Everything we do works toward fostering the arts
throughout the community so we are excited to partner with Helen and The Gallery of Scranton to bring the work of these accomplished artists to life,” she said.

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The Gallery of Scranton will open at 5 p.m. and the Diva performance will begin promptly at 6 p.m.
Attendees will have a chance to meet and interact with all of the performers during a reception following their ½ hour show. Lavelle adds, “When the arts are integrated into the fabric of our community, great things happen. The Artist’s Soul exhibit has been viewed by hundreds to date. Now we are honored to bring Diva Theater talent to The Gallery of Scranton…and are thankful to Fidelity Bank whose support allows all to enjoy this performance free of charge.”