Bernadette Peters to open at ZACH gala

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Bernadette Peters, one of the greatest Broadway superstars, will headline the first opening gala, "Once Upon a Dream," at ZACH’s new Topfer Theatre Sept. 27.

The illustrious actress, winner of two Tony Awards, three Drama Desk Awards, and a Golden Globe Award, is known for iconic stage roles in "Gypsy, Song and Dance ," and Annie Get Your Gun among many others. Her performance at ZACH’s gala will include a 30-piece orchestra of Austin musicians.

Peters was selected in place of Johnny Mathis, who is being forced to postpone more than two months of performances due to emergency hip replacement surgery.

Peters’ career has spanned five decades in musical theatre, films, television, and solo concerts. She has appeared in 17 films and received a Golden Globe Award for her performance in "Pennies From Heaven." Television audiences have seen her most recently this season in the series "Smash."

Peters is considered by many the foremost interpreter of the works of Stephen Sondheim. Sondheim said of Peters, “Like very few others, she sings and acts at the same time. Most performers act and then sing, act and then sing ... Bernadette is flawless as far as I'm concerned. I can’t think of anything negative.” Frank Rich said in the New York Times , “As an actress, singer, comedienne and all-around warming presence, Bernadette Peters has no peer in the musical theatre.”

“It is truly perfect that one of the most iconic Broadway performers in American history will open our spectacular new Topfer Theatre,” says ZACH’s Managing Director Elisbeth Challener. “From her role as Dot in Sunday in the Park with George, to the role of the Witch she originated in the Broadway production of "Into The Woods," not to mention her recent work starring on Broadway in "Follies" and guest appearance on television’s Smash, Bernadette Peters has dazzled audiences and critics alike,” Challener says.

“It could not be more ideal than to have Austin’s newest theatrical jewel christened by the incomparable, versatile, electrifying, dynamic performer Bernadette Peters,” says Gala Chair Bobbi Topfer. “Mort and I are so honored to have her perform at the grand opening of ZACH’s new Topfer Theatre.”

Topfer Theatre amenities

• An intimate theatre with exceptional sightlines to the expanded stage
• Increased parking and valet service
• A grand lobby with breathtaking views of Lady Bird Lake, the Capitol and the Downtown Austin skyline
• Comfortable new seating with generous leg room
• Full service bars and expanded concessions on both levels
• Adjustable acoustics, a 72-foot fly tower for scenery and an orchestra pit
• Expanded restrooms and patron amenities
• An outdoor plaza to gather with friends for a drink before and after performances

A free community event to christen ZACH’s Topfer Theatre will be held Saturday, Nov. 3. More details will be announced soon.

The uplifting Tony-award winning musical "Ragtime" will be the first 2012-13 season production on the Topfer stage – previews begin Oct. 17. With more than 40 actors, supported by a full orchestra for the first time in ZACH’s history, "Ragtime" will showcase the capabilities of the new performance space, as well as the deep and inspired talent of ZACH’s company of actors and theatre artists.

Once Upon a Dream

"Once Upon a Dream" is a black-tie gala set for Thursday, Sept. 27, to showcase the technical capabilities and amenities of the new Topfer Theatre. A cocktail reception in the theatre will be followed by a seated dinner on the People’s Plaza under ZACH’s new custom tent.

Peters will christen the Karen Kuykendall Stage with a concert of songs from her many award-winning performances.

"Once Upon A Dream" is chaired by Bobbi Topfer, Kelly Topfer and Wendy Topfer.

Tickets and some tables are still available for the gala . Individual tickets are $1,000. Table prices and benefits vary: $25,000 table for 12; $15,000 table for 10; $10,000 table for 10; and a $5,000 couples package for two.

For tickets and information, call Eric Scott, senior development manager of special events, at 512-476-0594 ext. 260, or email escott@zachtheatre.org .

Deep in the Heart of ZACH

The Topfer Theatre and entire ZACH campus will be party central for the "Deep in the Heart of ZACH" opening gala event on Saturday, Sept. 29.

The event will feature Brian Stokes Mitchell, Broadway star of "Ragtime" and Tony Award winner for "Kiss Me, Kate ."

ZACH’s artists will be featured on the Kleberg stage, while area bands will perform on the People’s Plaza. Guests can attend Mitchell’s first or second concert in the Topfer, then partake in all the campus-wide festivities, concluding with an exclusive post-concert reception. All attendees will enjoy the opening ceremonies, food, drink, bands, and ZACH performances. This progressive party will offer Austin’s finest food vendors in a variety of stations throughout ZACH’s campus.

"Deep in the Heart of ZACH" is chaired by Bobbi Topfer, Christine Messina, and Deanna