[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 103 (Monday, July 14, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Page S9327]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         IN RECOGNITION OF GOODSPEED MUSICAL'S 40TH ANNIVERSARY

 Mr. DODD. Mr. President, I wish to congratulate Goodspeed 
Musicals of East Haddam, CT, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary 
on July 16, 2003.
  Goodspeed has come a long way in 40 years. It was originally formed 
in 1959 to save the historic Goodspeed Opera House from destruction. 
Not only did Goodspeed Musicals succeed in that effort, it restored the 
19th century landmark to its former glory, and reopened it in 1963 as a 
professional theatre.
  In the four decades since, Goodspeed Musicals has played a vital role 
in perpetuating and promoting the art of musical theatre--not only in 
the State of Connecticut but nationally and even internationally. From 
its modest beginnings, Goodspeed has gone on to produce over 186 
musicals, including 43 world premiere productions and 16 that went on 
to Broadway.
  In addition to performances at the Goodspeed Opera House, Goodspeed 
Musicals now also stages shows in the Norma Terris Theatre in Chester. 
Its growth is a testament to the hard work of so many Goodspeed 
employees, volunteers, members, and supporters, and to the enjoyment 
and wonder that musical theatre can instill in so many people.
  Over the years, Goodspeed has showcased classics by composers such as 
Gilbert and Sullivan and Cole Porter. But it has also been a palace 
where emerging artists have been able to develop their work and present 
it to audiences for the first time. It has produced more than 63 new 
shows--the largest number of new musicals for any theatre in America.
  Productions such as Annie, Man of La Mancha, and Shenandoah had their 
world premieres at Goodspeed. And countless actors, musicians, 
choreographers, directors, and other members of the theatre community 
have had their careers advanced and enriched by working at Goodspeed.
  Goodspeed productions that have made it to Broadway have earned over 
a dozen Tony awards. And for its contributions to American musical 
theatre, Goodspeed Musicals has earned two Tony awards of its own.
  In addition to producing musical theatre, Goodspeed Musicals has also 
devoted itself to promoting understanding the art form. At Goodspeed's 
Max Showalter Center for Musical Theatre Education, students--both 
professional and amateur--gain a greater appreciation of all aspects of 
musical theatre and also participate in training and development 
programs that help them put their knowledge into practice.
  Goodspeed has become an integral part of a rich and vibrant arts 
culture in the State of Connecticut. Along with the Shubert and Long 
Wharf Theatres in New Haven, the Bushnell and the Hartford State in our 
State's capital, and numerous other theatres, production companies, and 
musical groups, Goodspeed provides an environment where musical theatre 
and the performing arts can, and will, continue to thrive and flourish.
  On a personal note, as a resident of East Haddam and a member of 
Goodspeed's Board of Directors, I have enjoyed many a magical evening 
at the Goodspeed Opera House. And it is my fervent hope that Goodspeed 
Musicals will continue to inspire and entertain for many years to come.
  I offer my warmest congratulations to Michael Price, the remarkably 
talented Executive Director of Goodspeed Musicals, and to everyone who 
has been a part of Goodspeed over the past 40 years. I wish them and 
Goodspeed Musicals nothing but continued success in the future.

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