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Upcoming Production at The Hanover Theatre Repertory Explores the Life of Eartha Kitt

By Jerry Filmore
March 23, 2026 2 Min Read
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By Jerry Filmore

WORCESTER, MA — The Hanover Theatre Repertory (THT Rep) has announced an original play with music celebrating the life and legacy of the legendary Eartha Kitt. The production, Who Is Eartha Mae?, will run from April 8 to April 19 at the BrickBox Theater in downtown Worcester.

Jade Wheeler as Eartha Mae
Jade Wheeler

Created by and starring award-winning theater artist and playwright Jade Wheeler, the intimate production brings audiences face-to-face with Kitt’s extraordinary six-decade career. Kitt, famously dubbed the “most exciting woman in the world” by Orson Welles, was a powerhouse across Broadway, film, television, and music (including classics like “Santa Baby”), as well as a dedicated civil rights advocate.

Wheeler’s performance captures Kitt’s distinct charisma while exploring her resilience and trailblazing journey as a Black woman in entertainment. Through storytelling and live piano accompaniment, the play highlights the deep contrast between Kitt’s glamorous public persona and her difficult upbringing, inviting the audience to know the woman behind the icon.

Following its Worcester engagement, Who Is Eartha Mae? will transfer to the Urbanite Theatre in Sarasota, Florida. The Worcester production is directed by THT Rep Artistic Director Livy Scanlon, with music direction by Catherine Stornetta and choreography by Joanne Caidor.

Event & Ticket Details

In alignment with The Hanover Theatre’s commitment to community accessibility, special preview pricing is available for early attendees.

  • Dates: April 8–19, 2026
  • Location: BrickBox Theater at the Jean McDonough Arts Center
  • Preview Pricing: $43 (a $20 savings)
  • Tickets: Available online at TheHanoverTheatre.org, by calling 877-571-7469, or at the Box Office.
Jade Wheeler as Eartha Mae

🔍 The W.U.W. Verification Box

  • Project / Topic: Who Is Eartha Mae? theatrical production
  • Current Status: Tickets on sale; opening in April
  • Key Dates or Decisions: Runs April 8–19, 2026
  • Estimated Cost: Preview tickets available for $43; standard pricing varies
  • Timeline (if known): Two-week engagement at the BrickBox Theater, followed by a Florida transfer
  • Immediate Next Steps: Ticket sales and performances
  • Primary Sources: The Hanover Theatre & Conservatory for the Performing Arts press materials

About The Author

Jerry Filmore

Jerry Filmore is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of What’s Up Worcester News, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization community news outlet dedicated to informing, engaging, and empowering Worcester through accessible, accurate, and inclusive storytelling. With over a decade of experience in management, community organizing, and media production, Jerry leads with a passion for amplifying local voices and spotlighting the people, places, and stories that make Worcester Massachusetts thrive.
When he’s not producing new shows or organizing community initiatives like Woo CommuniTree or Worcester Voices: Community Awards & Celebration Night, you can find Jerry collaborating with local creatives, mentoring young reporters, and continuing to build bridges across Worcester’s neighborhoods.

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Author

Jerry Filmore

Jerry Filmore is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of What’s Up Worcester News, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization community news outlet dedicated to informing, engaging, and empowering Worcester through accessible, accurate, and inclusive storytelling. With over a decade of experience in management, community organizing, and media production, Jerry leads with a passion for amplifying local voices and spotlighting the people, places, and stories that make Worcester Massachusetts thrive. When he’s not producing new shows or organizing community initiatives like Woo CommuniTree or Worcester Voices: Community Awards & Celebration Night, you can find Jerry collaborating with local creatives, mentoring young reporters, and continuing to build bridges across Worcester’s neighborhoods.

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