By Carrie Putelo, Editor-in-Chief, Mohawk Valley Living
As someone who moved from just outside New York City, I was excited to discover that the Mohawk Valley had its own kind of Broadway magic—right here at home.
One thing some people don’t know about me is that I was a theatre kid. I loved the stage—from playing Rizzo in Grease to Cecily in The Importance of Being Earnest, it was where I found confidence, creativity, and community. From Les Misérables to Wicked, Mamma Mia to Rent, I’ve been fortunate to see many Broadway shows that have stayed with me for years. Each one reminded me why I fell in love with the stage in the first place. Theatre wasn’t just entertainment. It was inspiration, identity, and something I was lucky to share with my daughter, who’s now just as passionate about it as I am.
So, you can imagine my surprise— and my joy—when I discovered that authentic, Broadway-caliber productions were happening right here in Utica. Real national tours. Stunning casts. Full-scale sets.
The kind of performances that transport you entirely. And all at the historic Stanley Theatre, just minutes from home.
One show I had always wanted to see on Broadway in New York—but never had the chance—was Dear Evan Hansen. We’ve been to several Broadway Utica shows over the years, but this past April’s performance really stayed with us. Walking out of the theatre—after another unforgettable night at The Stanley—my daughter and I looked at each other and just smiled. It reminded me how much joy these nights bring, how connected I feel every time the curtain rises. That moment sealed it: I’m getting season tickets this year. Not for the perks, but for the memories my daughter and I make each time we sit in those red velvet seats. If you’re craving more of that in your life, I hope you’ll join me.
