There is a University at Buffalo connection to the Broadway tour of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory; The New Musical opens Friday event at Shea's Performing Arts Center. WBFO's senior reporter Eileen Buckley says the general manager of the tour is a UB alum.
"I got an MBA in accounting at University at Buffalo. I was there for both undergrad, graduating in 1995. I've just told everyone my age,” laughed Mark Shacket.
Shacket is a native of Rochester and serves as general manager of this tour and Foresight Theatrical. It provides services for Broadway and touring productions.
During his UB days, Shacket was actually planning to become an accountant. But that all while attending Les Mis at Shea's. He realized he could become a theater manager with his business degree.
“What lures you into the theater,” asked Buckley. “I’ve always loved theater and I think there are few art forms that can bring emotion, joy, sadness, experience, education, as well as addressing current issues,” responded Shacket.
Shacket tells WBFO News he's "thrilled" to be able to bring the tour to Shea's and in his college town. This production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factor will include those famous Oompa Loompa’s.
The show will run from Friday, September 21st through September 29th at Shea's.
“Anytime I want to remind myself why I do this – I just go out and watch the audience watching the show, Shacket remarked.