For 70 years, the Crescent Players have been at the heart of Southern Connecticut State University’s theater community, fostering creativity, camaraderie, and an enduring passion for performance. The group’s roots go back to 1953, when a shift from classical theater to more modern and daring productions marked a revolution in Southern’s student theater scene.
Under the leadership of theater visionary Robert E. Kendall, Crescent Players evolved from the Drama Club into an influential experimental theater group in 1954, breaking away from tradition to embrace a more innovative approach to drama.
Over the years, Crescent Players expanded, with students taking on roles both on stage and behind the scenes—mastering everything from acting to costume design and lighting.
Alumni like Dan Lauria, ’70, known for his portrayal of the father in the beloved TV series The Wonder Years, credits Crescent Players as a formative part of his acting career.
“I wouldn’t be an actor today if it wasn’t for the Crescent Players and Constance Welch,” Lauria once said. His love for the stage began during a student production of Shakespeare, and he has since gone on to a thriving career in television and theater.
Other alumni, such as Joanna Keylock, ’91, made a name for themselves off-Broadway, while R. Bruce Connelly, ’71, found fame as the beloved Muppet dog Barkley on Sesame Street. Connelly reflects on his time with Crescent Players as crucial to honing his craft and building the discipline that’s essential for a long-term career in the performing arts.
The sense of family and teamwork that the Crescent Players nurtured in its members has been a hallmark of the group’s success. “Once a Crescent Player, always a Crescent Player,” says David Kendall, ’76, son of Robert Kendall and a lifelong supporter of the group.
The bonds formed during late-night rehearsals and weekend performances endure long after the final curtain call, fostering a community that remains supportive and close-knit to this day.
Crescent Players have also made significant strides in behind-the-scenes roles. Norma Lee Chartoff, ’80, has built a successful career in set design, production, and casting for television and theater, contributing to major productions like Star Trek: Voyager and The X-Files.
Gracy Brown, ’98, a former president of the Crescent Players, has extensive experience in theater production. She has worked closely with the Godlight Theatre Company, which was founded by fellow alumnus Joe Tantalo, ’93. Joe has received critical acclaim for his innovative approaches to Shakespearean plays and off-Broadway productions.
As Crescent Players celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, the community is invited to join a special Crescent Players Alumni Reunion on Friday, October 18, 2024. Titled “70 Years in the Making,” the event will kick off with a reception from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Lyman Center Lobby, followed by a performance of the hit musical The Prom at 8 p.m.
