TANNERSVILLE — The Maude Adams Theater Hub (MATH) celebrated its fifth year with its recent production of Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical. The Orpheum Performing Arts Center at 6050 Main Street, Tannersville was packed for each of the shows on July 2nd, 3rd, and 5th, during an intense heat wave in our area. “People turned out in droves, and our air conditioning was only one of the perks,” jokes Amy Scheibe, Creative Director of MATH and Executive Director of the Catskill Mountain Foundation (CMF). “We had two full sell-outs, one for each [actress playing] Matilda, which was so great for them each to experience.” This year’s performance broke last summer’s record for ticket sales and concessions. “We had to replenish the candy case multiple times,” says Scheibe. 

That MATH’s shows continue to draw ever-larger crowds would come as no shock to anyone who has enjoyed a MATH performance. Since its first production in July 2022, new performers have appeared on stage year after year and, before long, become familiar faces as they return for subsequent productions. Just as new performers arrive, so do the crowds. “Joy attracts joy, and we are in the business of making people happy on and off stage,” says Scheibe, who has been there from the start. “I could not have imagined five years ago that we would have come so far so fast, and that is a tribute to the tireless dedication of our creatives and actors to make it all happen.” 

The Matilda run may be over, but another event is still ahead for some of the performers. “The Catskill Mountain Foundation Benefit this year will feature a group of kids from Matilda singing 'When I Grow Up,' plus four young dancers from the Orpheum Dance Program who will be on stage with dancers from the New York City Ballet,” says Scheibe. “It will be inspiring to see our community talent up on the stage with renowned artists.” CMF’s Annual Benefit will take place on Sunday, July 12th at 12:00 pm. In addition to the performance, there will be a “living arts environment” throughout the Orpheum, offering guests the opportunity to “explore the space, connect with artists, enjoy special performances, and discover creative encounters throughout the afternoon.” There is also a silent online auction closing on July 9th at 5:00 pm. This year’s benefit will be held in honor of Skip and Anne Pratt. Visit catskillmtn.org for more information.