The Gallery of Scranton names Diva its “Theater in Residence”

The Gallery of Scranton names Diva its “Theater in Residence”. Special Showcase on Friday, May 5

Scranton, PA – April 25, 2023 – The Gallery of Scranton will celebrate naming “Diva Theater its “Theater in Residence” and the closing of “The Artist’s Soul” exhibit with a special presentation on Friday, May 5.

The Diva troupe will use music, movement, acting and original works in response to the visual art of prominent Northeast Pennsylvania artists Robert Bergstrasser, Michele Davis, Paul DeLuca, Timothy Hawkesworth, Earl Lehman, Allison Maslow, Travis Prince, Frank Wengen, and the gallery’s owner, Helen Lavelle, who were all featured in “The Artist’s Soul” exhibit.

The collaborative event is sponsored by Fidelity Bank who understands the positive impact that the arts have in our community. “The importance of the arts and creative sector on economic growth and vitality is often overlooked, but cannot be overstated,” said Dan Santaniello, president of Fidelity Bank. “Collaborative partnerships between nonprofits and the business sector make sense for our community.”

Diva Theater is a nonprofit, award-winning community theater celebrating its 25^thAnniversary in the city of Scranton. The company is under the direction of Paige and Bob Balitski with performances held in the Olde Brick Theatre. The performers have been rehearsing in the gallery itself and Paige Balitski said she is excited for the chance to partner on this special event.

“At Diva Theater, we pride ourselves in producing original plays by local writers and showcasing the talented performers we have here in Northeast PA. Everything we do works toward fostering the arts throughout the community so we are excited to partner with Helen and The Gallery of Scranton to bring the work of these accomplished artists to life,” she said.

The Gallery of Scranton will open at 5 p.m. and the Diva performance will begin promptly at 6 p.m. Attendees will have a chance to meet and interact with all of the performers during a reception following the show.

Lavelle adds, “When the arts are integrated into the fabric of our community, great things happen. The Artist’s Soul exhibit has been viewed by hundreds to date. Now we are honored to bring Diva Theater talent to The Gallery of Scranton…and are thankful to Fidelity Bank whose support allows all to enjoy this performance free of charge.”

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ABOUT THE ARTIST

Helen Lavelle is an artist and an advocate. A communicator and a collaborator. A classically trained, contemporary painter based in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

A nationally-recognized leader in the advertising industry and the founder of Lavelle Strategy Group, she was educated at Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia’s Moore College of Art and Design, and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. She has also personally worked with American realists, Canadian impressionists, and Irish expressionist masters.

Her artwork has been displayed at numerous galleries around the world including M.A.D.S. Art Gallery in Milan, Italy and the Canary Islands, and La MaMa Galleria in New York City.

Inspired by extensive travel throughout France, Italy, the United States, South America, Ireland and Greece, her work is affected deeply by current global need and influenced by political climate.

Her figurative, landscape and abstract work is held in corporate and private collections worldwide.

Lavelle has devoted her life to chasing the light and capturing spirit. Whether it be with oil paint on canvas or with the launch of a multi-media, multi-platform advertising campaign, Helen Lavelle delivers her message with brazen authenticity. And has the awards to show for it.