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Puerto Vallarta’s entertainment complex, ACT2PV, is ushering in a new era under the leadership of recently appointed General Manager, David Sabella. Sabella brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision for the theater’s future, centered on rebuilding its reputation, fostering community engagement, and delivering exceptional entertainment experiences.
Sabella recently met with about 30 of the community’s LGBTQ+ business leaders and some of ACT2PV’s top donors, and laid out his rebuilding strategy while asking them to meet with him over the next few weeks to let him know what they wanted to see from the theater.
During the presentation, held at the newly named Mary Ann’s Ovation Bar, Sabella recognized the difficult time the theater complex had faced since the Covid crisis and then the death of founder Danny Mininni.
“Frankly the staff is still shellshocked,” he said. “And I know we have lots of work to do to rebuild the reputation and build bridges. I will admit that transparency has not been as it might have been, and I stand here to promise you that we will be transparent in all our dealings.”
He said that owners Alfonso Lopez and Oscar Cisneros had brought him onboard because they wanted to hear and know the difficult truths and that they continued to believe in the vision of its founder.
Sabella is seeking Subscribers, Patrons, and Sustaining Donors for ACT2PV, and said almost all aspects of the theater needed some type of upgrade. He said the theater is willing to partner with any business in thinking of creating ways for finding some of the solutions they need. From adding an elevator, new sound equipment, to an air conditioned ticketing booth in the front, he wants to find solutions that can benefit the theater and the supporting business.
ACT2PV is also exploring options of separating the theater from the bar, and operating the theater as a non-profit (A.C.) but he told the group that was a very long and very involved process that would not happen within the next year.
Immediate Changes:
- Ticket prices are decreasing – The average ticket price for a show last season was $800 pesos. This season it will drop to $700 pesos.
- Use of EventBrite for Ticketing – He said they would be using the EventBrite online ticketing system (like The Palm Cabaret and Bar uses) so that artists will see a much quicker payout and settlement.
- They are now offering table service from Yamada (and you may also order food from there in the Mary Ann’s Ovation Bar)
- New banking and accounting practices are being implemented to ensure both transparency and greater long-term management.
- Cate Valcic has been named as the Donor and Press Liaison. She can be contacted via email at cate@act2pv.com.
- New payroll process in place for Act2 staff.
- New culture of camaraderie, generosity and Community outreach.
A New Era of Entertainment Begins with the Mary Ann’s Ovations Piano Bar
The biggest visual change at ACT2PV comes with the complete redesign of the former Melody Bar into the Mary Ann’s Ovations Piano Bar (named after Mary Ann Runaldue, owner of Unique ATV Tours). Sabella envisions it as “the hub of the city,” offering a comfortable setting to enjoy live music from “PV’s best entertainers.”
Mary Ann’s Ovations Piano Bar, which will have its grand opening on June 16, 2024, features happy hour (starting at 5 p.m.), a Mark Hartman show on Saturdays along with other unique entertainment and special showtimes, culminating in a late-night cabaret bar. You’ll be able to enjoy a full meal from Yamada Japanese Cuisine before the show, making it a one-stop shop for entertainment and food.
And, entertainment schedules and showtimes between The Casa Karma Red Room and Mary Ann’s Ovations Piano Bar will be staggered, allowing guests the opportunity to see more than one great performance in one evening.
Outdoor Terrace Bar and Staggered Showtimes Enhance the Experience
Adding to the outdoor appeal is the new Terrace Bar, which is located on the front of the building overlooking Basilio Badillo. The space will include a full bar, table seating, and a vibrant atmosphere. Open from happy hour onwards, it provides the perfect pre- or post-show hangout for visitors to the Casa Karma Red Room.
Star Power Takes Center Stage
Danny’s Main Stage is transforming into a haven for legendary performers.
The “Broadway Icons!” series brings the likes of Lorna Luft (daughter of Judy Garland), Lilias White (Tony Award winner), John Lloyd Young (Tony Award winner for “Jersey Boys”), and Sam Harris (Motown recording artist) to Puerto Vallarta.
This high-season event (January 10th to March 15th, 2025) promises unforgettable performances you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
More Than Just Broadway: Diverse Entertainment for All Tastes
The Casa Karma Red Room will be offering a “Great American Songbook Series” featuring acclaimed international cabaret artists (artists and dates to be announced).
Feeling a little more adventurous? “Frisky Fridays at ACT2” promises themed nights with drag performances (“Best of Drag” and “It’s Raining Men 2.0”), “LibeRaunchy” (a frisky follies show), cutting-edge alternative performance art, and special entertainment designed to “stimulate, titillate, and start your evening off right” at the Ovations Bar.
Family Fun and Celebrating Local Talent
Looking for some alternative fun besides theater?
ACT2PV has you covered with weekly bingo nights at Mary Ann’s Ovations Bar and special matinee film series at Danny’s Main Stage.
The venue remains committed to showcasing Mexican talent, featuring “fantastic cultural and Mexican National acts” throughout the season.
Shaping the Artistic Future of Puerto Vallarta
Sabella emphasizes the importance of audience participation.
“We urge you to look at these levels of patronage and donorship as your opportunity to shape the artistic life of Puerto Vallarta,” he says. “Stay tuned for upcoming announcements on how to become a patron and contribute to this vibrant artistic hub.”
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