Franklin Square Society
Continue the legacy of our theatre’s founders by joining the Franklin Square Society.
Make every night at the theatre a memorable event. We invite FSS members to gather with friends, colleagues and guests in the newly restored Franklin Square Salon.
What is the Franklin Square Society?
The Franklin Square Society (FSS) is a special category of membership that recognizes those generous supporters who make annual contributions of $1,500 or more. FSS members provide a core of philanthropic support that:
- Helps to maintain our historic theatre
- Supports school partnerships that deepen learning through the arts
- Provides need-based conservatory scholarships
- Underwrites special productions like A Christmas Carol Reimagined
In return, we gratefully offer FSS members benefits that include complimentary parking for most performances, access to the historic Franklin Square Salon before performances and during intermission, and a dedicated ticketing hotline for special requests.
Why Join the Franklin Square Society?
- Show your support for The Hanover Theatre and for the performing arts in Central MA
- First opportunity to buy tickets for most non-Broadway touring productions
- Access to the best available seats via FSS hotline or email
- Free onsite parking in Myrtle St lot behind the theatre for most main stage shows
Producer Circle Benefits
Producer Circle ($1,500 to $2,499) donors receive the following member benefits:
- Access to Franklin Square Salon and complimentary bar service for main stage shows
- Discounts at local restaurants and business partners
- Automatic entry into special drawings for tickets to upcoming shows
- Free admission to Historic & Architectural Tours
- Free admission to Wurlitzer Organ Concerts
- Recognition in our Broadway Series program booklets
- Four (4) complimentary tickets to each of our silent film events
- Six (6) guest passes for free onsite parking and access to the Franklin Square Salon with complimentary bar service
- Invitation to A Christmas Carol dress rehearsal
- Dedicated entrance and event check-in at The Hanover Theatre
- Invitation to annual donor recognition night
- Special insider FSS e-newsletter, “Betty’s Buzz”
- Two (2) complimentary tickets to preview performances or invited dress rehearsals for THT Repertory (THT Rep) productions
- Validated parking at Federal Square Garage for THT Rep productions
Director Circle Benefits
Director Circle ($2,500 to $4,999) donors receive the above benefits, plus:
- Six (6) additional Franklin Square Salon guest passes
- Employee discount program (corporate members only)
- 25% discount on rental of function spaces
Celebrity Circle Benefits
Celebrity Circle ($5,000 to $9,999) donors receive the above benefits, plus:
- Eight (8) additional Franklin Square Salon guest passes
- Two (2) complimentary tickets to a single performance of each THT Rep show
Encore Circle Benefits
Encore Circle ($10,000+) donors receive the above benefits, plus:
- Ten (10) additional Franklin Square Salon guest passes
The Salon’s Historical and Economic Impact
The Story Behind the Franklin Square Salon
While the main lobby and auditorium of The Hanover Theatre recreate the majestic 1926 Thomas Lamb designs for Poli’s Palace, one architectural link remains to the original 1904 Franklin Square Theatre: the façade and the elegant Franklin Square Salon.
The Impact of Its Discovery
The discovery of the original 1904 façade and the Salon during the restoration changed the trajectory of the project dramatically. This piece of architectural history entitled the theatre to significant federal tax credits for historic preservation, underwriting the restoration efforts and leading to multiple historic preservation awards. Today, the entire structure stands as a celebration of Worcester’s cultural history and vibrant destination where all are welcome to experience the transformative power of the arts.
Continuing Our Founders’ Legacy
The Hanover Theatre was made possible by the extraordinary vision of our founders and the generosity of an entire community. Franklin Square Society members continue that legacy of community support today.
Franklin Square Society Team
- Linda Rosenlund, Vice President of Advancement
- Nel Lazour, Director of Development
- Veronica Bailey, Development Operations Manager
- Betty Blute, Stewardship and Membership Officer
- Karen Cavan, FSS Salon Maître d’
- Maureen Hardy, FSS Salon Maître d’
- Dale Stafford, FSS Salon Maître d’
Join or Renew Today
Become a Franklin Square Society member today to show your support for The Hanover Theatre and your commitment to the performing arts.