Saturday, October 31st, 2026 | 7:30pm
Sunday, November 1st, 2026 | 3:00PM
Umstattd Hall | Zimmermann Symphony Center
2331 17th St. NW
Canton, OH 44708
DESCRIPTION
The Canton Symphony Orchestra joins forces with the Players Guild of Canton for a symphonic staging of Jekyll & Hyde. We are excited to share that this concert will be presented over Halloween weekend!
Featuring a score by Frank Wildhorn and a book by Leslie Bricusse, this concert version brings Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic story to life. At its center is Dr. Henry Jekyll, whose pursuit of scientific discovery gives way to something far more dangerous as he unleashes the duality within himself. The result is a story that confronts the tension between ambition and morality, and the fragile line between who we are and who we allow ourselves to become.
Led by guest conductor Doug Droste, the full orchestra will join a cast of outstanding regional performers from The Players Guild directed by Joy Ellis.
TICKETS
$45 / $55 / $65 / $80
Includes fees. Additional $2 to mail tickets.
Veterans, First Responders, Healthcare Workers, & Educators: 20% off
SNAP & Medicaid Recipients: 20% off
Groups of 10 or more: 20% off
Subscribers: additional tickets 20% off
*Must call to redeem discounted tickets
Box Office: 330-452-2094
boxoffice@cantonsymphony.org
Hotel Accomodations
The Canton Symphony Orchestra is a proud partner of Embassy Suites by Hilton at the Akron-Canton Airport, who have offered CSO patrons an exclusive rate to book rooms attending our concerts from out of town. To take advantage of this special offer, please click the link below or the image above. The rate is $135/night!
7883 Freedom Ave NW, North Canton, OH 44720 | (330) 305-0500
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT
Doug Droste, Conductor
Conductor Douglas Droste is recognized as possessing “obvious joy” for making music and a “sure sense of timing” when on the podium. Those under his baton routinely acknowledge his in-depth interpretations, keen sense of communication, and personable ability to empower musicians.
Droste’s guest conducting appearances include the INSO-Lviv Symphony Orchestra (Ukraine), and the orchestras of Kansas City, Indianapolis, Columbus, Canton, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Midland-Odessa, Fox Valley (IL), Chappaqua (NY), and the Amarillo Virtuosi. Equally at home in the pit, he has conducted over 30 productions of opera, ballet, and musical theatre. Droste has also led eclectic shows with artists such as Black Violin, Ben Folds, The Flaming Lips, Pink Martini, Michael Cavanaugh, Time for Three, Christian Howes, and Disney’s All-American College Orchestra Alumni, among others. He previously served as Artistic Director of the Muncie Symphony Orchestra, where he was praised for dynamic performances, innovative programming, and his rapport with musicians and community. | LEARN MORE
Joy Ellis, Director
Joy Ellis is a talented and passionate actor known for her dynamic range and captivating stage presence. With a background in contemporary theater, Joy has brought to life a diverse array of characters in productions such as Memphis, Ragtime, and Sister Act. She has a natural ability to connect with audiences, drawing them into the story and leaving a lasting impression. Joy‘s dedication to her craft is evident in her performances, as she continually seeks to challenge herself and grow as an artist.Â
Now stepping into the role of director, Joy brings her unique vision and understanding of theater to the forefront, guiding productions with creativity and precision. She is also the founder of Joylife Talent Development Group, where she coaches voice and acting, helping aspiring performers to hone their skills and realize their potential. Offstage, Joy is an advocate for the arts, actively involved in community theater initiatives and educational programs aimed at fostering a love for performing arts in young people. Joy is grateful for the opportunity to work in collaboration with the Players Guild Theater and the Canton Symphony Orchestra.
THE PLAYERS GUILD
The Players Guild Theatre, founded in 1932 by Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Truxton, is one of the nation’s oldest continually operating theatres. Initially performing at Lincoln High School, the Guild moved in 1942 to the Coach House of the Case Mansion, thanks to a generous arrangement with Frederick Preyer and the Canton Art Institute.
By 1970, the Guild had outgrown the Coach House and moved into a new, fully equipped theatre in the Cultural Center for the Arts, opening with Mame in 1971. In 2022, the Guild relocated to the Mary J. Timken stage in the Fine Arts Building at Kent State University at Stark, debuting with Million Dollar Quartet.
Over its history, the Guild has presented over 600 productions to more than 2 million people. Today, it is led by a full-time professional staff and remains dedicated to providing world-class performances and community outreach. | LEARN MORE
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