History
For many years, The Manor Club had a Drama Section that performed for and exclusively by its members, featuring productions like The Importance of Being Earnest, Blithe Spirit, The Man on the Floor, Company, and Golden Girls. The club also invited professional children’s theatre groups to present shows such as Aesop’s Fables and magic acts.
Origins and Formation
In 2022 TMC members Loretta Illustrato and Mauro Contrastano presented a proposal to The Manor Club’s Board of Directors to establish a Community Theatre – The Manor Club Theatre (TMCT). Their vision was to create a dedicated group that would regularly stage well-known theatrical works, foster greater community involvement and nurture artistic growth and enjoyment for people of all ages in the community.
Early Productions and Development
TMCT’s first season in 2023 was a short but memorable one, launching with two productions: Lovers and Other Strangers and Night of January 16 th . The momentum continued into the 2023–2024 season with well-received performances of Plaza Suite and The Heiress.
Recent Seasons and Achievements
TMCT continued its impressive growth throughout the 2024–2025 season, presenting two standout productions: Steel Magnolias and Amadeus. Amadeus earned acclaim and secured five Broadway World Awards (Regional Rockland/Westchester) for Best Play, Best Ensemble, Best Actor in a play, Best Supporting Actor in a play, and Best Sound Design for play or musical, reflecting the dedication and talent of the TMCT team. Building on this success, the 2025–2026
season began with an enthusiastically received performance of Sylvia. As the season progresses, TMCT is currently captivating audiences with its current production of Cahoots.
Ongoing Recognition and Future Prospects
In its relatively short history, The Manor Club Theatre has been recognized for outstanding quality of its productions. In 2025, Pelham Fringe was established to provide a Second Stage dedicated to supporting actors, playwrights, and directors in the development of new works and creative endeavors.
TMCT and Pelham Fringe are excited about the future and remain dedicated to delivering outstanding performances at the historic Manor Club Theatre.