Jazz music and a crowd filled downtown Worcester, Wednesday for the unveiling of the new outdoor stage outside of the Hanover Theater and the rededication of the Francis R. Carroll Plaza.
The plaza originally began construction in 2019, but faces numerous delays during the pandemic. Still unfinished two years after its original completion date, the city spent $3.5 million for its construction.
“This has been a long time coming and we’re all extremely excited for today.” Hanover Theater President and CEO Troy Siebels told This Week In Worcester. “It feels like a dream come true to see this space finally ready to be used.”
The ceremony included live music courtesy of the Stoptime Revue and remarks from local officials, including Mayor Joe Petty and City Manager Eric Batista. Both honored Francis R. Carroll, the 88-year-old Korean War Vet and philanthropist the plaza was rededicated to.
“It’s an honor to name the new plaza after Frank Carroll,” said City Manager Eric Batista. “Frank is a true Worcester hero, someone who embodies the humanitarian and entrepreneurial spirit of the City. Frank’s impact on Worcester is immeasurable and we thank him for his years of service to the residents of our City and for his forward-thinking to improve our Downtown neighborhood.”
A number of free events have been scheduled to be held at the Hanover Theatre’s Bank of America Stage, located inside the plaza. Bank of America’s charitable foundation awarded a $250,000 grant to support the plaza and help revitalize the theater district.
The free plaza events planned this summer include:
- July 26 – Noon
- Lunchtime Concert Series featuring Occasional Brass and Strings
- August 2 – Noon
- Lunchtime Concert Series featuring Odaiko New England
- August 9 – Noon
- Lunchtime Concert Series featuring Becky Bass
- August 16 – Noon
- Lunchtime Concert Series featuring Boston’s Erin Og
- August 23 – Noon
- Lunchtime Concert Series featuring Rachel Sumner
- August 30 – Noon
- Lunchtime Concert Series featuring Dan Gabel & Kim Hawkey Songbook Duo
- September 9 – 6:30 PM
- 15th Anniversary Plaza Party & Season Kick-Off
See the full rededication ceremony, below:
Video footage courtesy of Manny Jae Media.
