Ivoryton, CT – July 10th, 2024
Cory Candelet, a performer at the Ivoryton Playhouse, is cherishing his ensemble role in Mystic Pizza: The Musical. Not only is he proud to return to Ivoryton, the site of his first professional acting job, but this production is particularly meaningful as Cory hails from Mystic, Connecticut, where the musical is set. Perhaps most astonishingly, his full-circle journey back to Mystic, both on stage and off, is the remarkable story of his recovery from a broken back just nine months ago.
Growing up in Mystic, Cory became intimately familiar with the iconic pizza place featured in the musical. Initially, on a path to pursue sports and join the Coast Guard, Cory discovered his passion for theater in high school. He later trained at the American Musical Dramatic Academy in New York City after gaining international performance experience with Up With People.
Cory's first professional contract was with the Ivoryton Playhouse in 2017, where he performed in Saturday Night Fever. He has since appeared in various productions, including Grease, A Chorus Line, and The Fantasticks solidifying his presence in the Shoreline theater community.
While on tour with a musical version of The Jungle Book in September 2023, during a day off in Coos Bay, Oregon, Cory lost control of a rented ATV and sailed over the top of a steep dune. Upon impact, his face collided with the handlebars, and his spine was severely compressed. Cory waited 30 minutes for a sand dune ambulance and was then transferred to a local hospital, where it was determined he needed spinal surgery and multiple stitches. He was subsequently moved to Peace Health in Eugene, Oregon, for surgery and intensive care. Remarkably, Cory remained conscious throughout the ordeal. His recovery process involved learning to walk again, managing pain, and adapting to physical limitations, with significant support from his physical therapist and former football coach, Moose Gilbert of Independent Physical Therapy.
Returning to the Ivoryton Playhouse, Cory found a supportive community that helped him regain confidence. His role in Mystic Pizza symbolizes not only his resilience but also his deep connection to his hometown. The support from the cast and crew during his recovery has made his return to the stage particularly meaningful.
Cory's journey is one of resilience and passion. Performing in Mystic Pizza: The Musical at the Ivoryton Playhouse brings his journey full circle, celebrating both his recovery and his deep roots in Mystic, Connecticut. This role marks a significant milestone in his career, underscoring the importance of community and perseverance.
Mystic Pizza is running now until July 28th at Ivoryton Playhouse. Tickets are $60 for adults, $55 for seniors, and $25 for students. Tickets are available online at ivorytonplayhouse.org or by calling the box office at 860.767.7318. The Playhouse is located at 103 Main Street in Ivoryton.
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