A concert from the past is returning to Marblehead Little Theatre on Friday, Aug. 21.
“The Women We Carry” is an original concert reading performed by Ari Conte that explores family, heritage and the women whose stories have become part of her own.
Originally from Marblehead, Conte is a theater producer and communications strategist based in New York City. She graduated from Marblehead High School in 2011.
Growing up, she enjoyed performing, starring in plays at MLT, and participating in Marblehead A Capella Choir. She studied musical theater and business at Emerson College.
Throughout her career, Conte has worked in media including “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and Netflix’s “Tick Tick… BOOM!” She also worked on Broadway productions “Suffs” and “Gypsy.”
Conte first performed her show at Marblehead Little Theater in 2019 as a full production.
“MLT has always been supportive of me and my work, so it was a great place to share my show at this stage of its development,” Conte said.
Seven years later, Conte is returning with a concert version of the show, featuring new material.
“The Women We Carry” is inspired by Conte’s Italian great-grandmother, Linda, whom she never met.
“It’s a small story, but it doesn’t mean it’s not important. I want to make (my great-grandmother) feel like the protagonist even if she didn’t feel like that in her life,” Conte said.
Women-based stories have always been Conte’s main niche.
“It all started with knowing we don’t get to hear them often,” Conte said.
The performance will feature original text and music, as well as musical theater and traditional Neapolitan selections. Accompanying Conte on piano and vocals are music director Bethany Aiken and Marblehead native Alea Moscone.
Andrew Barnett, the MLT facility manager and technical director, said the theater staff is excited to be a part of Conte’s event.
“For those who do not know Ari already, this is a chance to see someone who is a rising star in the theatre and entertainment industry,” Barnett said.
Conte has not revealed her set list yet, wanting audiences to be surprised.
All proceeds will go towards Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, a nonprofit organization that supports American theaters. Conte said this organization means a lot to her and she has supported it since her college years.
“I really saw how hard they worked during the pandemic even when theaters were shut down,” Conte said.
Along with this one-woman show, Conte said she plans to run in the New York City Marathon in November to raise money for Broadway Cares.
On the day of the show, Conte said she hopes audiences make a personal connection.
“I hope people think about their grandparents and people who came before them,” Conte said.
“It’s something people don’t give enough time to.”
“The Women We Carry” is Friday, Aug. 21, at Marblehead Little Theatre at 7:30 p.m. It is an hour long. Tickets are $30 at mltlive.org. Following the show, there will be a post-show reception, with cookies and prosecco.
