BERWICK, ME —
As they tie up the loose ends of their 2010 season, the Hackmatack Playhouse is beginning to plan for the summer of 2011: their 40th year!
It was 40 years ago this winter that Producer Michael Guptill and his father, along with many other volunteers, cleaned out the hay, cemented the floor, installed the seats and built the stage that would become the Hackmatack Playhouse.
The mission was to create a summer home for high caliber, live theater entertainment and education in a relaxed country setting. Then, as now, they did not rely on government and foundation monies, but rather on the generosity and support of patrons and local business.
And the Playhouse is in need. Their original lighting system consisted of tin can stage lights - some of which you can still see used above the audience seats - but they want to update to a more contemporary and efficient lighting system. Also on the to-do list are the installation of hot water in their bathrooms, and a thorough repainting of the chipping and peeling barn.
Many audience members who love the rustic and endearing charm of Hackmatack have asked them not to change a thing, but the proposed upgrades are clearly necessities as the Hackmatack Playhouse move forward into their big 4-0. Despite the changes, they promise never to change their style!
The Hackmatack Playhouse is accepting 40th Birthday donations in the suggested amounts of $40, $400, and $4,000, but any amount is greatly appreciated.
Donations can be made by check or online by visiting their secure donations page.
For more information, visit www.hackmatack.org.
Photo caption: Artwork by Dean Diggins, depicting the Hackmatack Playhouse in Berwick, Maine. (Courtesy photo)
As they tie up the loose ends of their 2010 season, the Hackmatack Playhouse is beginning to plan for the summer of 2011: their 40th year!
It was 40 years ago this winter that Producer Michael Guptill and his father, along with many other volunteers, cleaned out the hay, cemented the floor, installed the seats and built the stage that would become the Hackmatack Playhouse.
The mission was to create a summer home for high caliber, live theater entertainment and education in a relaxed country setting. Then, as now, they did not rely on government and foundation monies, but rather on the generosity and support of patrons and local business.
And the Playhouse is in need. Their original lighting system consisted of tin can stage lights - some of which you can still see used above the audience seats - but they want to update to a more contemporary and efficient lighting system. Also on the to-do list are the installation of hot water in their bathrooms, and a thorough repainting of the chipping and peeling barn.
Many audience members who love the rustic and endearing charm of Hackmatack have asked them not to change a thing, but the proposed upgrades are clearly necessities as the Hackmatack Playhouse move forward into their big 4-0. Despite the changes, they promise never to change their style!
The Hackmatack Playhouse is accepting 40th Birthday donations in the suggested amounts of $40, $400, and $4,000, but any amount is greatly appreciated.
Donations can be made by check or online by visiting their secure donations page.
For more information, visit www.hackmatack.org.
Photo caption: Artwork by Dean Diggins, depicting the Hackmatack Playhouse in Berwick, Maine. (Courtesy photo)
