By Michael Howell
After weathering a lawsuit over the condition of the building it occupies on Main Street in Stevensville, and finally completing the required repairs and improvements imposed by the Town of Stevensville following its own inspection, Stevensville Playhouse wants the community to know that it’s safe to come down and enjoy an evening of theater.
“A lot of people were waiting to see some big cranes come in and lift and replace one wall of the building or something,” said Stevensville Playhouse Board President Susan McCauley. “It’s not going to happen, so we thought we’d better announce to the community that the necessary structural repairs and improvements have been made and they can feel safe attending our performances.”
The key parts of the project have all been completed. The trusses have been reinforced, the roof system has been attached to the concrete wall and anchored through a common wall with the adjoining building. New roofing was installed and some asbestos was removed.
McCauley said that more improvements are in progress and planned than what the structural issues required. She said they are in the process of putting in a new boiler and doing some electrical upgrades including replacement of some wiring and the installation of aisle lighting.
According to McCauley, the Playhouse has raised $90,000 in its efforts to meet the costs, estimated at close to $125,000. She said other grants are in the works and they are looking for donations from downtown businesses as well.
McCauley is directing the next performance scheduled at the Playhouse, a production of “The Neverending Story,” adapted by David Craig from the work of Michael Ende. Show dates are scheduled for December 4, 5, 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 6 and 13 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at Valley Drug, www.stevensvilleplayhouse.org or by calling 777-2722.
