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GreaterUpperValley.com

New London Barn Playhouse Starts Renovations

Apr 19, 2021 04:22PM ● By Virginia Dean

Photo from New London Barn Playhouse Facebook Page.

Despite being the oldest continuously operating summer theater in New Hampshire which has gained its inclusion in the state’s Register of Historic Places, the New London Barn Playhouse  is on the verge of putting on a new face along with an improved patron experience.

A new indoor scene shop will provide a needed quality workspace with high ceilings, air conditioning, ventilation, and new equipment – eliminating outdoor construction. New rehearsal space eliminating the need to travel back and forth to Colby-Sawyer College places actors closer to dining and production staff. A compression floor for dancers will reduce fatigue and injuries. Expansion of the costume shop will provide more space, additional storage, and improved work conditions. Additional dressing rooms will accommodate all actors, and additional office space will be available for production meetings and improved privacy.

Restrooms will be relocated to the porch level for convenience, and additional restrooms on the lower level will double restroom capacity. Porch expansion will provide more space to socialize safely away from the Main Street and protection from inclement weather. There will be a new Center for Artistic Development to provide a significant opportunity for youth and adult classes, camps, seminars, and other activities. Box Office relocation will improve patron customer service. The parking lot will be modified to make entering/exiting easier and provide accessible parking close to the building. The addition of an elevator will improve access from the parking lot to the porch. A landscaped courtyard will allow for informal gatherings and socializing.

The New London Barn Playhouse is an important cultural resource for the community. It attracts and retains the best actors, designers, musicians, directors, and production staff with its high-quality facilities. Its strong reputation is built on producing a superior and award-winning theater. It is one of the most cherished and historic theaters in the country, and to ensure its maintenance and preservation, a Board Restricted Preservation Fund has been established for sustained excellence. The Barn is a regional theater and has won numerous awards.

For further information or to make a donation, contact the New London Barn Playhouse, 84 Main Street, New London, NH  03257 or 603-526-6710.

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