The Board of trustees at the Academy of Performing Arts in Orleans has begun a drive to raise money for several projects. The cost is projected to be in the millions.
The bulk of the expense is to preserve, restore and expand the 144 year old Academy Playhouse. The Academy’s executive and artistic director, Peter Earle, says the building deserves an upgrade. “The building was built in approximately 1873 and has been serving the community for 144 years.”
The plans include the renovation of the existing building, adding a large addition and basement, creating a room for the construction and storage of sets, and adding state-of-the-art theater technology.
Earle explained that one change is way overdue. “Our theater is on the second floor and for years we’ve had to struggle to get some folks up the stairs and up the walk. We want everyone to be able to participate in the arts and make them accessible to all.”
Aside from the work on the playhouse, the funds raised will be used to renovate its separate school and create an endowment.
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