New Avon Theater Group Seeks Volunteers To Make Shows Go On

Playhouse 44 in Avon

AVON/WEST HARTFORD — Organizers of a new theater group to be based out of Avon with performances in West Hartford are looking for volunteers to help.

Playhouse 44 is hoping to start performances next spring, but it needs some volunteers to get the operation off the ground.

The leader of the effort admitted this week that progress creating Avon's foray into community theater is slow, but moving forward.

"As sweet and adorable as they were, Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney had no idea that declaring 'Hey kids, let's put on a show!' is not as easy as it sounds," said Avon resident Joel Samberg, president of the board of directors of Playhouse 44. "Well, maybe back then it was. Today? Not so much. Which is why it's taken longer than any of us would have preferred to get to this point. Forms, contracts, agreements, bylaws, officers, committees, play submissions, plans... It's a long, long list."

Samberg said Playhouse 44 is now incorporated, has its bylaws in place, has applied for its not-for-profit tax status, and has partnered with the Renbrook School on Route 44 in West Hartford to use its small theater as a performance space.

He said "to get a jump on some important functions, the group is putting out the word for skilled volunteers to come on board."

According to Samberg, Playhouse 44 is looking to show a series of 10-minute plays next spring.

He said anyone who has a desire to direct one or two of them to get in touch.

In addition, the group is seeking people who have an interest in fundraising activities and public relations.

Committees are being formed now and a skilled digital graphic artist is also being sought.

Anyone interested in any of these important functions is invited to send an email to AvonPlayhouse44@gmail.com.