Future Of 'Puppet House' In Branford Comes Into Focus

By Jack Kramer, Correspondent

BRANFORD, CT - It’s been a long, and sometimes legal debate, but it looks like the Legacy Theatre in Stony Creek, or what is better known as the former “Puppet House,” will soon open its doors as a new arts venue.

The Board of Selectmen recently unanimously approved a settlement agreement worked out between the theater owners and neighbors of the theater.

In the words of Branford town attorney William Aniskovich the selectmen’s okay was the “last, local approval” needed for the project to move forward.

Previously the deal had been approved by several other Branford boards, including the Representative Town Meeting.

The agreement includes a clause that gives the theater and four families who will be most impacted by the theater seven parking spaces on Thimble Island Road when the theater is in operation about 150 days a year.

On its website, the owners state: “The idea of turning this historic theater – where Orson Welles used to perform with is Mercury Players – back into a contemporary theatre for actors, directors, designers and writers to create new works and revivals is a reason to applaud, celebrate and support.

“With its breathtaking setting, in such close proximity to New York City

Under the agreement, a no-parking zone will be in effect near the theater from Wednesday to Saturday, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. from March 1 to Oct. 15 and similarly, Wednesday to Saturday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the month of December. Signage will announce the rules.

Under the agreement certain types of events, such as rap, heavy metal, and hard rock concerts, will not be permitted.

The Legacy Theatre group purchased the property, the former Puppet House, over four years ago.

Plans have been in limbo, since, due to the long debate over the use of the site as a music/arts venue.

Photos by Jack Kramer