Thomaston Opera House Kicks Off the First Phase of Renovations

Press release

THOMASTON – The Thomaston Opera House recently began its long process of being restored and modernized for the enjoyment of future generations. The start of Phase 1 of the 3-phase project was marked with a kickoff event on June 14, 2024. Many of the past Thomaston Opera House supporters along with board members of the Friends of the Thomaston Opera House, Landmark Community Theatre trustees, Thomaston Opera House Commissioners, Town selectmen and other political dignitaries were in attendance to learn about the efforts, show support for the project and to help promote it to the public.

Phase 1 of the project involves restoring the Opera House's original artwork, including refurbishing the spectacular Romanesque ceiling and the coves between the ceiling and walls. A large stage-accessible elevator for mobility-challenged individuals will be added backstage that will also assist in equipment load in and out. Also included in this phase are updating the dressing areas, green room, and costume department located in the old firehouse area of the building. Finally, electrical, communications, and energy efficient upgrades will be completed in the backstage areas.

Phase 2 of the project will address stage and auditorium renovations. Phase 3 addresses entrances and auxiliary areas of the facility. Plans for these phases and funding are still in the planning stages.

Phase 1 of the project is funded in large part by a 3.5-million-dollar grant from the State of Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development. Additional funding will come from grants, business and individual donations, and fundraising efforts from volunteers.
The Opera House is scheduled to be closed for about 6 months to accommodate the restoration and renovation efforts included in Phase 1. Currently scheduled programming and future productions will be presented off-site in various locations. Landmark’s two summer productions, Wizard of Oz and Mean Girls, are being presented in the Thomaston High School Auditorium. The Thomaston Board of Education and the town of Thomaston have been instrumental in helping to allow these productions to be produced off-site by offering their facilities, along with
custodial supervision, in the town hall and high school. Additional locations are being vetted for the Fall productions.

“The THS auditorium is a good alternative to the Thomaston Opera House,” said, Jeffrey Dunn, Executive Director for Landmark Community Theatre. Dunn points out that the auditorium has similar seating capacity and stage dimensions as the Opera House. The facility is very comfortable with wide seating, nice leg room, AC and decent acoustics. There is a large lobby area and plenty of onsite parking. “We are hopeful that our patrons will continue to support our talented performers and productions while displaced from our home theatre.”

For more information or to purchase tickets please visit our website www.landmarkcommunitytheatre.o... or call the box office at (860) 283-6250.