West Hartford Theater Group Earns Major State Support

WEST HARTFORD, CT — A major player in West Hartford's arts scene received major support from the state, the town's legislative delegation announced recently.

State Sen. Derek Slap, D-West Hartford, and State Reps Jillian Gilchrest, Tammy Exum, Kate Farrar, Bobby Gibson, and James Sánchez recently announced the State Bond Commission approved a $100,000 allocation for Playhouse on Park.

The West Hartford-based organization provides community-wide access to theatrical entertainment and the funds will help the playhouse improve its facilities.

“I am thrilled that Playhouse on Park will be receiving this needed infusion of funds,” said Slap. “This fantastic organization brings professional-level theater to the Park Road Community and beyond, and I am grateful to Gov. (Ned) Lamont and the Bond Commission for investing in this much deserving local organization.”

"The Playhouse on Park is an important part of West Hartford and Connecticut's theatre community," said Gilchrest. "I am so happy that our state is recognizing this with an investment in the Playhouse's sustainability and growth!"

“I would like to thank Gov. Lamont and the State Bond Commission for this funding and recognizing the vital part Playhouse on Park plays in the West Hartford community,” added Exum. “I hope this funding will help ensure that the community continues to benefit from the wide range of productions that Playhouse has to offer.”

"Playhouse on Park is beloved to our West Hartford community and is an important part of our region's economy," said Farrar. "I'm excited for the $100,000 on the bond agenda to support their future."

“A robust art scene is a vital part of a thriving community. Playhouse on Park has not only done an excellent job at fostering and growing the artistic pursuits of locally based thespians, they also provide a wonderful variety of quality entertainment,” said Gibson

“This investment is a true win for the arts,” added Sánchez. “It not only enhances the experience for the talented performers and dedicated staff but also ensures the theatre remains a vibrant hub for our community.”

Officials with the theater organization expressed gratitude to the state.

"We are grateful to our legislative delegation and the Governor for recognizing the critical importance of Playhouse on Park’s presence in the Park Road Community and West Hartford,” said Playhouse on Park co-founder and its executive director, Tracy Flater.

"These funds will help us continue to bring professional theater to our community and work toward our goal of purchasing our property and securing our location on Park Road for years to come.”

The State Bond Commission met Dec. 20 and the agenda in full can be found here.

For more information on Playhouse on Park, located at 244 Park Road, and its shows, click on this link.