Havre de Grace Opera House Foundation Passes $1 Million Mark

The Havre de Grace Opera House Foundation has raised more than $1 million toward renovating the historic building on Union Avenue, the organization announced this week.

Since 1871, the opera house has been a part of the community, with functions ranging from a theater to City Hall headquarters to a public school.

"The Havre de Grace Opera House is not only significant historically, but also has a special place in the hearts and memories of many throughout the town and the whole of Harford County," Delegate Mary-Dulany James said Tuesday at a celebration of the fundraising milestone.

In its current form, the historic building is underutilized and poses safety hazards, according to the city.

The renovation project involves upgrading utilities as well as sound and lighting infrastructure; increasing the capacity of the theater; renovating the rehearsal space and dressing rooms; adding a first-floor box office and mixed-use space for the arts and business communities; and making the building compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, according to state documents.

Funding so far has come in the following forms:

• $200,000 Community Legacy Grant from the Department of Housing and Community Development
• $250,000 state of Maryland bond, bill sponsored by James in 2013 session
• $50,000 state of Maryland bond, bill sponsored by James in 2014 session
  
• $250,000 from Harford County, legislation supported by County Executive David Craig and County Councilwoman Mary Ann Lisanti
• $250,000 from city of Havre de Grace

• HdG Opera House Project Awarded $250K State Grant
• HdG Kicks Off Opera House Renovation Fundraising Campaign
• State, City, County Officials Fill In Opera House Fundraising Thermometer