Music Legend Gives 'Substantial' Gift To Bedford Playhouse

BEDFORD, NY — A cultural arts center will be funded in Bedford thanks to a substantial pledge from a music industry legend. The funding will come from five-time Grammy award-winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Clive Davis and will establish the Clive Davis Arts Center at Bedford Playhouse.

“Clive Davis is a living legend in the music industry,” said Board Chairwoman Sarah Long. “We are thrilled to have him engaged in this project in such a meaningful way. His wisdom, creativity and guidance will be invaluable.”

Davis is credited with discovering some of music’s biggest stars, including Janis Joplin, Bruce Springsteen, Carlos Santana, Aerosmith, Billy Joel, Earth, Wind & Fire, Whitney Houston, and Alicia Keys.

As part of this gift, the amount of which will not be disclosed at the present time, the 40-seat theater of the cafe on the first floor will be named “The Clive Davis Theater,” and will be know as “The Clive,” according to a spokeswoman.

A new, recently approved exterior sign outside the theater will read “Bedford Playhouse, home of the Clive Davis Arts Center.” In light of the building’s historic significance, the existing sign will be restored and moved higher up on the front facade of the building.

Davis, who lives in northern Westchester, said he was thrilled to support the creation of the new playhouse and its new arts center.

“I love this community and I strongly endorse the expanded mission of the playhouse,” he said. “This all seems like a perfect fit, and I can hardly wait for it to open.”

Organizers said the playhouse plans a partial opening later in the spring, involving operating just the downstairs portion of the new facility, including the main theater and concessions for weekends only.

The full opening is projected for later in 2018.

Photo caption: From left, founder John Farr, Clive Davis, Board Chairwoman Sarah Long. Photo credit: Submitted.