Printer Friendly Version - Essex Foundation Helps Ivoryton Playhouse Step Up in Style and Safety

Ivoryton Playhouse Executive Director Jacqui Hubbard accepts a check from members of The Essex Foundation Board of Directors in front of the under-construction steps. Pictured are board member Herb Clark (left) with Hubbard (front left), board members Cheryl Harger and Strickland Hyde (back), and board members Bruce Glowac and Jay Tonks (right). Photo courtesy of The Essex Foundation

The Essex Foundation has awarded a $15,000 grant to the Ivoryton Playhouse to help fund the design and installation of new steps, handrails, and landing at the front entrance of the theater.

The project was initiated by the non-profit theater company to improve patron safety while keeping within the period styling of the historic 1911 building. The new design features wider, illuminated steps with handrails leading up to each side of the double doors. Installation is expected to be completed before the end of the year.

“We are so incredibly grateful to the Essex Foundation for making this important work possible,” said Jacqui Hubbard, the Playhouse’s Executive Director. “Maintaining a historic building and keeping it safe is a constant battle and moving target. We have around 30,000 people in and out of our front doors every year and their safety is utmost in our minds. The new stairs will make a visit to the Ivoryton Playhouse so much safer and more enjoyable.”

Bruce Glowac, president of The Essex Foundation, also had some comments on the project.

“The Playhouse is a local and state treasure,” Glowac said. “We are happy to play a small, supporting role in improving access to the building while maintaining its architectural style.”

The Essex Foundation, Inc., is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to making a difference in the lives of Essex residents by providing funding for needs not met by other organizations or sources. The Foundation relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and other community groups to fund special community projects and needs that benefit Essex residents. The Foundation’s Matching Gift Challenge for the Essex Veterans Memorial Hall expansion project is also in its final phase, serving as another example of the organization’s efforts to support local initiatives.

For info, visit www.theessexfoundation.org or send an email to contact@theessexfoundation.org.