Theatre using grant to expand services

DOVER-FOXCROFT — USDA Rural Development State Director Virginia Manuel has announced that four Maine organizations in northern Maine have been selected to receive grants — together totaling nearly $213,000 — that will benefit people living in rural communities in a variety of ways. These grants support USDA Rural Development’s designated Great Region, which is comprised of Aroostook, Piscataquis and Washington counties.

Among the grant recipients is the Center Theatre, which has been selected to receive a $33,100 Community Facility Grant. Rural development funds will be used for equipment to provide the theatre with an opportunity to increase capacity by utilizing the stage and event space available at Central Hall. This will allow the theatre to host dances and provide dinner theater activities that cannot be held at the existing facility. Central Hall will also be a dedicated rehearsal space.

“We’re are very excited to receive this funding,” Center Theatre Executive Director Patrick Myers said. “It will support our work with the Maine Highlands Senior Center to finish work on the second floor of Central Hall. This grant will help us purchase curtains, lighting and sound equipment so that it can once again be an asset and gathering place for the community.”

USDA Rural Development State Director Virginia Manuel said, “Each of the USDA Rural Development grants announced today play a vital role in the community they serve. From providing economic development opportunities that will assist the Aroostook Band of Micmac Indians in utilizing valuable Tribal resources, to supporting performing art, agricultural history and vital health and wellness equipment for children, these grants make an important impact on the quality of life for northern Maine citizens.”

The other grant recipients are the Aroostook Band of Micmacs in Presque Isle, Southern Aroostook Agricultural Museum, in Littleton and SAD 27 in Fort Kent.