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WILTON — The construction goal for Phase I of the Western Maine Play Museum renovation is near completion as the project nears its first-tier fundraising goal, organizers have announced. The museum plans events, including a Music Together class at the end of the month and Family Dance in May, to add to the success of the recent Spring Gala, Lori Lewis, vice president, said in a news release.
The museum, on Main Street, is about $12,000 away from the initial goal of $500,000 to complete Phase I of the building reconstruction “thanks to the hard work and dedication of so many supporters,” Lewis said.
Phase I, which organizers say they hope will open later this year, comprises the main part of the house, featuring a Nature Room, a Smart Technology Room, a Trains Room, a Magnet Room, a working kitchen for food labs and party preparation, a Construction Room, an Invention Room and many more areas for hands-on interactive learning through play.
Fundraising will continue to meet the final goal of $700,000 to complete Phase II of the project, which is the reconstruction of the carriage house, which will become the future Play Village, the release said. The area will feature “businesses” including a garage, a restaurant, a grocery store, a vet/doctor’s office, a costume shop, a puppet theater, a stage for children’s performances and for guest speakers, a climbing wall and more.
The board’s grant writers have been regularly submitting grants, but once the museum is open, WMPM is eligible for many more grant opportunities, Lewis said. The Experience Auction Spring Gala, where supporters could bid for the chance to win a variety of experiences donated by area businesses, including ski passes, vacation time at local camps, spa treatments, special pet pampering, and many more, raised $8,000.
The Music Together event, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Friday, April 28, will feature Carla Miller, of Mt. Blue Music Together, with music and movement for children from infant to age 6 and their caregivers. The will be held at Cushing Elementary School. Suggested donation is $10 per family, with all proceeds going to the museum.
For information, call Miller at 778-9983. A Family Dance with a Hawaiian theme is scheduled for May 6 at the Granary. Dan Ryder will DJ the event, and there will be snacks and activities available for children. Cost for the event will be $5 per person, $15 for a family of four with $5 for each additional family member.
For information, contact Jessica Lewis, 207-491-649 or email inchbyinch.maine@gmail.com. For more on the museum, go to www.westernmaineplay.org
