Central western Maine community theaters benefit from anonymous donor

PHOTO: Arielle Ebacher performs tight-wire as theater meets circus in Celebration Barn’s drive-thru production “Just Outside the Window,” in South Paris. (Michael Menes/Celebration Barn photo)

ELLSWORTH — Eight central and western Maine community theaters are among 20 that are benefiting from a $200,000 anonymous donation to the Maine Community Foundation.
“In addition to its emergency response to COVID-19, the Maine Community Foundation and its donors are working to build resiliency in Maine communities,” said MaineCF President and CEO Steve Rowe. “In this case, an anonymous donor has chosen to shine a spotlight on smaller community theaters and how they are a critical part of a community’s identity and creative spirit. We are grateful for the donor’s generosity and vision.”
One of the recipients of the grants is Celebration Barn, in South Paris, which canceled its summer programming because of the pandemic. The theater was able to maintain two part-time staff members and design new summer programming, including outdoor on-site performances, online performance training and circus arts theater classes for children with the money. The theater will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2022.
Other area theaters to get grants are Deertrees Theatre Limited, Harrison; Denmark Arts Center; LA Public Theatre, Lewiston; Lakewood Theatre, Madison; Rangeley Friends of the Performing Arts; The Theater at Monmouth; and Waterville Creates!.