Almost exactly one year ago, the doors to the beloved Bucks County Playhouse in New Hope, PA were closed, just before the final showings of their annual Christmas Carol.  We are happy to report that the legendary theater will soon reopen thanks to the coordinated effort of the Bridge Street Foundation, Broadway Producer Jed Bernstein, and the Bucks County Playhouse Conservancy founder Peggy McRae.

The acquisition of the property was completed just before the holidays on December 23, 2011. A local landmark that has sat empty since late 2010, Bucks County Playhouse has showcased some of Broadway's most recognizable talent since it opened in 1939. Under the leadership of producing director Jed Bernstein and, most importantly, with support from the local community, the Playhouse will soon return to its former glory. Announcements about future programming plans will be forthcoming early in January.

“We love this area and are excited to be able to bring back the theater,” said Kevin and Sherri Daugherty, founders of the Bridge Street Foundation, in a statement. “There has been a tremendous show of support for this effort by the local community.”

“I am delighted to be able to lend my producing experience to reviving this landmark. I see this project as an opportunity to showcase the kind of impact that great theater can have on a community like New Hope,” said Bernstein.

Separately, Kevin and Sherri Daugherty have acquired the former Playhouse Inn property next to the theater.    Regarding that acquisition, Kevin Daugherty said, “Our interest in the neighboring property is to provide improved waterfront access in a way that is complementary to the Playhouse and is consistent with the Borough's planning goals. Renovation of the building is expected to be a longer term project. The more immediate need is to get the Bucks County Playhouse open in time for the 2012 summer season.”

Read more about the project on http://www.buckscountyplayhouseconservancy.org/.

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