Schoolhouse Arts Center Gives Community Theater Greater Presence in Sebago Lakes Region
July 16th, 2010 categories: Sebago Lakes Region
Actors rehearse at Schoolhouse Arts Center
Just up the road from Sebago Lake is the Schoolhouse Arts Center at 14 Richville Road in Standish. The arts center is located in the former Standish High School.
In 1988 Hank and Nancy Beebe formed a community theater group and sought non-profit status. The mission was “To encourage individual growth and a spirit of community through participation in the arts.” In 1994, they purchased the old high school. Today, the basement is home to a 120-seat performance space. A Black Box Theater seats 50. The 1st and 2nd floors provide classrooms and meeting space. An added wing is home to a first floor dance studio and 2nd floor art room.
Though this is no longer a public school per se, the education program is “dedicated to individual growth for the student in theater.” Instruction is available in both visual and performing arts through group classes, plus private and semi-private lessons. For the younger set, after school classes are available during the school year. They may also participate in summer camps and workshops.
During the 2010 season, the community theater schedule includes Grease, West Side Story, Night Sky and Miracle on 34th Street. Some other performances by the in-house theater groups, Incredible Drama Kids and Obsessive Comedy Disorder include The Property Known as Garland, The Packway Handle Band, Aladdin Jr. and Hamlet.
Jerry Walker, who will direct Night Sky, was Director of Performing Arts at Sterns High School in Millinocket and the Oxford Hills Band Director for many years. He’s been in show biz since fifth grade, when he played Farmer McGregor in the class production of Peter Rabbit. Now retired, he averages directing three shows a year, most recently Hello, Dolly! for Lake Region Community Theatre. Within the last year, Jerry directed The Odd Couple (female version) and a series of One Acts, including one that he wrote and acted in, at Schoolhouse Arts Center. As he works with a cast, his belly laugh explodes frequently and he’s quick to remind performers, “We might as well enjoy this.”
If you want to see a show at Schoolhouse Arts Center, contact the Box Office at 207.642.3743. The space is also available to rent for your event or organization.
The Schoolhouse Arts Center has given new life to an old building and community theater a greater presence in the Sebago Lakes Region. For Broadway shows with local flavor, you should make this part of your summer scene. And for more scenery, check out the lakefront properties in the area.
Tom - MrLakefront
