A benign madness?
With shakes of hands and the blessing of the building’s owner, I will be taking over management of the Hooker-Dunham Theater as of May 15. (I don’t have control over the website yet, so the site out there is the current management’s site.)
I’m taking this on because I think the theater itself is a marvelous asset to the town of Brattleboro, one that can serve many people’s needs. It’s done that for a long time by being open to be rented. I will certainly continue this fundamental structure.
I am not taking this on as Artistic Director. I am managing the space. I am giving my time to this. If a miracle happens and the theater earns more than it costs to run, I solemnly promise to put that money back into the theater. The theater is not currently fully accessible. Perhaps, if the right lights shine on this cavern of a theater , it will one day be safely accessible to all. That is a goal.
My wildest dreams?
That some combination of actor and directors will take root in the theater.
That video artists might find it an interesting space to work with.
That a group or groups of musicians might find it a nice place to play.
That people living around Brattleboro or coming into town will think: I wonder what’s at the Hooker-Dunham tonight?
That it will be a place where performers of all kinds will feel they have the opportunity to stretch their legs and try their wings.
That a few New Wave or Jim Jarmusch or Film Noir or whatever film fanatics will find a comfortable home.
That we’ll have a kind of playground for myself and others who enjoy a stage — or a seat in audience — a space where we can explore whatever we’d like to explore…
…and see what we come up with.
I won’t bore you with my fears. You could probably imagine them easily enough.
I’ve committed myself for giving it a go for a year.
If you’ve never seen the Hooker-Dunham, there are pictures of it on its website.
For some additional thoughts about community theater, check out these essays:
Jon, if anyone can make this happen, it’s you! Best of luck!
May you and all those who use the Hooker Dunham in the future have fun and success!
I might have just the plays for you…Kali Quinn now has two amazing pieces that go together. More later.
Rupa
Nice idea. I hope it goes well for you and our theater community. Mike
How about some Burlesque ?? Contact them and see if Hooker-Dunham could become a venue !!!!
http://www.vermontburlesquefestival.com/Vermont_Burlesque_Festival_Home_Page.html