The Sharon Playhouse is seeking financial support for our capital project, the “Pave the Way” Campaign. This project involves expanding and paving a sustainable, green parking lot with an environmentally responsible storm-drainage system and dedicated green spaces using native plantings. The current parking area is unpaved, rough to traverse, and with no designated parking; it does not adequately accommodate the number of cars visiting the Playhouse. Further, the unpaved lot lacks subsurface drainage piping, creating adverse sheet flow conditions–inundating our septic fields, creating backed-up sewer and water-pooling issues, muddy conditions, and serious pothole problems.

The project will transform the current underutilized and problematic unpaved lot into a well-organized, aesthetically pleasing, sustainable space. The new green parking lot will effectively reduce the volume of stormwater runoff. This will prevent water pooling, reduce flooding risks, and protect the surrounding infrastructure. Installing an environmentally responsible storm-drainage system will address the current issues of sheet flow, and it will ensure proper water management, preventing erosion and maintaining soil integrity. The use of native plantings in the green spaces will soak up and filter water, promote local biodiversity, support native wildlife, and reduce the need for water and maintenance compared to non-native species. The planting of large canopy trees will shade the parking lot to reduce urban heat island effect and provide shade for visitors. This natural landscaping approach is a vital component of green parking lots, enhancing the environmental quality of the area. The plants will also beautify the area around our professional theater, elevating the experience for visitors. This renovation project will not only improve the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the lot, but it will also promote responsible land use, aligning with modern environmental standards. We are seeking to Pave the Way to a sustainable future for the environment and for the theater.

Capital Improvement Cost: $350,000

Each year, we welcome thousands of patrons to productions that consistently utilize the full capacity of the auditorium. Our lobby and restroom facilities do not adequately serve the crowds. We seek to address several key challenges in our physical infrastructure while aligning with our core values of inclusivity and service excellence, by expanding our restroom facilities, reorganizing the layout of the Mainstage lobby, and renovating its box office.

In April, 2024, we added a fresh new coat of paint, installed new toilets and sinks, and installed a new water heater tank with a copper piping system. In October, 2024, we will add an all-gender restroom, and expand the facilities by increasing the number of toilets from 6 to 11,  while ensuring that all facilities are ADA compliant, which will provide a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all patrons, regardless of gender identity or physical abilities. Additionally, we will redesign the layout of the theater lobby and install a new box office with one ADA-compliant ticket window. This will simplify procedures, create a more efficient traffic flow, and elevate the experience for our audience, ensuring their visits are more pleasant and hassle-free. 

Capital Improvement Cost: $150,000