Old Courthouse Theatre announced
its upcoming 2008/2009 season on April 12th with an
extravagant affair called “Evening of Tremendous Treasures”. Old
Courthouse Theatre volunteers and Board of Directors hosted more than
200 guests for performances, a silent auction, a live auction, comedy,
music, tours, and refreshments, all provided by citizens from Cabarrus
County. “This is what community theatre is about,” said Jennie Bridges,
a member of the Board of Directors, “It’s about involving the community
to build and create something amazing that everyone can be proud of.”
The night began with Whit Whitley,
an accomplished actor, who provided entertainment and comedy. Musical
performances followed by Mark Bargeloh, Tracy Love, and Laura Layton,
who sang, “I Wouldn’t Take Nothing For My Journey Now” from the show:
“Smoke On The Mountain,” “Edelweiss” performed by Rich Stanley from “The
Sound Of Music” and “Blues In The Night” performed by Kim Baysinger from
the show “1940’s Radio Hour”. Prizes were won by audience members who
guessed the correct show which led to the final unveiling of the season
poster by Board President, Mark Bargeloh. Food was provided by Freda
Linker and friends, North Carolina wines were showcased, floral
arrangements by Robert Nipper, and a saxophone ensemble from Piedmont
Prime Time Community Band kept the electricity alive for a silent and
live auction, led by Classic Art Inc. “It’s important to understand that
everyone who made this event happen, volunteered their time and
talents,” remarked Bridges. “We have been pleased by donations from
several merchants in the downtown area, as well as Afton Village, Lowe’s
Motor Speedway, and numerous residents from Cabarrus County. It really
took a village to pull this off.”
Old Courthouse Theatre
originated on May 5, 1976, with the help of Mary Snead Boger. Set for
demolition, the Historic Courthouse was destined to become a parking
lot. Sensing a greater purpose for the courthouse, Mrs. Boger believed
the community needed a theatre and was eventually granted use of the
second floor courtroom for that purpose. The Old Courthouse Theatre has
been credited for sparking the drive that ultimately saved the 1876
courthouse from the wrecker's ball.
The theatre now occupies the old First
Baptist Church building on the corner of Spring and Grove streets in the
Concord historic district, but carries with it a rich tradition of
excellence that has earned its performers numerous awards. “We hold the
bar high and demand the best from our shows and actors,” says Becky
Porter, a member of the Board of Directors, and recipient of the 2007
MTA award for “Outstanding Actress in a Lead Role - Regional”.
The first of an annual event to
raise funds and announce the new season, the event was very successful.
Donations of nearly $3000 were realized, with more than 30 season ticket
packages for the upcoming season sold.
