Rendering №7

The article published on the website of the newspaper “The New York Times” on March 8, 2013 is headlined “Curtains, and Hope for Renewal, Going Up”. The article reports at length that this month, after more than 25 years, the Suffolk Theater at 118 East Main Street is again open for business, transformed into a performing arts center that some see as the anchor for a downtown revival.

Speaking of this situation it is necessary to point out that the theater’s executive director, Mr. Spiotto recently showed a visitor around the theater days before it reopened last weekend with a gala party. In this respect it is worthwhile mentioning the fact that the theater’s five-year overhaul included the restoration of original woodwork, wall sconces, fluted pilasters and stained-glass chandeliers. Besides, the old, moldy seats have been replaced, for now, with cabaret-style tables and chairs that can accommodate about 500 people. Moreover, according to Mr. Spiotto permanent theater-style seating was rejected to have flexible space.

Analyzing the situation, it is necessary to note that the theater’s refurbishing has been the project of Bob Castaldi, a contractor who specializes in historical restorations, who along with his wife, Dianne, bought the property from the town in 2005 for $707,000. It’s a well-known fact that the restoration began, but then stalled for years, partly because of litigation that was resolved in 2010; work resumed two and a half years ago according to Mr. Castaldi.

Giving appraisal to the situation, it is necessary to emphasize that now it is up to Mr. Spiotto to create programming that will bring in the crowds. In this connection it is necessary to mention that the March lineup indicates a broad mix of entertainment, including additional tribute shows to figures like Lawrence Welk, James Taylor and Nat King Cole, different concerts and other events with the tickets cost from $10 to $50. There is a general feeling to believe that the theater will be the centerpiece of a newly energized downtown business district. Moreover, there are signs that the Suffolk Theater is the destination which can revitalize Main Street to open new restaurants and shops.

The article concludes by saying that the theater has already influenced the street to revive with the opening of the Blue Duck Bakery Cafe. It’s an open secret that with locations in Southampton and Southold, the artisanal bakery recently opened a Riverhead branch at 309 East Main Street, with an eye toward the theater nearby. Besides, it was revealed that the new store even features “an Art Deco type of décor,” according to the owner the company Nancy Kouris, who wanted to connect them to the theater. As for me, I think that it is great that this theater is open again for the public. More and more people will become familiar with art and theatrical performances. In addition, the theater will also be the centerpiece of a newly energized downtown business district, helping to develop the town’s infrastructure.