More Donations Needed To Save Paper Mill
April 6th, 2007BroadwayWorld.com notes that the New Jersey Star-Ledger reported earlier today that two local real estate companies have come to the temporary rescue of the imperiled Paper Mill Playhouse, which had been in danger of closing its doors as early as today. However, donations from theatre lovers are still very much needed.
Shayne Miller, press director of the well-honored Milburn, NJ theatre, writes: “The donations are pouring in, but we are still not near our plea for 1.5 million…We are only in initial discussions with lending institutions and these things take time…We only have enough cash to cover ONE week of payroll for the theater, meaning we have yet to determine if Seven Brides for Seven Brothers will be able to have its press opening on Sunday, April 15. This theater still may close if contributed income comes to a halt.”
A rally featuring Jersey Boys’ cast members John Lloyd Young and Matthew Scott, along with Michele Ragusa, Judy McLane, Glory Crampton, James Brennan, Nick Corley, Daniel Goldstein, Danette Holden, and Kate Baldwin and the cast of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, to be held on Monday at 7 PM, will continue to raise funds for Paper Mill. In addition, an emergency grant of $300,000 to $400,000 was proposed by two lawmakers from the state legislature. Theatre officials have also applied for a loan from the Economic Development Corporation of Essex County.
Those interested in helping the financially strained theatre may do so by making a tax-deductible contribution. Call (973) 379-3636 or donate online at www.papermill.org.
In addition to the beginnings for two of our Jersey Boys (JLY and Matt Scott) and many other Broadway stars, the Paper Mill Playhouse provides community outreach and many classes, often on nights and weekends, for the community.
On a personal level, my two aunts in Maplewood (almost around the corner from Millburn), both Broadway-goers, were able to enjoy productions at the Paper Mill well into their 80′s, when a trip to NYC was an ordeal for them. Another retired friend took an acting course in her mid-70′s at the Paper Mill, and I had the honor of being her opening night guest in a featured off-Broadway role at 77 years old.
One of my fondest memories of the Paper Mill is going with a group of my college dormmates to see “The Ashes of Mrs. Reasoner” in the early 1970′s, starring Doris Belack, of whom we had become fans watching the soap “One Life to Live” between classes. (Being students, Broadway was a bit expensive.) Of course, we gave Doris a huge ovation when she appeared, and an even larger one when she gave us a wink and a wave. She told us after the show it was the first time she’d ever received entrance applause in a play, so it was a great experience for all of us. (And I think OLTL might still be on the air!)
I’ve met Paper Mill director and JLY-Matt Scott friend and mentor Patrick Parker. We all know what a great and well-deserved ride John has had this last year. Patrick predicts wonderful things to come for Matt as well. He was so proud to have worked with Matt in “Ragtime” at the Paper Mill, where Matt obtained his equity card. He tells me Matt has a beautiful singing voice on par with Daniel Reichard’s, a high compliment indeed.
I’ve seen a portion of the rehearsal of “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers”, slated to being at the Paper Mill April 15. The book has been updated wonderfully for the new millennium, and it’s a production that indeed deserves to go forward. I second the Blog and John Lloyd in urging all JB fans to support this wonderful institution.
Unfortunately, I’m on the road for business this coming week and can’t attend the rally tomorrow. But I’ll be there in spirit wishing Patrick and the Paper Mill the very best in moving toward their goal.
Comment by Howard Tucker — April 8, 2007 @ 10:07 pm