A proposal calls for a fully reconstructed theater, a new arts and education center, concessions building, courtyard, offices, and on-site housing to accommodate 75 performers and staff.
The Ogunquit Playhouse — which over the years has been the summer theatrical home to stars from Douglas Fairbanks Jr. to Sally Struthers — is proposing a major renovation.
Representatives for the nonprofit Oqunguit Playhouse Foundation met Monday night with the town planning board to share details of the $62 million project, which is still in the early review stage.
The proposal calls for a fully reconstructed theater at the 10 Main St. location. It would add 20 seats to the existing 700-seat capacity. Also new would be an arts-and-education center, concessions building, courtyard, offices and on-site housing — to accommodate 75 performers and staff. The current 280-car parking area would be expanded by seven spaces.
Storied history
The Ogunquit Playhouse welcomes 100,000 patrons annually during its summer performance season and is the largest nonprofit performing arts organization in Maine.
After four years in a downtown garage, the Playhouse opened the current site in 1937. Over the years, it has drawn a long list of stage and screen stars — from Ethel Barrymore to Burgess Meredith to Steve McQueen — reflecting Ogunquit's standing as a summer arts community.
In 1995, Ogunquit Playhouse was listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Meeting the needs of the 21st century
Project organizers said in their proposal that they are "committed to preserving the Playhouse's standing in the theater and coastal Maine community while updating the theater and grounds to meet the needs of the 21st century."
A letter on the foundation’s website announcing a capital campaign said the building is deteriorating and in need of comprehensive rehabilitation.
“There are areas of the building that are genuine concerns during the winter season," the letter said. "Quite simply, if we do not bring the building's infrastructure into the 21st century, Ogunquit Playhouse will not survive.”
Fundraising for the project started in February 2024 and to date has raised 55% of the $62 million goal. Carol Chiavatta, director of marketing and communications for the Playhouse, told Mainebiz that donations have come in from more than 50 members and supporters.
A full site plan review and public hearings will be scheduled before the project can move forward.
Corey Colwell with the land planning firm TFMoran, based in Portsmouth and Bedford, N.H., is working with the foundation on the proposed renovation.
