Ancram Opera House is becoming Ancram Center for the Arts, announced co-directors Paul Ricciardi and Jeffrey Mousseau and board President Cathy Redlich at a community open house Saturday, Nov. 25.
“Paul and Jeff’s vision was never just about producing theater; it was about creating a space where storytelling in all its forms — from plays to music to personal narratives — could enrich and connect a community,” said Redlich in her remarks.
“As it has grown, Ancram Opera House’s offerings to the public have kept pace, with free workshops, programs, and events. The new name, Ancram Center for the Arts, not only captures the breadth, depth and creativity of its diverse programs but also serves as an umbrella for the Center’s future growth.”
Mousseau said, “The change aligns our identity more closely with our vibrant array of performances and community events.”
He also described the team’s vision for the new Annex building:
“Our new campus will comprise the existing Ancram Opera House building, with accessibility upgrades, and a recently acquired neighboring house, built in the 1780s, that we’re calling The Annex. Once rehabilitated, The Annex will provide much-needed space to house interns and guest artists, as well as space for the community programs that are core to our vision.”
The Annex will provide space for workshops in playwriting and storytelling for local adults.
The Annex community room will also be put to use for the storytelling workshops that Ricciardi created for fourth, fifth, and sixth graders at Taconic Hills Elementary School, which have been part of the school’s curriculum since 2020.
Work on improving accessibility has already begun, with the conversion of office space off the theater lobby into an accessible restroom. Next is the construction of permanent ramping to the theater’s entrance, to be followed by parking upgrades and a covered porch between the two buildings.
“The evolution of Ancram Opera House from when it reopened its doors eight years ago to today has been nothing short of astounding,” Redlich said.
For more information go to www.ancramcenter.org
