New patio at Casino Theatre in Vandergrift made possible by tourism grant
There’s now more room to roam for patrons visiting the Casino Theatre in Vandergrift.
New patio furniture, including sponsored, personalized black and gray benches, were installed this spring on the terrace outside the theater, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
An $11,800 grant from the Westmoreland County Tourism Grant Program financed the project.
“The purpose of the grant is to enhance the tourism experience, increase tourism visitation and to generate overnight stays within Westmoreland County,” said Janice Oberdorf, treasurer of the nonprofit Casino Theatre Restoration and Management.
CTRM will be responsible for a 25% match, utilizing funds received from theater rental fees.
The furniture is crafted from polywood and was crafted in Smicksburg.
“The theater board decided to continue with the color scheme at the theater to help tie in with the ones being installed in the local parks and to unify the borough’s recreational sites,” Oberdorf said.
CTRM volunteer Anthony Guerrera also spearheaded the bench installation efforts at Kennedy and Franklin parks in Vandergrift.
Two benches are installed on the patio, with a third bench on order.
A bench sponsorship is $430.
Oberdorf said the patio will be utilized before and during theater events.
Last weekend, Ovation School of Dance from Springdale hosted a circus-themed dance recital.
“Parents and children were able to partake of cotton candy and popcorn before and after the shows while enjoying the gorgeous summer weather on the patio,” Oberdorf said.
“The patio space is a wonderful addition to the Casino Theatre. It will provide needed space for people to mingle or just relax and enjoy the view, before, during intermission and after shows and events,” said Julia Martin, a board member of the Vandergrift Improvement Program and Vandergrift Museum.
“Vandergrift is beyond lucky to have a gem like the Casino Theatre and the amazing volunteers that care for it,” Martin said.
The patio is available for private rental.
Rates are negotiated based on individual event requirements, Oberdorf said.
Joyce Hanz is a native of Charleston, S.C. and is a features reporter covering the Pittsburgh region. She majored in media arts and graduated from the University of South Carolina. She can be reached at jhanz@triblive.com
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