County Theater campaign exceeds goal

The nonprofit County Theater announced it has exceeded its End of Year Fundraising Challenge goal, raising $529,654 and earning an additional $250,000 matching gift.

The theater has now raised over $2.28 million for its expansion project, meeting and exceeding its fundraising goal. This represents the gifts of 1,064 members and friends of the theater over the last year.

Thanks to the support of its members and donors, the County Theater will now begin the next phase of approvals and construction drawings for its expansion project. The proposed new addition to the theater will include a large third auditorium, an expanded lobby and complete first floor restrooms.

This is the culmination of planning and conversations with the community that began in 2016 with the purchase of the adjoining “Poor Richards” property. The theater has held 20 public meetings, conducted online surveys, and talked extensively to members, neighbors and other borough stakeholders. It is the purpose of this project to be by and for the local community.

The theater extends its thanks to everyone for helping to reach and exceed the campaign goal. The theater wishes to thank its campaign leadership, Pam Byers, Mark Dibner and Dick Patterson, and the theater’s board of directors, led by board President Kim Rainey, for their leadership and fundraising support.

This marks an important point in the project. Having raised the necessary funds to begin the project, the County Theater will continue to raise funds and secure financing for the largest capital improvement project in the County Theater’s 25 year history – which is currently estimated at a cost of $4.2 million. The construction project is led by architect John Cluver of Voith and Mactavish Architects of Philadelphia.

The board, staff and members of the County Theater wish to thank the entire community for their generosity and support.

Gifts are still being accepted and can be made by visiting CountyTheater.org/expansion or calling 215-348-1878 x117, or pick up a brochure at the theater.