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Bedford County Players dedicated to the arts

Fire that destroyed theater provided ‘opportunity to use spaces differently’

BEDFORD — Nearly a year after fire destroyed the Gardner Memorial Theater at Old Bedford Village, the Bedford County Players are marching on.

The group lost more than a location that day, as the fire destroyed props, equipment, lighting and audio systems, curtains, furniture, old jewelry and much more.

While the loss was a hard hit, the group continues to press forward and has since put on numerous performances all over Bedford County, including this weekend’s debut of Stephen Sondheim’s “Into the Woods,” under the direction of Samantha Diehl and Matt Godissart.

Having been part of the Bedford County Players on and off for 21 years, Godissart says this is the second show he has directed.

“While we were sad to lose the theater, it has opened us up to new and interesting set designs, allowing us to open up our options and expand on what we do. It’s given us the opportunity to use spaces differently,” he said.

Godissart is particularly thrilled with the set for “Into the Woods,” as he and the team have worked hard to maximize the large auditorium space at Chestnut Ridge Middle School.

“This is definitely one of the hardest shows we’ve ever done,” he said. “We’re looking at over 100 lighting cues, over 200 sound cues and 15 actors who have to sing Stephen Sondheim music. We’re thrilled about all of it.”

Godissart is hopeful that the community will come out to show their support, saying, “We’re really excited about ‘Into the Woods’ and hope everyone comes to see it.”

Nadine Glass, vice president of the Bedford County Players, has been with the group for more than 30 years in various roles.

“While it’s been challenging to find places that will work for performances since the loss of the theater, the community has been very gracious in accommodating us,” Glass said.

She gave kudos to Chestnut Ridge School District for the use of its auditorium and spoke of the challenges of the reorganization process.

“We use a storage space that one of our members has,” she said. “We practice there and try to imagine what it’ll be like at a new place, mapping it out on the floor.”

Glass added, “We are constantly adjusting and revamping. Despite our challenges, we have worked nightly to put on this wonderful Stephen Sondheim performance, and it’s bigger and better than anyone expected.”

In terms of the future, both Godissart and Glass said the group is actively looking for a permanent location.

Godissart said they have a few places in mind, but nothing definite. Glass said the group is still searching for the perfect location and that they, along with some architects, have looked at some places.

“We are dedicated to bringing the arts and maintaining the arts in Bedford County,” Glass said.

There is a GoFundMe account for the Bedford County Players for those interested in donating to the cause: https://www.gofund me.com/bedford-county-players-new-home.

To date, the account has raised $7,290 of a $2 million goal. Funds will be used toward locking down a new, permanent location and renovating the space for future shows.

Glass said the group is also applying for grants and has received some funding from the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies and the Pennsylvania Council for the Arts.

Founded in 1983 by the namesakes for Gardner Memorial Theater, Priscilla and Harry Gardner, the Bedford County Players has been a staple in Bedford County, showcasing local talents with well-known hits such as “Annie,” “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “The Great Gatsby,” among hundreds of others.

Glass said there is always room for others to join the community effort and that stage performers aren’t the only talents the group needs. She said the current group is a mixture of all age groups and encourages anyone interested to get in touch with any current member for more information.

The Bedford County Players will perform “Into the Woods” tonight and next weekend at the Chestnut Ridge Middle School. Tickets cost $15 per person, and reservations may be made by calling 814-623-7555.

Future performances include “12 Angry Jurors,” “Forever Plaid” and “Alice in Wonderland.” Auditions for “Alice in Wonderland” will be held Aug. 25-26.

For more information, visit www.bedfordcounty

players.com.

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