Clear Space Theatre Company submits building plans for new theater spaces
REHOBOTH BEACH, Del. – New plans for two brand new theater spaces are taking the stage in Rehoboth Beach. The Clear Space Theatre Company says they’re still in the beginning stages of their project, but they’re excited to get started. “I think that people are looking for that bit of escape and entertainment, and being back in community again with each other,” said executive director Wesley Paulson.
Clear Space Theatre Company says that this chance to grow as an organization doesn’t just them. It also brings their community a new opportunity to enjoy the arts, and strengthen their economy. “By having this new facility it addresses that and allows us to give greater resource, not only for our programs, but for the community,” said Paulson.
Rehoboth Beach’s Clear Space Theatre is waiting in the wings for approval of their plan from the city. The organization is looking to build a new 256 seat traditional theater and a rehearsal theater. They say the new facility would allow them to expand their education programs and increase their production value. “The theater and the arts isn’t just about for now. It’s for generations and generations to come,” said board of directors chairman Carl Schloegel.
We’re told that the city was concerned about the height of the building, and noise and light pollution from a small parking garage that was originally part of the plan. Schloegel says they worked with the city to revise before submitting their final plans. “Our original design was not accepted with open arms by the city. So we listened to them and listened to what their concerns were,” said Schleogel.
Schloegel tells 47ABC that the theater decided to buy the property instead of leasing it. He says this allows the organization to make sure it could serve the community for generations to come. “When this property appeared on Rehoboth Avenue, we were elated because we’re currently in town, and for us, the best fit would be to stay in town,” said Schleogel.
Paulson says that the theater not only benefits the local arts community, but also helps the local economy grow. “Our patrons contributed over half a million dollars to the Rehoboth economy every year as the impact of buying tickets from us,” said Paulson.
Clear Space Theatre Company tells 47ABC that they got that estimate of half a million dollars with the help of Delaware Divison of the Arts. Paulson says that after polling their audiences, the organization found that 75% of theater goers dine at local restaurants either before or after the shows. The theatre company says that they’re thinking about how to safely produce shows as they’re allowed to reopen at their current location. Paulson tells 47ABC they’re aiming to open after the 4th of July.
