Discover Delmarva: The Smash House
DOVER, Del- The Smash House in Dover is a unique entertainment center that also serves the local community as an avenue to explore their emotions. The Owner Shanita Powell and her husband Curtis Powell tell us, that the space they provide can be used for much more than just rage.
Mr. Powell says “I believe that the space gives people the opportunity to be creative. Also, it gives people an outlet for their mental health as well as entertainment.”
The mental health aspect is a big driver for the Powell’s. Mrs. Powell says visitors often channel deep emotions during their visit as an outlet to express themselves. “Different stages of grief that people may experience they can fully explore them here. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, loss of a job, loss of friendships.”
They also offer this as a great way to solve issues from the workplace according to Mrs. Powell “If it’s for workplace solutions we think about the organization that is booking that session and we try to curtail it to them.” They’ve done classrooms and regular office spaces to fit each group that visits.
During our visit safety was the main priority to safely enjoy your session. After signing a waiver they give you one of their stylish jumpsuits and a face shield to protect yourself. This is good news since a staple of their sessions includes some sharp materials. Mrs. Powell tells us “Those boxes are mixed breakables and they’ll function as conversation pieces. You may get something that makes you think back to your childhood.” You could find an old piece of grandma’s fine china or something you may have had a bad experience with and let those frustrations boil over
As for how they acquire all of these random pieces for their sessions?
Mrs Powell tells us “Our inventory is solely donations. So we can’t promise that someone’s going to have ex. item on any given day. Because we run and operate 100% off of donations. But, a staple for the executive smashes are televisions, and a furniture piece, as well as mixed boxes of breakables. ”
They even offer a session for the kids as an avenue for them to get in on the fun in a safer manner. Mrs Powell says “All glass is removed from the kid’s smash sessions. And it’s ceramics because they still also want to have that thrill of breaking.”
Now The Smash House does run completely on donations and they’ll even drive to you if you have something you would like to donate. You can find information on making a donation or scheduling your session on their website.
