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Farr Talks Plan For Bedford Playhouse, Seeks Celebrities' Backing

BEDFORD, N.Y. -- The man behind a proposal to turn the Bedford Playhouse into a non-profit theater discussed his plan at the Bedford Town Board meeting on Tuesday and outlined a tentative time table, a meeting video shows.

The Bedford Playhouse, located in Bedford Village.

The Bedford Playhouse, located in Bedford Village.

Photo Credit: Tom Auchterlonie

It was mentioned that the idea was because Bow Tie Cinemas, the current theater tenant, is not renewing its lease that expires at the end of the year.

Discussion begins in the video shortly after the 12-minute mark.

John Farr, who commissioned an online survey to gauge public support, shared the results. The data, which were included in the board’s meeting packet, show that there were 785 responses as of Oct. 2, with 88 percent in favor, 9 percent undecided and just 2 percent against.

Farr was pleased with the feedback.

“That’s pretty astonishing,” he told the board.

However, Farr brought up a challenge, which is the survey showing that most respondents would be willing to contribute on the lower end towards memberships. The results show that 62 percent would only give $100 to $250 while just 1 percent would give more than $5,000. The remainder would give various amounts in between.

“That’s not going to do it,” Farr told the board, but explained that situation is not unusual.

Farr also told the Town Board that he is seeking support from people with deep pockets and celebrities – he mentioned Ralph Lauren, Martha Stewart and George Soros as hypothetical examples – and would like to arrange a meeting with them or their representatives.

Aside from memberships, Farr mentioned the importance of events for a non-profit model. However, he cited the current 2-screen arrangement of the Playhouse as a problem, noting their 18-foot widths. As a solution, Farr suggested a renovation to restore the Playhouse to a single-screen theater.

“We could be known as having the best theater, single-screen theater, outside of New York City,” Farr added, contending that it could mean not having to totally rely on Bedford residents for attendance.

An unknown that Farr raised has to do with the property’s landlord. Kenneth Horn, who is an owner through an entity called Alchemy Bedford, LLC, previously expressed interest in Farr’s concept in a Daily Voice interview. At the board meeting, Farr discussed recent talks with Horn but explained that he wants more information from him. 

Farr also mentioned Horn’s potential redevelopment of the property – previous coverage is available here – and gave his preferences for the area. At the meeting, Farr spoke favorably of adding more parking and of having another restaurant near by.

At the meeting, Farr also mentioned people who could help in the effort and requested the Playhouse’s original plans, which could be used for a renovation.

Town Historian John Stockbridge also spoke and gave an historical overview of the Bedford Village structure, including its 1947 opening  and old ticket prices – he noted the cost was 40 cents but there was a 60-cent rate for smoking upstairs. Stockbridge then voiced concern about Bedford not having a theater, citing a loss of character and history.

Town Board members then expressed interest in the proposal and approved a resolution in support.

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