Nothing but gratitude from Gamm Theatre

GUEST COMMENTARY LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

To Our Pawtucket Community,

The Gamm Theatre is moving at the end of this month to our new space in Warwick.

While this is an incredibly exciting time for the organization, it is also bittersweet.

The Gamm has come into its own in Pawtucket over 15 wonderful seasons. While we certainly could not have done it without the strenuous efforts of our staff, board, artists and volunteers, it would have been impossible without the collaboration and helping hands of so many friends in the city who in 2003 literally opened their arms and helped us move our furniture and equipment from our previous home in Providence to our (then) awaiting home at the Pawtucket Armory.

I want to particularly thank the indefatigable Mayor Donald Grebien and his staff for their generosity and support, as well as the previous administration of the late Mayor James Doyle. Herb Weiss, Barney Heath, Mike Cassidy and the staff of the Planning and Redevelopment Department were always there when we needed them, as was Bob Billington and everyone at the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council. Thanks also to the City Council and School Committee, and the numerous teachers throughout the city with whom we’ve been privileged to help the amazing students of Pawtucket (from kindergarten all the way to 12th grade) increase their literacy skills and open up to the power of the arts.

I was born in this city and grew up in Fairlawn. It has been among the distinct privileges of my life to return to this community and help make the arts an integral part of the quality of its cultural and civic life. No matter where I go, my personal roots will always be here.

Likewise, the Gamm’s foundation will remain embedded in the bricks and mortar of the beautiful Exchange Street armory.

Though we are moving a quick 15 minutes away, I trust that the deep relationships we have formed will find a way to continue and I’m excited that companies like the venerable Mixed Magic Theater and the young but mighty Burbage Theatre remain in this city to continue their important work and keep pushing the arts forward here in my hometown. Please support them.

They help make the city beautiful and thanks, and thanks and ever thanks to all of you for supporting us.

With deepest gratitude,