Matunuck theater switching to nonprofit status

SOUTH KINGSTOWN – Theatre-By-The-Sea, purchased earlier this month by Massachusetts theater and musical event producer Bill Hanney, is turning nonprofit.
Hanney, who bought the 74-year-old Matunuck institution from previous owner, FourQuest Entertainment, pointed out in a release that the formation of the nonprofit Ocean State Theatre Company Inc. would give the theater a greater opportunity to develop new sources of revenue, specifically contributions from corporations, foundations, governmental organizations and private donors.
“Everyone with whom I have come in contact has been quick to express how grateful they are to have ‘their’ theater back,” Hanney said in the release. The season’s first show, “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum,” opens for previews Aug. 8, but Hanney believes that the company’s future lies with more than just presenting shows.
“We are also interested in exploring an educational component,” said Amiee Turner, producing artistic director. “This might include a main stage children’s series, conducting various workshops and hopefully offering a children’s theater camp.”
The company is holding an Opening Night Celebration on Friday, Aug. 10; tickets are $75 and include a champagne reception prior to the show and admission to the party with the cast following the show.
For more information about Theatre By The Sea, contact that box office Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., or go to www.theatrebythesea.com.