Published: July 03, 2009 08:23 am      

CV Artworks has new home

Staff Report

CHERRY VALLEY — Cherry Valley Artworks has a new home.

The organization recently signed a long-term contract with the Village of Cherry Valley to occupy and rehabilitate the former village hall and Star Theatre.

The building, at 44 Main St., has been unoccupied, with the exception of few rooms used the American Legion, since the village moved its offices to the Old School Community Center.

``This is an incredibly exciting development for both Artworks and the village. Our motto is `revitalizing the community through the arts’ and I can’t think of a better way to carry out that mission that this,’’ Cherry Valley Artworks Director Jane Sapinsky. She said that for many years, the theatre was the center of village life with movies, live shows, music, dances and more.

``Everyone I’ve spoken to who lived here when it was operating has wonderful memories of the good times they shared with their neighbors. We hope to bring that back with varied programming that will appeal to all segments of the community,’’ Sapinsky said.

The rehabilitation of the building will be a long-term project that will move forward as funding becomes available, she said, adding that one benefactor has already donated funds to upgrade the septic system and the village has secured a grant that can be applied to new doors, windows and heating system.

The organization wants it to be an environmentallyfriendly building and is investigating the latest technologies.

``We intend to do this the right way,’’ Sapinsky said.

``We want this to be a topof- the-line facility that will attract top people.’’

The building was originally the Judd Foundry and was constructed of local limestone between 1818 and 1820. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the theatre, originally the firehouse, is listed in the Register of Historic American Theatres.

Later in the season, Artworks will hold an open house with an opportunity for community members to tour the building and the theatre and learn ways they can contribute to the project.

``It is extremely important for the community to be involved in this project. We encourage people to volunteer their expertise, donate time, money, help in any way they can to make this happen,’’ Sapinsky said.