An Inspiring Tradition Continues in Downtown Scranton

For several years the Vintage Theater has hosted events and gatherings that resonate an artistic vibe that is relaxed, open minded, and displays a willingness to take chances and experiment; freedom of expression. Part of the Vintage’s mission,  a non-profit organization, is to open their doors to any and all aspects of the arts without judgment or censorship. Regular events include: First Friday Openings, Open Mic Poetry Readings, Open Mic Night (Music and Comedy), Concerts, Plays, Stage Readings, Workshops and Critiques. With this vision in mind Conor O’Brien and Theresa O’Connor, the organizers of the “new” Vintage, decided that in order to cultivate this idea they would need more space. A place that would be able to sustain the performing arts as well as visual and musical events.
Keeping the Vintage in Scranton was a given, but as a non-profit change in any direction requires the community’s help to sustain it’s programming. As Theresa O’Connor states:
“We believe in the people in the community and work to support their talent and passion. We have been First Friday participators since we first opened our doors, and although we are on hiatus for these three months, we plan on latching on once again.  Part of our mission is to foster the arts in our own community as well as aid in fundraising for other charitable organizations. We strive to create a connection to the events we hold to a greater good in the local community. We couldn’t do that if we left Scranton.”
And so in Scranton they’ll remain, but what’s next. Much of that is up to those of you who support the arts. With that here’s Conor to fill in the details:
 
Greetings!
We wish to thank everyone in the community and beyond for their kind patience and support as work through this “hiatus” period. We wish to keep all of you (and in turn the public) aware of The Vintage and its current situation. After examining dozens of options we have found what will be the best fit for the future home of The Vintage. While we cannot at this time announce the location we can assure everyone it will be downtown and that we foresee a September reopening.
Within our new home we will continue the work many have come to enjoy while expanding many elements we felt were lacking from our programming (stronger focus to the literary arts, dedicated stage reading series, etc.). Before all of this comes to life we will be holding two key live fundraisers to ensure our transition is as smooth as possible. We are calling upon the community that we hope we have been able to touch and benefit in some small way.
Upcoming fundraisers:
July 27^th, 2012
Harry Houdini Museum: 1433 N. Main St., Scranton, PA
Reception at 7:00 pm. Tickets $15.
“A Cabaret Night” – Featuring performances of the musical, mystical, spoken and comedic arts! This event was made possible by the Harry Houdini Museum, which will play host. Wonderful light fare and drink will compliment this intimate evening.
(Advance tickets are available HIGHLY encouraged).
 
August 9^th, 2012
Mertz: 310 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA
5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Tickets $20 (open bar includes beers, well drinks, wine and appetizers)
 “Mert’s Fundraiser” – Enjoy an evening in downtown Scranton while supporting The Vintage! Beyond the great drinks and fare – live music, art, basket raffles and more will make this a fantastic and mellow night out!
In addition to these two live fundraisers an amazing online “crowd sourcing” campaign will commence within the next week. Stay tuned for further details.
Conor O’Brien
Co-Founder/Programming Director, The Vintage Theater
(570) 589 0271
www.scrantonsvintagetheater.com