Playhouse gets gift to renovate box office

Associated Press

Auction officer Marc Labarbe presents the painting that might have been done by Italian master Caravaggio.

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The Youngstown Playhouse is getting a box office makeover, thanks to a gift from Briarfield Health Care Centers.

Edward J. Reese, CEO of Briarfield, has announced that his organization will make a donation of an undisclosed amount to renovate the theater’s box office.

“For years, the Youngstown Playhouse has been the center for cultural excellence by enriching our area with the performing arts,” said Reese. “Briarfield is proud to support the events at the Playhouse, and we are excited to give our residents a front-row seat to enjoy these wonderful performances. It is another way for Briarfield to provide our residents with fulfilling and active lives in their retirement years.”

The Playhouse has offered premium seating arrangements for Briarfield residents, to express its appreciation.

“Another local business is joining the Youngstown Playhouse family,” said Bernie Appugliese, operations manager at the Playhouse. “It’s a true win-win. It enables us to continue our own goal of giving back to this wonderful community as well.”

On May 13, the Playhouse will dedicate the opening night performance of “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” to its donors, and a reception for them will take place after the musical.

The new box office name, which will honor the Reese Family and Briarfield Health Care Centers, also will be announced that night.