NOH ready to kick off 26th season

NEWBERRY — Heading into its 26th season, the Newberry Opera House is getting a much needed face-lift after years of wear and tear and soon the community will get a sneak peek of those changes before the 26th season officially kicks off.

Executive Director Anne Pinckey Smith said the changes patrons will see are more of a refresh rather than a renovation – the Opera House will still have its same look, but will feature upgrades that will enhance the experience for people of all abilities.

“You didn’t really have big, motorized wheelchairs 25 years ago so we wanted to make it more easily maneuverable – bathrooms that are ADA height, really just making it a better experience,” she said.

Other changes coming to the Opera House include upgrades to sound and lighting and a lineup of performers that will appeal to both younger and older generations.

“We try to nod to the past with acts like Chubby Checker and Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder. We want to encourage the new, younger generation to come. It’s such an intimate experience and so we want to blend the old with the new and freshen it up,” Smith said.

Smith added that before or after coming to a show at the Opera House, patrons can add to their experience by enjoying the rest of downtown Newberry’s businesses and maybe see performers walking the streets of Newberry.

“It’s just a different experience,” she said.

On Sept. 13, a preview party will be held at the Opera House to give the community a chance to see what they’ve been working on the last couple of months. The event will begin at 6 p.m. and tickets can be purchased on the Newberry Opera House website.

Smith said tours will also be offered the following day, Sept. 14. From there, the Opera House will operate under normal hours, open Tuesday-Saturday.

“We’re just looking forward to a wide variety of something for everybody,” Smith said.

To purchase tickets or if you have questions, visit www.newberryoperahouse.com or call 803-276-6264.