LEWISTON — The Maine Community Foundation recently granted $5,000 to The Public Theatre, of Lewiston, to support the theatre’s efforts to provide meaningful employment to Maine theatrical designers.

“On behalf of our 16,000 yearly patrons, I would like to thank The Maine Community Foundation for providing funds to employ talented theatrical artists who have chosen to live and work right here in Maine,” said Christopher Schario, executive/artistic director of The Public Theatre. “Thanks to their support, we will be able to continue our tradition of hiring 12 to 14 Maine-based, professional designers for our scenery, lighting, costumes and sound. We have a great relationship with many seasoned professional who meet our high production standards and we are always excited to discover new local talent each season. The Public Theatre is all about supporting and cultivating high-quality professional theatre that is affordable and accessible right here in Maine. We are honored to have The Maine Community Foundation as a partner.”

“In past seasons, we have hired local artists such as Michael Reidy of Lewiston, Kathleen Brown of Camden, Dan Bilodeau of Temple and many more. Their attention to detail and work ethic are unsurpassed and that directly relates to the quality experience that we are able to provide our patrons,” said Schario.

The Public Theatre is a professional Equity theatre that produces an exciting selection of contemporary plays, featuring the finest professional actors from New York to Los Angeles. During the summer months, they offer a challenging summer theater program for youths who want to become professional actors.

The current production, “Good People,” by David Lindsay-Abaire, runs March 14-23.