Broadway Bound: Long Island Preps For Some Cultural Enrichment

Some of you may remember or remember hearing about a time when officials were talking about transforming the “old” Grumman facility into a theatre district.

Well, the owners of Skippers in Northport are revisiting their dreams of refurbishing the Main Street theatre and bringing more traffic and business to this quaint little “village”.

In fact, the owners purchased more than $40,000 worth of tickets for seven shows that will be featured throughout the year and are offering them as part of a package that includes a three-course meal. And, they are hoping that many other local merchants join them by coming on board.

The theatre is currently undergoing a $2.5 million renovation and is expected to reopen its doors in June just in time for “tourist” season. And, they are hoping that there efforts along with the appointment of a new mayor and many new board trustees with help change the village’s reputation and put it on the map as one of Long Island’s destination “hot spots”.

In addition, the new government intends on revamping some legislation including an almost 30-year ban on eateries and bars opening within 300 feet of each other. And, there’s also talk of bringing a farmer’s market to the area and potentially allowing for bed and breakfasts.

Locals note that for many years there seemed to be a concern about local government opposing such “commercial expansion” for fear of turning this little village into the likes of Port Jefferson and having to deal with the inherent problems therein. And, many suggest that the lack of ability to make visitors feel welcome and comfortable has sabotaged local business forcing many to have to shut their doors. Now many see this new theatre venture as a way to turn the economic climate and the tourism in the town around.