HARRISON — For 89 years, the Deertrees Theatre in Harrison has welcomed the famous and the unknown, and the professional and the amateur. Thousands have graced its stage, welcomed warmly by generations of impressed crowds.

“Our mission is to provide a diverse selection of quality cultural opportunities and present entertainment of the highest quality,” said Gail Phaneuf, Executive and Artistic Director for Deertrees Theatre. “We’re dedicated to the development and cultivation of the arts in our area as well as the restoration and preservation of our building.”

Recently, NSB made its latest contribution, delivering a $2,000 donation to the theatre in promotion of its mission (picture below).

“Deertrees Theatre is known as ‘Maine’s Most Enchanting Playhouse’ and if you’ve ever seen a production or performance there, you know why,” said Erin Nelson, Branch Manager AVP at NSB’s Bridgton branch. “It’s filled with history and surrounded by peaceful and beautiful grounds. It’s amazing.”

“Through its encouragement and support, Norway Savings has long played a major role in ensuring Deertrees continues to flourish,” said Phaneuf.

The donation will go towards shrinking the theatre’s list of needed repairs and planned enhancements, including the final stage of a roof repair, grading and fixing the parking lots, resurfacing the stage, installing bathroom flooring, and much more.

“It’s beyond impressive to observe the way the theatre has continued to grow as a place of beauty, creativity, and community in the Lake Region,” said Dan Walsh, President and CEO of Norway Savings. “We’re thrilled to help as they ensure it remains in good condition for future generations to enjoy.”

The 350-seat theatre was built of rose hemlock harvested from the property and equipped with a lighting system comparable to the Metropolitan Opera House. Many stars of stage and screen from across the country have performed inside the theater, and the property also features objects from the Hollywood of yesteryear.

“We have café seating in our Salt Lick Cabaret and Art Gallery space. There, visitors can enjoy refreshments, art, and look out on the Maine woods through our large back barn doors that were actually featured in the last scene of the 1954 film White Christmas,” said Phaneuf. “There is so much memorabilia. People come to take a trip to the past and support the artists and performers of the present. There is a magical energy here.”

The 2025 schedule is one of the theatre’s finest in recent memory. To check it out or discover the many ways you can help the theatre, from donations to volunteering, visit www.deertrees-theatre.org.