SARANAC LAKE — Pendragon Theatre, the Adirondacks’ longest-running year-round professional theatre, officially opened the next chapter of its capital campaign — The Last Act for The Next Stage for Downtown — at its Annual Gala on Aug. 15. The sold-out celebration had community members, theatre supporters and local leaders come together to honor nearly 50 years of performances and to rally behind Pendragon’s future. The evening marked the beginning of a push to broaden community support and bring new donors into the effort to open Pendragon’s new home in downtown Saranac Lake.

The evening featured live music, theatre performances and the debut of an original skit telling the story of the “Pendragon” and the path to a new stage. The gala raised approximately $187,000 — more than double the amount raised at previous events — providing critical momentum to carry Pendragon forward on the path to its new downtown home.

“This is not the end of the story–it’s the turning point,” said Melinda Little, Pendragon Board of Directors Chair. “Thanks to the generosity and belief of our community, we’ve come so far. Now begins the next chapter in Pendragon’s story, bringing our new home to life–a space that will better serve audiences, artists, our community and our region for generations.”

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Celebrating visionary leadership

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The Gala also honored dedicated committee members Lee Keet, Holly Wolff and Harry Gordon, whose vision and commitment laid the groundwork for the Next Stage for Downtown. Their leadership galvanized the community and helped secure millions of dollars in funding for the project.

In recognition of their impact, friends and family of the honorees announced the creation of a special donor challenge, designed to inspire others to step forward and support the campaign.

“This challenge, which raised about $107,000 of the Gala total, is just the first step in this final push,” said Chissie Wais, Development Director. “An incredible show of support, these friends are inviting the community to amplify their investment by 5X-building on the foundation of generosity that has brought us this far–and creating a springboard to raise the next $500,000. Every gift, and every new supporter who joins us, brings us closer to opening our new home downtown.”

A Final Season at Brandy Brook This year marks Pendragon’s final season in its historic Brandy Brook space–a stage that has nurtured decades of creativity and connection. While the move is bittersweet, the new downtown theatre promises a modern, accessible and sustainable home designed to expand year-round programming, welcome new audiences, serve as a vibrant resource for the community and strengthen the region’s cultural economy.

Pendragon’s final production at Brandy Brook, This Is Government, opened Aug. 27 and ran through August 30, giving audiences one last chance to experience the intimacy of the beloved stage before the company takes its bow in the space.

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A seat in the story

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As part of The Last Act campaign, supporters will have the chance to “take a seat” in the new theatre. This naming opportunity allows donors to dedicate a seat in honor of a loved one, a family, or a business while leaving a lasting mark on Pendragon’s future. Only 92 seats remain.

The Path Ahead The Last Act phase of the campaign will run from now until the funding goal is met. Community members are encouraged to participate by making a gift, sharing the campaign story, or helping to recruit new supporters to meet the challenge.

To learn more or make a contribution, visit tinyurl.com/zu5vr5ne.