The Cabot in Beverly raises $1.7M to replace HVAC system – Wicked Local Beverly

The Cabot Performing Arts Center, a nearly 100-year-old historic theatre and live music venue in Beverly, is beginning the second phase of a major renovation project.

The Cabot's executive director, Casey Soward, has just announced that, following a previously disclosed $225,000 grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council and a $50,000 grant from the Amelia Peabody Charitable Fund, the Beverly venue has now received full funding (an additional $1.425 million from various individual donors) for the replacement of its obsolete and poorly functioning heating, ventilation and air conditioning system.

The existing system is a combination of both originally installed elements along with other components that date back to the 1960s.

In addition, The Cabot has also just about wrapped up a $450,000 attic and ceiling repair project which included the reinforcement of the wood roof trusses with wood and metal to accept the new HVAC system and installation of new insulation for better energy performance and protection of The Cabot's sprinkler system. In order to do this work, the contractors had to build new work platforms, safety railings and a new roof hatch.

"And finally, The Cabot will also be completely renovating its new street side bar, which runs alongside the sidewalk on Cabot Street," said Soward. "The space has had a variety of uses in the past, including as a soda fountain in the 1950s and as a hunting and fishing shop in the 1970s. This chic new space with brick walls and a wheelchair accessible bathroom is expected to be finished in time for New Year's Eve."

Work on these major renovation projects is being handled by Windover Construction. The project is expected to be finished by early 2018 and with the exception of the first three weeks of January, The Cabot will remain open and presenting its full lineup of concerts, films and special events throughout the renovation process.

Board member Thaddeus S. Siemasko, AIA, founder of Siemasko + Verbridge, a leading architecture and interior design firm on the North Shore, and a frequent volunteer in organizations seeking to improve life in the City of Beverly, is overseeing all of the renovations. Siemasko is also one of the people who greatly supported the initial revival and saving of The Cabot.

"We are ecstatic to see these extensive renovations moving forward," said Soward. "We are entering the most exciting time in our young history as an organization, and I am beginning to feel like I'm not only directing a theater and its programming alongside running a non-profit organization, but also managing a massive construction project ... Fortunately however, we have an amazing team working with us. Leading the project for The Cabot are Thad Siemasko of Siemasko + Verbridge as well as Darren Blythe from Blythe Consulting Group; both are Beverly residents. These two men have invaluable skills and knowledge."

Established in 1920, The Cabot is a rare survivor. It's one of the few remaining historic movie and vaudeville palaces of yesteryear that have largely disappeared from the American cultural landscape.

The Cabot of the 21st century will be renovated and revitalized to provide a rich variety of high-quality entertainment year-round with modern amenities that will enhance the audience experience in the beautiful theater.

The Cabot is a 501 C3 non-profit organization. Donations and sponsorships are always welcome.

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The Cabot in Beverly raises $1.7M to replace HVAC system - Wicked Local Beverly