The Suffield Players are giving their historic home a much-needed facelift — starting from the ground up. Through their new “Rock the Lot” fundraising campaign, the all-volunteer theatre company is upgrading the parking area at Historic Mapleton Hall, creating a safer, more accessible, and environmentally friendly space for patrons before the curtain even rises.
Facilities Manager Jason Fregeau noted that the improvement has been a long time coming. During heavy rain or snowmelt, the unpaved lot often turned soft and muddy, creating difficulties for both cars and theatre-goers. A temporary gravel layer was installed earlier this spring to stabilize the surface, but the ultimate goal is a permanent, professionally graded lot with a proper base and drainage system — funded entirely by community donations through Rock the Lot.
Working with Nature, Not Against It
Fregeau emphasized that this project required close collaboration with the Town of Suffield to ensure ecological responsibility. “The initial stages involved a number of members along with town and state assistance to ascertain what exactly could be done to reduce the mud and standing water in the lot,” he said. “This was impacted by the wetlands surrounding Mapleton Hall property and how the environment could be properly protected so there is no damage to the area.”
Thanks to the guidance of member Art Christian and contractor Thomas Remington of Remington Enterprises, the team ensured that all work meets environmental standards.
For Board President Renee Bouldin and Publicity Director Hanna Madler, sustainability was key. With Bouldin’s work in a conservation-focused nonprofit and Madler’s role at the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, both leaders were proud to see the theatre take an eco-conscious approach to preserving its historic home.
A More Inviting Environment
Co-Box Office Manager Martha Zalewski explained that the parking lot improvements show how much the group cares for both its patrons and its home. She noted that maintaining a level, well-drained surface not only keeps visitors safe but also reflects the Players’ continued commitment to making Mapleton Hall a more welcoming and comfortable place for all.
Madler added that the refreshed exterior sends a message of care and renewal. “When audiences see that we’re investing in our space, it signals our pride in this building and our dedication to keeping community theatre thriving for years to come,” she said.
Accessibility and Growth
Accessibility has become a cornerstone of The Suffield Players’ mission, reflecting the company’s broader goal of making the arts available to all. Recent improvements — including subtitled performances, additional matinees, and now a more visitor-friendly parking area — help lower barriers for new audiences while encouraging greater community involvement.
“These projects open the door for new patrons and new volunteers alike,” Madler shared. “Every improvement helps us grow stronger as an organization.”
Fregeau agreed, adding that the parking lot upgrade symbolizes the group’s continued evolution: “We take pride in holding ourselves to professional standards both on and off the stage. The improvements at Mapleton Hall highlight our potential for growth in every area — from facilities and accessibility to performance and community engagement.”
How to Help “Rock the Lot” — and Give Back This Season
The Rock the Lot campaign is currently underway, inviting donations from patrons and community members to help fund the grading, drainage, and materials needed for the new gravel surface.
With Giving Tuesday right around the corner, the Players hope supporters will consider making a tax-deductible donation to ensure Mapleton Hall remains a safe, accessible, and inviting home for local theatre.
Donations can be made online at www.SuffieldPlayers.org or mailed to:
The Suffield Players
P.O. Box 101
Suffield, CT 06078
(Please note “Rock the Lot” on your check or donation.)
Each contribution helps keep Historic Mapleton Hall a welcoming and accessible space for theatre lovers of every generation — proving that the Suffield Players’ passion for the arts begins the moment you pull into the lot.