The Main Stage
The Church proscenium stage is 22 ft. deep (cyc to front of stage) and 36 ft. across (wing to wing) and is spring loaded, making it especially applicable for dance productions. There are 277 fixed seats within a tiered, continental seating design. Additional seating can be added along the side balconies. The sound and light boards are located in an easily accessible cubicle. Both systems have been recently updated with audio-visual capability. Guests enter through the 170 year old double wooden doors to be greeted by the box office. The front lobby has space for concessions, merchandise and marketing displays. The facility is handicapped accessible through ramps to the side door, south of the main entrance.
The Annex
This building was added in 1853. South of the main stage, the art gallery, blackbox theatre and administrative offices are located in the Annex. Among performing arts centers that operate year round, the Chocolate Church is unique in having a visual arts component. The blackbox theatre, with its own street-level entrance, is an ideal venue for smaller dance performances, theatre productions, musical shows or catered events. Seating varies depending on production and format. A basic kitchen, comfortable dressing rooms and bathroom facilities are also in this building.
The Art Gallery
As a performance arts center, we uniquely include an art gallery as an additional venue located on the top floor of the Annex. This room lends itself to several interpretations. The dimensions are:
West Wall: 14 ft. 6 in.
South Wall s/w: 12 ft.
South Wall (recessed): 12 ft.
South Wall s/e: 12 ft.
South/East Corner: 8 ft. x 4 ft.
North/w Wall: 16 ft.
North/e Wall: 17 ft.
2021 Renovation Project
The Request for Proposal Now Available for Review—Moving Forward!
In April 2020, CCAC was awarded significant funds as part of the Revitalize Maine Grant Program, administered by Maine Downtown Center in partnership with the Maine Historic Preservation Commission. The grant allows us to hire engineers and architects to assess the building and identify priorities for renovation. The process will also give us an estimated cost of rehabilitation—a crucial piece of information as we move forward.
Revitalize Maine Grant Program
The survey referred to in the video has been completed so the link is inactive, but the video provides a useful overview of the project and process.
Join the Chocolate Church Family of Supporters!
To learn more and become a sponsor of the arts in midcoast Maine please call or email today!
☎ (207) 442-8455 ▪ info@chocolatechurch.com
The Chocolate Church Arts Center (CCAC) was incorporated and received 501(3)(c) status in 1977, and has over the ensuing 40 years exercised its dual mission of presenting graphic, visual, and performing arts to midcoast Maine while preserving and protecting its home, the former Congregational Church built in 1847.