PORTSMOUTH, N.H. -- As the second oldest theater in New England, The Music Hall today celebrated its distinction as an “American Treasure” with the unveiling of a plaque and update on ongoing restoration work. U.S. Senator Judd Gregg (R-NH), with The Music Hall President Gail Van-Hoy Carolan and Executive Director Patricia Lynch, helped with the unveiling. Through his position on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Gregg has previously secured a $395,000 grant for improvements at The Music Hall. The 900-seat theater, built in 1878, serves over 70,000 patrons annually.

Senator Gregg stated, “The Music Hall is an active connection to the great heritage of Portsmouth and the Seacoast Region. After more than a 125 years of performances, it still remains a center of culture and entertainment for the community. The staff of The Music Hall has excelled at the preservation and promotion of the theater, and we owe them our gratitude for the work they have done. The ‘American Treasure’ label properly designates this a historic place worthy of our protection, and I am optimistic it will continue to host many fine performances well into the future.”

Patricia Lynch, Executive Director of The Music Hall, stated, “We are thankful for Senator Gregg’s continued strong support for The Music Hall and appreciation for our role as a cultural anchor for the Seacoast community. His dedication to the New Hampshire arts community has led to our recognition as an ‘American Treasure’ which will allow us to preserve the character of The Music Hall and restore a historic landmark.”

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