‘Not a Bad Seat’
Is Wonderful Read

Any institution which survives and flourishes for over a century is worthy of note—especially in the contemporary world of breathless change and the current American throw-away society.

The story of the creation, demise, and restoration of Chandler Music Hall in little Randolph, Vermont is one which reverberates far beyond this charming New England community.

I have just finished reading your marvelous book, "Not a Bad Seat in the House," about Col. Albert Chandler's "Marvelous Music Hall." It is a wonderful, inspiring, very readable narrative of an individual, a town and a theater which was not only saved from the wrecker's ball, but has gone on to become a thriving entity in the cultural and social history of Vermont.

I must confess that my interest in and reaction to the story of Chandler can not be completely objective. During the early 1970s I played a small role in the revitalization of that venerable edifice.

Native son Albert Chandler himself is worthy of a book, but it is the tale of what occurred long after he gave the building to his fellow citizens that is so fascinating.

At its heart it is a story of a remarkable group of individuals and a small town that refused to shrink from the considerable challenge of bringing back to life a somewhat decrepit structure. Furthermore, they infused it with new life—figuratively and literally—creating for themselves and their descendants a vital cultural institution of inestimable worth.

Dickey Drysdale and his colleagues have woven together the saga of Chandler employing the personal reminiscences of many of those involved, contemporary accounts of the theater's early years, its decline, and the truly remarkable rebirth which still continues, with affection and good humor, and in great and welcome detail.

The range and number of both professional and non-professional productions and performances which have taken place on that stage is astonishing. The people of Randolph and surrounding communities must take enormous pride in their accomplishment. I expect and would hope that this book will find its way onto everyone's bookshelves. It is a part of their heritage, their lives and their legacy.

The performing and visual arts have been the major focus of my professional and personal life. When my friend and colleague, Richard Emerson asked me 'lo those many years ago to come to Vermont and help him "put on a show" with the Randolph Singers, I could not have imagined the intense, rewarding experiences which awaited me over the course of two years.

Perhaps the greatest legacy of the Chandler story is the continued, joyful involvement of the young people in town—as performers, budding artists and, ultimately, community leaders. They really get it: the satisfaction and sheer fun in expressing themselves and striving for excellence in whatever form they choose.

"Not a Bad Seat in the House" is an important historical document, as well as a rousing good story. It is a blueprint for others in understanding the intrinsic value of historic preservation; the uplifting and entertaining impact of the performing and visual arts; community collaboration; public and private cooperation—and the pure excitement of "putting on a show."

It is also an admirable reflection, a brilliant snapshot, of American life.

Paul Bouchey

Grafton, N.Y.