After 22 years on the set of The Late Show with David Letterman, legendary musician, composer, comedian and actor Paul Shaffer's custom-modeled Baldwin grand piano will soon have a new home at the Bedford Playhouse.
Local resident Paul Shaffer has been an enthusiastic supporter of the new Playhouse since its inception in 2015, and recently informed us of his intention to donate his piano. “It is an honor that the Bedford Playhouse has accepted my offer to take the piano,” said Shaffer. “We love Bedford, we’ve raised our children here, and we know that the Playhouse will become a very special new artistic center for our entire area.”
“Paul created so many memorable and magical moments playing this piano. We are humbled that he chose to honor Bedford Playhouse with this treasure,” said Sarah Long, Playhouse Chairman of the Board of Directors. “As the centerpiece of our new cafe, it will set a welcoming tone as a place where musicians and those who enjoy listening to music can come together.”
Shaffer has performed at Playhouse fundraisers and given interviews to extend awareness of the project. “I believe that the Playhouse folks are planning to put the piano in the Café…as long as people don’t spill drinks into it, I will be happy,” Shaffer mused.
Bedford Playhouse plans to open the main theater downstairs late this spring, and host select weekend programming and events over the summer. The full opening of the entire facility will happen early in the fall.
Stay tuned for more details.