Second Congregational Church is seeking donations to replace a stage curtain that failed to meet safety codes.
According to Wilton Fire Chief Don Nourse, the state fire marshal was conducting an annual fire assembly inspection during the summer at church, located on 25 Gregg St. During the inspection, the fire marshal discovered the stage curtain in Parish Hall did not meet the National Fire Protection Agency’s Life Safety Code because it was not treated with a flame retardant. The curtain was deemed unsafe to use, and was taken down immediately following the inspection. A replacement is projected to cost $6,000, including installation.
Home to the Wilton Collaborative Space, the Second Congregational Church is a gathering place and event hall used by numerous clubs and organizations in town, including the Wilton Lions Club and the Conservation Commission. In addition, the church hosts its annual fall dinner plays in Parish Hall. This year, the first two fall dinner plays are on Sunday, Nov. 6, and Thursday, Nov. 10, starting at 4 p.m., followed by two more shows Friday, Nov. 11, and Saturday, Nov. 12, each starting at 7 p.m.
According to Jessie Salisbury, a member of the church’s publicity committee, the church is hoping to have a replacement curtain before the November shows. However, Salisbury said the performances will happen, with or without a stage curtain.
“The plays are going to go on regardless,” said Salisbury.
Donations for a new stage curtain can be sent to the Second Congregational Church UCC, P.O. Box 246, Wilton, NH 03086 with a note stating it’s for the curtain.