Concerts will be held at new banquet center

The Milford Village Council has directed the Planning Commission to amend the village’s office district zoning ordinance to allow for concerts at the new banquet center operating in the former St. Mary’s Church building.

The move comes as the operators of the center, Kim and Dan Russo, have said that they want to host live theater productions and other musical events in the new center called The Gathering Place, which will occupy the main level of the former Old Stone Church and host events including weddings, dances, and baby and bridal showers.

The operators have indicated that any such musical events would take place between the hours of 7 and 10 p.m., no alcohol will be served, and limited tickets would be available so that the head count isn’t exceeded.

The Russos are looking to host productions such as those held at the Purple Rose Theater in Chelsea, as well as concerts from a wide range of musicians, including jazz, classical and blues artists.

In order to come before the Village Council, the operators had to amend their business plan to add the words “Cultural Arts Center.”
Back in January 2010, the council struck down plans by Subhash Kapur and musician Alexander Zonjic to convert the church, located at 219 E. Commerce, into a cultural center that would have hosted events such as jazz concerts and poetry readings.