Performing Arts Foundation.

The Performing Arts Foundation was established with federal funding in 1966 by Clint Marantz, a Huntington (N.Y.) English teacher. Composer/singer Harry Chapin served as Chairman of Development on the Board of Directors for a number of years. In the early years (1966-1969), the Performing Arts Foundation consisted of a mobile theater company, a dance ensemble, and various music groups that toured local schools. In 1971, the Playhouse was established, where fully-mounted productions were staged. After the death of Mr. Chapin, the theatre building was renamed the Harry Chapin Center. In 1982, the Performing Arts Foundation went bankrupt.