Star-Powered Stage Reading Aims to Save Historic Church

In a powerful act of cultural activism, high-profile celebrities including Matt Damon, Alec Baldwin, and J. Smith-Cameron assembled on October 27th for a special benefit reading of Kenneth Lonergan’s play “Hold on To Me Darling.” Held at The Sanctuary at St. Paul & St. Andrew, this star-studded event was more than just a performance. It was a symbolic protest to save the 135-year-old West Park Presbyterian Church from demolition. According to OurTownNY, this historic venue faces the threat of being sold for luxury development, a move that has divided the local community.

A Community Rallying for Preservation

The West Park Presbyterian Church, a masterpiece of the Romanesque Revival period, has stood in the neighborhood for generations. For local preservationists, this is more than just a building—it represents a historical legacy worthy of protection. The reading attracted attention with a minimum ticket price of $300, but the local community was welcomed with “pay-what-you-can” tickets, encouraging broader participation and support.

Economic Hardships and a Congregation in Conflict

The congregation’s push for demolition stems from financial strain, as they aim to sell the property in a deal reportedly worth $33 million. The proposed sale includes provisions for continued religious services within the resulting new development but has sparked debate on ethical and heritage grounds. This complex situation finds West Park’s congregation filing a “hardship application” to bypass landmark protections, a controversial move enabled after the eviction of The Center at West Park, a cultural organization formerly residing at the church.

Celebrity Support and Cultural Significance

Luminaries such as Alec Baldwin, Matt Damon, and Gretchen Mol lent their voices to the cause, with playwright Kenneth Lonergan hosting a post-reading discussion. This initiative is part of a larger effort by The Center at West Park to combine star power with grassroots advocacy. Lonergan’s involvement underscores his commitment, having organized similar events at the center before.

A Broader Movement and Future Plans

The Center at West Park is keeping the momentum going with additional events like a forthcoming benefit reading of “All About Eve” featuring Scarlett Johansson and J. Smith-Cameron. These events are not only artistic endeavors but part of a moral argument—a plea to preserve cultural heritage even as financial pressures mount.

The battle to save West Park Presbyterian Church is a poignant intersection of culture, community, and celebrity, showcasing how theater and activism can intertwine to tell a powerful story. Only time will tell whether these efforts will lead to a change of heart, but one thing is clear: the community’s love for its heritage burns bright.