The Pamela Raymond Performance Pavilion

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Pam Raymond had a vision of The Common Ground as a community gathering place and a center for cultural enlightenment and celebration of the arts. Pam is a philanthropist and community activist as well as the proprietor of The Sayville Inn, a historic restaurant and tavern that has played host to many prominent citizens in its 100 + year history including Teddy Roosevelt and his cousin John E. Roosevelt who owned Meadowcroft Estate just down the road. With her theatrical background and love of the arts, giving Sayville a beautiful performance space became her mission.

Local architect Kevin Paul donated the design of the pavilion, and local builder John Cox of Cox Construction donated his own time as well procuring the supplies to build the pavilion at cost. Pam and Betty Whitehouse worked to secure a grant from Suffolk County Legislator Bill Lindsay to cover half of the cost of the structure and Pamela donated the rest of the cost herself.

The pavilion is home to many of The Common Ground’s events including The Stadmuller Summer Series, the September Symphonies, Family Friday’s and Movies Under the Stars.

Many a warm summer evening has been passed enjoying a production at the pavilion, ranging from a vaudeville show to an Italian tenor or a touring Shakespeare production. One of the most heartwarming things you may ever see is an audience ranging in age from 3 to 80 all mesmerized by a ballet troupe or a jazz band.

With the continued support of the community the pavilion will continue to provide years of enjoyment and enlightenment to all ages and ranges of people. And, Pam Raymond’s wish to share her love of the arts with her community will be fulfilled.