Discovery Playhouse success continues

The Discovery Playhouse children's museum on Broadway has come a long way in a short time.

In 2010, the first year of its existence at its Broadway location, the Playhouse attracted more than 17,000 people, followed by 24,000 in 2011 and 25,000 in 2012. Those are impressive numbers, especially considering the construction that blocked traffic on Broadway last year.

The entity relies on visitors, fundraisers and donations to continue operations and add new exhibits and features. The building at 502 Broadway has room to expand on the second floor, and Playhouse officials hope this year's Birdhouse Bash will push those improvements forward.

The Birdhouse Bash -- called that because of the children's birdhouses that will be on display -- will be an elegant, garden-party-themed event. Guests will enjoy wine tasting, drinks from a cash bar and hors d'oeuvres provided by Port Cape. Daniel Sexton will provide guitar entertainment and the band "Us Instead" will provide music during the dancing portion of the evening. There will be items up for bid, and one couple could win seven nights at a resort in the Dominican Republic with $1,500 cash for airfare or spending money.

The Playhouse was founded in 2006 as a not-for-profit organization and was operated in West Park Mall until finding its home on Broadway in the spring of 2010.

The Birdhouse Bash is from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday at the Playhouse. Tickets are $50 for singles, $100 for couples and $450 for a reserved table of eight. For more information, contact the Discovery Playhouse at 335-7529.