As previously reported, North Shore Music Theatre, the not-for-profit theatre company based in Beverly, MA, closed its doors after 55 years. North Shore officials had announced June 16 that the theatre had failed to raise the $2 million needed to launch a 2009 season.

Items that will be auctioned include the theatre-in-the-round, a restaurant and an education building that are all located on 24 acres of property. The auction will also include four vehicles as well as costumes and lighting and sound equipment.

Fellows said that four unnamed groups have expressed interest in buying North Shore with the idea of continuing to operate the venue as an arts center. Fellows told Salemnews, "I think everyone is thinking musicals, but they are also thinking of other things, from Shakespeare to straight plays to dance to opera. People are using this as an opportunity to think about what would sell and what is needed in North Shore communities."

North Shore Music Theatre, which began operating in 1955, was the largest non-profit producing theatre in New England.

For more information visit www.NSMT.org.