In what could be the theatergoer's best New Year's gift, the award-winning Cygnet Theatre Company recently announced that it had reached agreement with the State of California Department of Parks and Recreation, effecting a 10-year lease on the Old Town Theatre, located on Twiggs Street in the historical district. Cygnet, which will continue in its present location on El Cajon Boulevard, was instituted by artistic director Sean Murray "” then late of North Coast Repertory Theatre "” and executive director Bill Schmidt in 2002. The first season was presented the following year.

Employing San Diego's finest actors and utilizing local directors and designers as well, Cygnet has produced work of consistent high quality that has attracted community support and critical acclaim. As evidence of Cygnet's excellence and the timely nature of its productions, one cites examples of their work in everyday conversation. For instance, Barack Obama's sweep of the Iowa Democratic caucus engendered living room discussion of Cygnet's 2007 production of "Yellowman," a courageous play that addresses black-on-black prejudice based on darkness of skin.

"The revival of the Old Town Theatre as our new additional venue is so exciting on many levels," Murray said. "It promises to be a home for us where we can continue to explore and expand on the eclectic and surprising material that we have become known for, and perhaps more importantly reopen a beautiful San Diego cultural asset."

Knowing Murray and Schmidt, one expects the décor to improve decidedly, and many will be grateful for handrails in the steeply raked house.

The Old Town Theatre, formerly known as the Theatre in Old Town (dating from 1979) until it was shuttered a year ago, reopens in fall 2008 as part of Cygnet's as yet unannounced 2008-'09 season, presenting fare that Murray says will explore the assets of both the present Cygnet Theatre and the refurbished Old Town Theatre.

As part of Cygnet's agreement with the state, Cygnet will bring the Old Town Theatre up to code under the Americans with Disabilities Act, installing new lighting and sound equipment, remodeling the theater lobby and expanding restroom facilities. These improvements are expected to cost $370,000.

Currently in rehearsal at Cygnet is August Wilson's Pulitzer Prize-winning Broadway hit "Fences," directed by Delicia Turner Sonnenberg and featuring a fine company headed by Antonio T J Johnson and Sylvia M'Lafi Thompson. "Fences" opens in previews Jan. 17, with the official opening set for Jan. 26. The play will run through Feb. 24, followed by Stephen Sondheim's "A Little Night Music" March 13-May 4.

Cygnet is located at 6663 El Cajon Blvd. near Montezuma Road. For tickets and information, visit www.cygnettheatre.com or call (619) 337-1525.