Members of the Bell School of Irish Dance christen the stage Thursday during a ribbon cutting event at the newly renovated Rotary Amphitheater in Cranberry Community Park.

CRANBERRY TWP — As dancers took the stage Thursday afternoon at the Rotary Amphitheater in Cranberry Community Park, it was the culmination of a year’s work.

The amphitheater, selected as the Project of the Year for the Cranberry Township Community Chest for 2020 and later extended through 2021, received major renovations, going beyond a facelift. Electric lines were laid, the roofline upgraded and the amphitheater was made more accessible as part of improvements to the nearly 20-year-old fan-favorite performance facility.

That work has come as the result of charitable gifts and community partnerships, according to the township. Accessibility improvements planned for the venue are possible due to a grant from the Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust, and other donations came from the Cranberry Sunrise and Noon Rotaries.

First Energy made a grant, and Armstrong became a sponsor of the amphitheater for the next six years.

“Cranberry is built on community involvement and partnerships, and this is just another example of that commitment,” said Dan Santoro, Cranberry township manager. “Armstrong has long been one of Cranberry’s biggest supporters, and we are beyond thankful for their support in helping us make the township a desirable place to live, work and play.”

And, of course, the amphitheater — essential to the annual summertime event — will be open for the Cranberry Community Days in July.