49 Franklin Reception Hall and Mystic Theater at 49 Franklin Street in Rumford is owned and operated by Scot and Cindy Grassette. They have a highly dedicated and supportive staff of approximately 10 people on a part-time and as-needed basis depending on the events that are scheduled through the week.

49 Franklin is available for private events by appointment, and special public events, performances, and celebrations throughout the year. The Grassettes purchased the former Methodist church in August 2003. They renovated it but kept the historical integrity of the building as they went along.

The Grassettes also live within the renovated, former classrooms that have been turned into cozy living space. They opened the venue in August 2010 for the Rumford/Mexico 80’s Super Reunion Social, which was an extraordinary way to kick off the business.

The Fernand Room is the largest room in the building. It’s where most of the weddings and large events occur. It is very fitting because many weddings have been held in that room for over 100 years. It boasts beautiful, 12-foot stained glass windows, hardwood floors, hand-carved woodwork and has a capacity for 170 people including room to dance.

Cindy always offers to help to plan, organize and give suggestions so that your event will be complete, and well thought out, and many people find that this helps eliminate stress and provides the best possible experience for a special event.

The Grassettes recently hosted the Homecoming 2014 produced by Tony Belskis featuring Ken Brady of the Original Casinos (“Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye”).

The Giovanni Room is the carpeted room with simple old world décor that welcomes and makes for a comfortable setting. Many rehearsal dinners, business meetings, seminars and other smaller events are held here. It also makes a nice entry room, and provides additional seating for larger events.

Mystic Theater is on the second level of the building. Access is from the upper back parking lot making the building ADA compliant on both levels. The stage is rounded in the front, complete with footlights and has professional sound and light systems.

The theater has hosted local, as well as national talent from all around including world-famous Vegas magician Jeff McBride, Mamas Wranglers, Kathleen Gorey McSorley, Leland Faulkner, The Squid Jiggers and more including dozens of local performers and artists.

The resident theater group Paper Moon Players directed by Keith A. Grassette has performed “The Odd Couple” (female version), “Steele Magnolias,” as well as children’s plays “Best Christmas Ever” and “Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown.” They are currently rehearsing “On Golden Pond” scheduled for Aug. 22, 23 and 29, 30.

One of the most popular performances is “Friday Night Live” featuring all original local material and players. The Mystic Theater is available on Sundays for wedding and baby showers as well as birthday parties with games, music for dancing, or a magic show by Scot.

Grapevine Catering Company is the exclusive provider of quality food for events and shows. The Grassettes are proud to maintain one of the most beautiful catering kitchens around. You can see everything through the large pocket window in the Giovanni Room. Delicious home-style meals are on the menu complete with real plates and utensils.

The Grassettes hold several fundraisers a year for local hardship cases. Scot said, “It’s always good to help someone out when you can.”

is the area’s only private catering hall. They strive to provide the best experience and focus on attention to detail. To find out more and check out their calendar of public events, go to 49franklin.com. For your next wedding, birthday party, anniversary party, reunion or other event, call 207-369-0129.

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