HITW describes him as a "guardian angel."

According to Gene Tellier, HITW treasurer, Smigelski approached them when he heard they were looking for space.

"When he read that we were looking for space, we worked out a lease quickly.And he started referring grants to us," Tellier said. "He was doing whatever he could to help make the relationship work. He even helped out with demolition."

Smigelski modestly accepts being called a guardian angel. For him, it’s the love of theater and the New Britain community that motivates.

"I like the theater," he said. "I think it’s an excellent idea. I knew they wanted to be downtown and we both thought it was a good idea. They have a lot of energy and enthusiasm, and they are professionals, doing professional-level work, so I don’t mind having them as a tenant.

"I think it’s important that the community support them," he added. "There’s so much trash on television, and they have quality here. They are bringing a first-class outfit to New Britain."

HITW had been looking to move to the downtown area for several years, andthe space at 122 Main St. looked like the perfect spot. Tellier says that it’s just about informing the public.

"The downtown area is a better area for our patrons, there’s the parking garage, which is free after 5 p.m., and we can get more people into the performances," Tellier said. "I think that once the word gets out, the attendance will pick up. We’ve had a lot of people who have worked hard to help keep us open."

Originally, Smigelski showed HITW the third floor as an option for their company, but due to structural challenges, they decided that the first floor would be their new home. But there were unforeseen challenges with the first floor as well."At first, we said there will be no problem, but then we realized that the wall in the middle was a load-bearing wall," Smigelski said. "We had to move the wall, and put a support wall around the space. I would stop by on Saturdays and help out a little. It was very interesting. We found old kerosene lamps and old church bulletins from 1904."

Tellier believes that the dedication of Smigelski and the volunteers that helped the project move forward have helped save the theater. He says that people should expect the same quality of work with more comfortable seating in a setting that is very special.

Smigelski wants everyone in the community to support HITW.

"The beauty in the space is that it used to be a church. The ceiling is so high -- it’s twice the size of a normal ceiling," Smigelski said. "But it’s important that the community come out and support them. I don’t know why they call me a guardian angel. I just support them, that’s all. They are doing great things."

Franchone Fraser-Ben Reuben Bey can be reached at ffraser@newbritainherald.com or by calling (860) 225-4601, Ext. 306.