The purpose of a theatre ghost light is uncertain. Some say it is a safety measure; others argue it keeps spirits away, and a few believe it allows ghosts to put on their own performances while the actors and audience are away. Beginning this week, Modern Methods Brewing Company and Kent State Trumbull Theatre will settle the matter when they launch Ghost Light Porter.
Available on draft and in cans and through wholesale accounts beginning Wednesday, Nov. 2, Ghost Light Porter is a classic American Porter brewed with six different specialty malts for a complex flavor profile evoking chocolate, hints of nuts, and finishing with dark fruit. A moderate hop profile of nugget and cascade keeps Ghost Light eminently drinkable.
The launch celebrates the partnership between Modern Methods and Kent Trumbull Theatre. Every first Wednesday of the month for the past year, patrons gather to listen to actors read aloud a script written by a local playwright and enjoy craft beers. Sips and Scripts has become a popular escape for many in the area.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kent Trumbull Theatre's ghost light continued burning for over 18 months in testament to the fact that it would reopen, which it did, last fall.
Excited to get back to theatre productions and to celebrate the campus' new theatre degree, Eric Kildow, assistant professor and Kent State Trumbull Theatre director, approached Adam and Sarah Keck, owners of Modern Methods, in the summer of 2021 with an idea to connect local theatre and craft beer.
The Kecks instantly loved the idea of creating opportunities for the community to get together and enjoy craft beer and the arts — especially original, local art.
"We're always looking for ways to support local art, so when Eric came to us with the idea of a collaboration, we were entirely on board," Sarah Keck said. "Our goal with Ghost Light Porter was to brew a porter (one of Eric's favorite styles) worthy of enjoying at intermission for attendees and thespians alike."
A portion of each Ghost Light Porter sold supports the theatre. The label features artwork by Elijah DuPonty of Youngstown.
This Wednesday's Sips and Scripts reading is “Hey! Where's Charlie?” written by Edward J. Walsh and directed by Brian Westerley. The reading begins at 7:30 p.m.
Modern Methods is a craft brewery and tasting room located at 125 David Grohl Alley in downtown Warren. It opened in 2018, becoming the first brewery in downtown Warren since 1880.
For more information about Modern Methods, visit https://modernmethodsbrew.com.
For information about Kent State Trumbull's Theatre programs, visit www.kent.edu/trumbull/theatre.
