In these tough economic times, many Pennsylvania residents and companies have no doubt had to struggle to meet their financial obligations at one time or another. Some have even lost their home or business to foreclosure. In Pennsylvania, a theater that opened its doors more than 70 years ago was forced into foreclosure last year, but thanks to new owners the theater will no longer sit empty.

Local arts leaders and the Broadway producer responsible for the revival of "Driving Miss Daisy" recently came together to reopen the theater in time for the 2012 summer season. The owners say they are excited to reopen the theater, but couldn't have done it without the help of the local community.

The theater originally opened in 1939, but it has seen its fair share of ups and downs since then. The previous owner reportedly made false insurance claims for flood damage to the theater in 2006. He was subsequently indicted on those charges. In late 2010, the bank foreclosed on the property.

According to the news source, three other theaters were also owned by the previous owner at one time. All three of the theaters were destroyed by fires. The owner denied any wrongdoing, and collected insurance payouts for two of three destroyed theaters.

In this case, foreclosure not only affected the owner of the theater, but also the local community. Although the theater is once again open, these kinds of happy endings don't always happen.

Foreclosure can be devastating, but there are ways to prevent it. Those in Pennsylvania who are facing foreclosure may wish to seek legal advice to determine what options may be available to them.

Source: Times-Herald Record, "Beloved Bucks County Playhouse to reopen in summer," Dec. 28, 2011