Cranston native Andrew D. Cohen loves the theatre. He especially loves what is happening at Warwick’s Ocean State Theatre Company.

“I had been a Theatre-by-the-Sea patron for decades,” he said. “I was so upset when the theatre went dark, and so pleased when Amiee Turner and Joel Kipper took over.”

Andy followed them to their new venture in Warwick and was impressed with their first OSTC production of “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.” He joined the Board in 2008 and offered his business expertise to the group.

Cohen refers to himself as a “Business Sage,” having run his own printing and graphics business. He now runs bookkeepers-PLUS, a business growth service in Coventry, where he specializes in helping non-profits succeed.

“I tell them that I’ve already made the mistakes and can help them avoid them,” he said. “I felt that I had something to contribute to Ocean State Theatre, offered my input, and found myself deeply involved. I’m not artistic, but I love the theatre.”

Cohen became treasurer of the board before accepting the role of chairman.

“What they do is remarkable,” he said. “And they are so important to the community, both artistically and economically. They affect the restaurants in the area. They fit into Warwick’s intermodal plan. They reach out into the schools. They are year-round. They provide over 75 jobs. Supporting OSTC is a no-brainer.

“The theatre is presented on such a high level,” he continued. “Their production of ‘Les Mis’ was incredible. We have seen a steady increase in attendance and donations. I talk about this wonderful place everywhere I go.”

Indeed, Andy hardly took a breath, singing praises about the theatre. We sat in the lobby as cast and crew members for the upcoming production of “My Fair Lady” gathered for a rehearsal of the musical’s songs around the piano, each stopping to say “hello.”

Cohen sees the theatre continuing to attract top talent, both locally and from the New York City acting community.

“We’re always looking for creative ideas. At every performance, Amiee or Joel asks how many people are here for the first time, welcoming them to return and bring their friends,” he said. “We are also attracting outside groups to use the theatre, and we are holding one-night events with singers and comedians. A recent comedy night attracted a huge audience, most of who had never been in the theatre.”

“Our board is totally committed to the theatre,” he said. “We also have an Ambassadors Club that works to bring new people to our productions as we continue to fill the seats.”

Andrew D. Cohen is a believer and a doer. He spends a great deal of his time at the theatre, working with the board and staff and providing his business acumen.

He’ll be in the front row for “My Fair Lady,” which opens this week and runs through October 19. For reservations call 921-6800. The theatre is located at 1245 Jefferson Blvd. in Warwick. Come and join him.