Some Assembly Required

Bart Becker knows how to put the pieces together. Whether a wooden rocking horse or the entire set for a Broadway musical, Becker’s business is building things. His business, Rockin’ Concepts, was originally named after Becker’s handcrafted children’s rocking horses, but now focuses on set construction.

Bart has provided the backdrops for theater hits such as Thoroughly Modern Millie, Legally Blonde and Jersey Boys.

In 2000, business growth prompted Becker to look for a space of his own. He found and purchased a 12,000 square foot building on Barnum Avenue in Bridgeport’s East End. Prompted by the Park City’s property values and assisted by a Grow Bridgeport Fund (CommCap’s predecessor) loan, the Bridgeport building gave Becker the space he needed and the convenience of close proximity to his suppliers, including lumber, welding and electrical.

Always hands-on, Becker accomplished the renovation work himself, converting the former mustang showroom and upholstery company into an impressive workshop, suitable for assembling life-size stage projects.

Over the years, additional Grow Bridgeport loans have helped Rockin’ Concepts keep rocking. Recently, a new CommCap loan has enabled Bart to begin the building’s final renovations—4,000 square feet of storefront office space.
Since establishing his business to Bridgeport, Becker has noted steady improvement in the neighborhood, participating in the momentum by diligently maintaining and developing his own property. “It’s my building and I want to make it a beacon for the revitalization projects in the area. Maybe, somehow I can help spread the idea and bring major improvements to the area,” says Becker. As for Bridgeport’s future, Bart sees small businesses as the key. “It’s what drives the economy,” he says.