Frequently Asked Questions

 This theatre is a true gem in the heart of our downtown—rich in history, character, and potential. Unfortunately, the building has sat vacant for years and continues to deteriorate. Now is the time to act. By restoring it, we’re not only preserving an important piece of our community, but also creating a vibrant, accessible space for the arts. This renovation will bring film, live performance, and cultural events to people of all ages and backgrounds—both locally and beyond. 

 We’re making a number of exciting upgrades to transform the theatre into a flexible venue for both film and live performances. The stage will be extended to support live performances such as concerts, plays, and community events—not just movies. The balcony will be redesigned to include a mix of comfortable loveseats and single seating, creating a more inviting and versatile viewing experience. Seating throughout the venue will be larger and more comfortable, and we’re enhancing the concession area to offer a better selection and improved service. We’re also making the theatre more accessible for all guests, updating it with state-of-the-art projection, lighting, and sound equipment. These changes are all part of our commitment to creating a vibrant, inclusive space where the arts can truly thrive. 

 The timeline for completing the renovation depends on how quickly we can secure the necessary funding. In order to access our historic tax credits—which are a crucial part of our financing—we must first raise at least $1M in private donations. Once that goal is met, we’ll be able to move forward with construction on a 12-18 month timeline. Every contribution brings us one step closer to opening the doors! 

 We’ve diversified our funding strategy to take full advantage of the opportunities available to nonprofit organizations and historically designated buildings. Of the roughly $3M needed for the renovation, we aim to raise $1M through local private donations, $1M through state and federal historic tax credits, and another $1M through a combination of grants and loans. This balanced approach helps ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the project while keeping the community at the heart of it. 

 Yes—absolutely! There are several ways to support the theatre’s restoration. You can make a one-time donation of any amount, contribute to our annual fund with a recurring gift, or take part in our capital campaign through a legacy naming opportunity within the theatre. Every contribution, large or small, helps bring this vision to life and ensures the arts remain accessible in our community for generations to come.

If you’re interested in volunteering or getting more involved beyond donating, we encourage you to reach out to one of our board members. There are a variety of volunteer opportunities available, and your time and talents can make a meaningful difference in helping us restore and revitalize this beloved space. 

 We’ve had many positive conversations with organizations and state agencies about potential grant opportunities. These discussions have been very encouraging and have helped shape our funding strategy. Generally, grant funding serves as the crucial final push to complete projects like ours, and we are confident that grants will play an important role in bringing this renovation to fruition. We continue to maintain strong relationships and open communication with grantors to ensure we’re well-positioned to secure the necessary support. 

 Yes, definitely. Since a key part of our funding strategy involves historic tax credits, preserving the theatre’s historic integrity is essential. While the building will be updated with modern amenities and improvements, the restoration will honor and maintain the unique charm and character that make this theatre a beloved landmark in our community.