Main Sections

Town Hall Theater Meets $5 Million Challenge

Tuesday January 15, 2008

  After ten years of hard work, Town Hall Theater, Inc. has reached its capital campaign goal of $5 million.  The historic theater is scheduled to re-open in the summer.

   A key reason for the group's success is a $500,000 challenge grant made by anonymous local donors in July, 2007.  If the group could match it, it would have enough money to complete the restoration.

   There was just one catch:  the match had to be made by December 31, 2007.

   “That gave us only five months to raise the final $500,000,” says THT executive director Douglas Anderson.  “But the community really responded to the challenge.”

   THT's Capital Campaign Committee got to work.  Chaired by Peggy Keith and Bruce Baker, the group began contacting individuals and businesses throughout the area.  The high point was a two-night phonathon in November that netted over $50,000.

   “The phonathon was really rewarding because it reminded us how much the community is behind this project,” says Anderson.  “We'd call people and they'd say, 'It's a great project and I was just waiting for someone to ask me to help.'”   

   Work has begun on the facility, including the construction of a small wing that will house a backstage area, mechanical rooms, and office space.  Local firm Bread Loaf Corporation is the designer and builder.

   The grand re-opening this summer will correspond with the building's 125th birthday.  Celebrations are in the planning stages.

   When the building re-opens it will house plays and concerts, but also wedding receptions, business meetings, and gatherings of all sorts.  For information about booking Town Hall Theater, call 388-1436

Printer Friendly

Top

Advertisements

Search our Archives