Soo Theatre Project Announces Start of "Legacy Fund" Campaign

Above, David Firack (President/CEO of Old Mission Bank) eagerly reaches for the commercial loan contract in the hand of Jack Bradway, Executive Director of Soo Theatre Project. Moments later, Firack ceremonially shreds the now-paid-in-full loan contract. Photo courtesy of Tom Robinson.

Wednesday night marked a milestone and new beginning for one local business. Soo Theatre Project hosted many guests as it celebrated paying off the loan from Old Mission Bank that made saving the historic downtown theatre possible. Simultaneously, Soo Theatre Project unveiled ambitious plans for the future.

Since reopening the doors three years ago, Soo Theatre Project has thrived through a mix of arts instruction and live summer performances. Indeed, support for the endeavor has been overwhelming. Arts classes are bursting at the seams, while the stage is in high demand. Maybe the most interesting part of this story is that only a portion of the Soo Theatre building has been renovated. The rest of the building is unfinished, and in fact lacks heat.

Here is where ambitious plans for the future come into play. On Wednesday night, Soo Theatre Project announced that it is going on a $1 million capital campaign – The Legacy Fund. Money raised will be used to turn the second floor of the building into 3,000 square feet of dance and music studio space; build restrooms and install an elevator; hang lights and curtains in the auditorium; and most importantly, heat the 80% of the building that is the same temperature as outside. In short, The Legacy Fund will facilitate the year-round use of the entire Soo Theatre.

Along with unveiling these ambitious plans, a special announcement was made at the Wednesday night gathering. To spur a successful Legacy Fund campaign, a $50,000 challenge was made by one individual prior to Wednesday, and has already been met with $25,000 in matching gifts. Bolstered by the emphatic response to the Legacy Fund announcement and community demand, construction of the second-floor dance studio will begin in honor of Clara Noyes.

Much is happening at the Ashmun Street theatre. What once was merely old is now historic and alive. Thanks to a multitude of supporters across the Eastern Upper Peninsula, a Legacy of the arts will be ensured for generations to come.

Donate to the Legacy Fund today!

Photos from the celebration