Renovations of the Wallace Theater continue as a completion date nears with each passing day.
Between all the hands that have had a part in bringing the historic theater back to its former glory, the general estimated date for completion is February 2025.
While community members have had the opportunity to observe changes of the exterior of the building, the inside of the Wallace is where the main focus has been.
Currently, the crews are working on installing ceiling framing throughout the foyer and additional rooms adjacent to the auditorium. Once the framing is complete, cut outs will be installed followed by lighting and sheetrock.
Additional milestones that have been reached for the interior include all walls throughout being covered in sheetrock which consisted of a lot of patience and attention to detail. The stairway that leads to the second floor has been reconfigured and reconstructed.
The HVAC units have been set in their proper location. Also, a bulk of the work has been centered around steelwork and strengthening the auditorium ceiling without impeding where production lighting and the grand mural will be placed.
Independent Electric has been a part of the project since day one of renovations. Electrical work has been ongoing and a majority of the necessary electrical panels have been fitted into their necessary spots. The work of the crews was highlighted as there has been a lot of work focusing on detail in the framing aspect. Executive Director Alycyn Keeling explained that one of the biggest architectural features within the Wallace is the rounded edges and lines.
“I think the crews have done an amazing job as putting in those details can be very challenging from a construction standpoint,” said Keeling. “I am so excited and proud of everybody we have working on this project. Everytime I come down the crews are working hard and I hope everyone has a sense of how special this project is going to be.”
Highly anticipated milestones for the future include the restoration of the terrazzo in front of the entrance, the tile work that is needing to be done, the installation of carpet, the chandelier’s and the installation of the new murals. A lift elevator will be installed to allow full access to the second floor.
“We really want people to walk in and feel like it is an experience because of all of the details,” said Keeling. “Probably the heart and soul of this project is the murals as that was the thing so many people remembered about the Wallace.”
Plans for those murals have been in place for a prolonged period of time. Keeling is hopeful those murals will be received before the end of the year.
Once completed, the entire look and feel is based upon the mission statement of the Wallace.
“We want to create experiences that entertain, inspire and empower,” explained Keeling. “As soon as people walk through this lobby, we want them to be excited about the entertainment, inspired by the space and we want it to empower them as there have been so many that have invested in making this vision come true.”
Looking past the completion of the Wallace, a goal for sustainability is implementing a full catering kitchen in the additional space acquired by the Wallace.
Experience and Operations Director Jolenna Carter is working to create a path the Wallace can pursue to generate additional operational revenue outside of nonprofit income once doors open. While the Wallace will continue to pursue grants, the amount of leg work and time it takes to apply for those opportunities can be lengthy and that does not include the time it takes to receive approval or even the funds if approved. That is why it is important for the Wallace to develop additional revenue streams.
Possibilities include lunch service and extended food and beverage sales will be conducted as well. Rental opportunities will be available for areas such as the auditorium or the second floor mezzanine . Seating is moveable and can be adjusted to accommodate various occasions such as business luncheons, receptions, dinners, weddings, etc.
“We have a lot of fabulous areas that can be utilized once we open our doors,” said Carter. “This is a well-rounded venue for community members to visit and utilize it.”
Looking at the totality of the project, Keeling shared her heartfelt appreciation for those who have invested, financially supported, and lent a helping hand in any aspect regarding the Wallace project. It truly is a community built project.
In terms of fundraising, the project has accumulated just over $4.2 million dollars. The goal is to hit $5.5 million. With that goal still in mind, Keeling highlighted that naming rights are still available in several areas including individual seating.