SIDNEY — The transformation of the Sidney Historic Theatre continues as the newly-restored stage house was dedicated Thursday evening.
“It is an honor to be standing on this stage which has been newly equipped with the necessary rigging and electrical service for future stage productions. This wouldn’t have been possible without civic-minded people like yourselves making a positive difference in the arts and in our community,” said Sarah Barr, executive director of Raise the Roof for the Arts/Sidney Historic Theatre, told those present for the dedication.
The evening was set aside as a time to showcase the contractors and the volunteers who helped transform the stage box. Funding for this phase of the restoration was provided by a grant from State of Ohio and funding coming from the community through various campaign efforts.
“I’m pleased with the progress and how everything has turned out great,” said Jessica DeLong, Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC) grants administrator. “I’m looking forward to seeing the completion of the theatre.”
DeLong, who was present for the ceremony, said she oversees 100 projects to bring life to existing buildings throughout the state.
“This is my passion,” said DeLong. “I live seeing the buildings come to life and preserving their history for future generations.”
DeLong said a building such as the Sidney Historic Theatre will also be able to bring the arts to a small community, which is important.
The general contractor for this phase of the project was Westerheide Construction Co. The architects, who have worked on the project since the beginning, are Freytag and Associates.
The electrical company involved with the project is Slagle Mechanical. The stage rigging company who helped restore the stage is Tiffin Scenic Studios. Piqua Steel provided and installed the beams that hold the stage up. The HVAC and electrical system work was designed by Nauman & Zielinski.
“As we continue to move forward in our efforts to complete the project additional funds are still required for the final phase,” said Barr. “(Another) $800,000 is still required to bring the Historic Sidney Theatre to its full glory and to provide the community with a beautifully renovated cultural arts facility.
“As you came into the building, you may have noticed that there is another project underway converting the storefront east of the entrance into an office for the theatre. And the process continues…”
Barr said the work on the theatre couldn’t have been accomplished without the volunteer and community support Raise the Roof for the Arts has received.
“The vision to transform the Historic Sidney Theatre is happening and one day this glorious space will not only be a first class facility in which to experience the arts, but also as a gathering place for our community,” said Barr.
Raise the Roof for the Arts was formed in 2009 with the sole purpose of rescuing and restoring the Historic Sidney Theatre. Once the organization acquired the theatre, a board of individuals embarked on a journey to return this facility to its original roots as a performance venue.
