The Wieting Theatre in Toledo, Iowa. - Chronicle file

The Toledo Community Theatre Guild Board of Directors has launched a fundraising campaign to finance Phase II renovations to complete restoring the Wieting Theatre to its original grandeur. Phase I of the $1.4 million renovation of the Wieting Theatre was paid off in under 4 years in 2015. This was accomplished through the generosity of local businesses, individuals and the support of local and state grants. The committee has now started fundraising to reach our Phase II project goal of $1.2 million. This will again be funded by contributions and grants.

This renovation project includes:

Water and mold mitigation in the basement

Structural improvements to the roof, both to bring it up to code and to make the back-stage area safe

Improved stage lighting and rigging

New construction to provide a green room, restrooms, reception space, storage and set construction area,

Taken together, these renovations will greatly increase safety for movie-goers and people who attend other theatre events and protect the investment made in Phase I. It will also enhance the stage quality to attract new live theatrical events and provide opportunities for local talent to shine in the grand opera house!

The committee would like to ask you to consider pledging generously to the renovation project and continue being an active supporter of the Wieting Theatre, so that it will serve the community for another 100 years! The Wieting will recognize all those who contribute at or above the cost of a stage lighting fixture, each costing approximately $425, by placing your name on a plaque. Contributing to the renovation fund in the name of a relative or friend makes a truly meaningful and long-lasting gift. It’s also a great way to honor the memory of someone special who may have enjoyed the Wieting during their lifetime.

Attached as a .pdf you will find a pledge/donation card-please fill it out and return to the Wieting. Any questions, feel free to call Jim Roan at (641) 751-6822 or Michelle Evans at (641) 751-0775 for project details and donation options.

The Wieting Theatre continues to serve an important role in the culture of Tama County by providing theatre camp, local music and performance productions, hosting events for area schools as well as offering a regular schedule of movies. Over the decades, the Wieting Theatre has helped nurture the aspirations of many young artists who have gone on to have successful careers in the arts.

The Wieting Theatre is listed in the National Registry of Historic Places. In October, 2009, the Wieting was also designated as one of the Iowa Great Places. Anyone with a connection to Tama County has good reason to be proud of the recognized landmark in our community. This renovation will help maintain the Wieting as a functional landmark, open to the community and serving the people of Tama County and the surrounding area. The theatre is a place that encourages connectivity, community involvement, and pride.

The Wieting Theatre Guild has also received encouragement for our renovation project from the South Tama County School Board President, Michelle Yuska. She stated, “This is an exciting time for Toledo as the role of the arts in the vitality of our community is beginning to be recognized. With financial support, this plan has the potential to create a cultural future for our community and we look forward to many years of collaboration.”

The Wieting Theatre Guild is very thankful for the support of all our communities in the past and hope you take advantage of this opportunity for your donation to have a lasting impact into the future.