Ironwood Theatre to Host Open House August 11th

IRONWOOD, MI - Tuesday, August 04, 2009 - The Ironwood Theatre invites the Range Community to an Open House on Tuesday, August 11, beginning at 6:00 PM. The free evening of food & drink, entertainment & tours will feature a showcase of local talent.

Tours of the Theatre, from top to bottom, will be available from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. According to Tom Brown, volunteer Facility Manager, “This will be the first opportunity in many years for the general public to learn more about what happens behind the scenes during a performance or production.”

Currently, the Theatre is undergoing a new phase of restoration, returning the entry Concourse to its original state. Mirrored panels and vinyl wallpaper, applied decades ago in a modernization effort, have been removed by local volunteers Gene Schlais and James Mylly. Liberty Drywall staff and owners have donated their labor to restore a smooth plaster finish.

Theatre staff will talk about past and future restoration projects, aspects of Theatre operations, and the costs involved in keeping the historic Theatre functioning.

With the present state of the economy, particularly with the elimination of all arts funding in Michigan, volunteers are going to be vitally important for the future of the Theatre. New Volunteer Coordinator, Jackie Powers, will be conducting an orientation for new Volunteers beginning at 6:00 PM. Anyone interested in becoming a Theatre volunteer is welcome to attend.

Powers, retired from a 17-year position as an administrator in the Social Services field in Northern Illinois, said, "In the short time I’ve lived here, I’ve been amazed at how people turn out to assist in all kinds of projects. I’m excited about my role in the organization and look forward to meeting people to discuss how they can help the Theatre.”

Beginning at 7:30 PM, a number of area performers familiar to the public as accompanists and solo artists will be debuting their own compositions. Music will include blues and folk tunes, ragtime compositions for guitar, and new works for the piano.

Popcorn and other refreshments will be available free to the public.

The Theatre also announced that on September 3 it will again be holding Deli Day. Tuesday night will be he first opportunity for the public to place their orders for the fabulous corned beef or turkey sandwiches.