State theater gets $450K

SANDUSKY — For nearly a century, the Sandusky State Theatre has hosted many shows, plays and productions, often telling stories across a three-act structure. And, in an attempt to lure more prominent and lucrative performers, those overseeing the iconic venue can expect to receive financial aid over a three-year installment plan. During a recent public meeting, city commissioners agreed to commit $450,000 in equal payments — $150,000 later this year, $150,000 in 2025 and $150,000 in 2026 — specifically for the downtown venue. This follows a previous agreement, executed in 2021, indicating city commissioners would provide this money for a specific purpose. "The grant dollars will support the state in bringing larger shows to the area during the shoulder and offseasons and serve as a backstop so they can take a risk on larger shows and re-establish and grow their audience locally, regionally and beyond," said Colleen Gilson, the city's community development director. The $450,000 earmarked adds to what Sandusky's government previously provided the theater: $1 million toward restoring and expanding this downtown venue in 2023. It comes from a pot of money in a $100 million deal the city partnered on with Cedar Point for various upgrades across Sandusky. Regarding the $450,000 grant, state theater representatives will receive $150,000 later this year. But before receiving the balance of $300,000 in 2025 and 2026, they must provide progress reports to justify this public subsidy. "The Sandusky State Theatre will present an annual report to the city commission, which includes information related to the impact of the grant dollars, such as the number of shows supported, attendance, figures and any additional information available as to the economic impact from events produced in the reporting year," Gilson said. Chris Parthemore, the theater's executive director, noted how his venue "has never had dedicated programming funds." "These funds are designed to allow the theater to bring in larger-scale acts, particularly during our fall and winter seasons," Parthemore said. As an example, in 2019 when the theater brought in the Roots & Boots tour, guests from 14 different states attended this one show. "Pre-COVID data shows us that larger-scale acts are what patrons travel for and attract more out-of-town visitors, which is especially important during the winter," Parthemore said. Scheduling those shows could take place in the near future once reconstruction on this local landmark nears completion. The state theater's overall rebuild totals about $35 million, which comes from city funding in addition to grants, state tax credits, donations, insurance compensation and other funding sources. When could it open? On June 10, 2020, a sudden devastating windstorm ransacked through the illustrious structure, causing a collapse of its roof and walls. Several quintessential theater amenities — including the signature wall, signed by many famous entertainers and musicians; the chandelier; and the marquee sign — somehow didn't sustain any substantial damage. Following an April 2022 groundbreaking, officials released specific details and artist renderings imagining this venue's new look, consisting of more modern amenities, a bigger stage, a better amphitheater and other upgrades all geared toward providing guests with a better experience. Since then, work has continued to get this space ready for shows. Among the most positive developments as of late: Crews recently finished installing the state's rigging system. It's a system of equipment used to secure lights, curtains, scenery, audio equipment and/or other technical needs above the ground in a theater. So when could the State reopen? Parthemore said he's not providing an exact or even estimated time frame for when the state theater could reopen. Complicating matters: The state originally opened in 1928, and many elements of reconstruction, due to grant and state tax credit stipulations must appear as it did 100 years ago. Other issues, including with supply chain issues, have delayed the overall process as well. "Rebuilding the theater is also a marathon and not a sprint," Parthemore said. "That said, we, too, are getting close to the finish line." Parthemore promised to inform the public of a reopening date when he's absolutely certain.