Sandusky State Theatre pulls in $2M

SANDUSKY — In an ongoing script chronicling the Sandusky State Theatre's resurrection, a major and unexpected positive plot twist just occurred. Late Wednesday, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted announced they're designating about $40 million in tax credits, through a historic state preservation program, to save certain storied structures statewide. Tops on the list: the iconic Sandusky venue, obtaining $2 million. A program statement, approved by Ohio's top two elected officials, offers some insight into the venue's need for funds. "The Sandusky State Theatre in downtown Sandusky has been continuously serving the community since its construction in 1928. Damage to the roof and walls from a storm in 2020 caused the theater to close and undertake the rehabilitation project," it read. "The stagehouse will be reconstructed to match the original that was destroyed, and the theater's audience chamber will undergo a thorough restoration," it continued. The applicant anticipates serving over 50,000 patrons per year once the project is complete, having a significant local economic and cultural impact." Theater personnel greatly appreciated the acknowledgment and award. "Obtaining these tax credits represents a significant step in our fundraising campaign and, more importantly, in the construction of the theater," theater board chairwoman Kim Redfern said. "The support we've received is overwhelming and shows us just how important the theater is to both the region's history and its future," Redfern added. "We appreciate everyone's interest and can't wait to welcome everyone back to a renovated state theater. Making sense of the dollars and cents Theater representatives noted the rebuild's total cost should total about $30 million. Here's a quick breakdown of money secured so far to build up this historic brick building: • A little more than half, or roughly $16.8 million, should be covered through an insurance payment. From this amount, $2.2 million still must be paid. • The venue obtained about $3.3 million in federal tax credits, an account helping to preserve historic structures. • The theater locked down about $2.35 million in fundraising dollars. This would include $250,000 from the Erie County Community Foundation. • Sandusky's government also contributed $1 million from stimulus funds it previously acquired for similar means. State theater personnel intend on continuing fundraising efforts, through a capital campaign, while simultaneously searching for other dollars to offset this balance, ranging between $6 million and $7 million today. With the unforeseen $2 million in state tax credits now locked down, this drops the outstanding amount to an amount ranging from $4 million to $5 million. "We are thrilled to have been awarded tax credits through the Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program," theater executive director Chris Parthemore said. "The Sandusky State Theatre certainly has a treasured history, and we have been diligent in our care for the building's past throughout this process," Parthemore said. "We look forward to continuing to tell our theater's story for many years to come." More updates Tuesday marked a milestone moment for the Sandusky State Theatre's next act. Construction work to build up, and not tear down, this landmark structure took place. Crews must replace some walls before excavation-related tasks can begin. Back in April, employees at and supporters of the Sandusky State Theatre — which opened in 1928 — broke ground on its long-awaited rebuilding process. After nearly two years, state theater personnel can finally shift their priorities: from fortifying a weakened structure and preserving key aspects to now reconstructing and resurrecting such a historical site. Many people, including Parthemore, beamed with pride talking about the theater's rebirth. It's expected to reopen sometime in 2023. Parthemore referenced the site's destruction occurring on June 10, 2020, when 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 damage. Following the groundbreaking, Parthemore 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. "It's been a long road to get to this point, and we are excited for these next steps in the process," Parthemore said. "Theaters are about coming together for a shared experience. We've been missing that these past few years, but seeing the community come together for the groundbreaking reminds us why we have to make sure the theater is set up to serve the community for decades to come."