The Wichita Orpheum needs to raise $14 million to move forward with renovations.
After sitting vacant for more than two decades, improvements have been made to much of the Orpheum’s interior since its reopening in 2002.
The auditorium itself, however, has barely been touched.
Jennifer Allen, president of the Orpheum, said rows of used seating were installed in the 1990’s. They sit on wood floors that are unable to hold newer, heavier seats. Overhead, holes and blemishes adorn the ceiling.
Allen says it’s time that changed.
“The Orpheum has waited 30 years for her restoration—for her time to come. And it’s time to get this theater done,” Allen said.
An extensive renovation, which would shut the theater down for about a year, is one of the final pieces in restoring the 93-year-old venue to its glory days.
Allen says they’ve already raised over a million dollars, but the fundraising effort is expected to take a few years.
Once they’re raised about 75 percent of the goal, they can close down and begin work on replacing the floor, installing new seats, and re-plastering walls and ceilings.
“We’re also going to expand the lobby,” Allen said. “That will include additional bathrooms, concessions and bar areas.”
The Orpheum is a non-profit organization that relies heavily on volunteers. They’re looking to individuals, organizations, city leaders and even out of state donors to raise the needed money.
Allen says the price tag is high, but it’s worth it. The Orpheum’s attendance last year hovered around 65,000.
“It’s really a miracle,” she said. “It was closed for over 20 years, almost torn down—Wichita is incredibly lucky to still have the Orpheum.”
Allen says they want the work completed by 2022, when the Orpheum turns 100.