After more than two decades of fundraising and planning, the former Dixie Theater in Staunton could open its doors later this year.
The nonprofit Arcadia Project signed a construction contract to begin work on the event space with an initial round of improvements to be completed some time in December.
A groundbreaking ceremony will be held Feb. 24 at 11 a.m. at the former downtown theater, located at 125 E. Beverley St. in downtown Staunton, to formally kick off construction.
The space will host live music, dances, children’s shows, lectures, weddings, corporate events and more.
“It has been a labor of love to work on the reconstruction of this important Staunton landmark,” said Elizabeth Respess, Arcadia Project board president. “Together with our board of directors and many volunteers and donors, we are moving forward toward our goal of re-opening the theater for music, dance, education and films.
“Its opening will add to the vibrant arts and entertainment scene that exists already in downtown Staunton,” she said.
The project will be completed in two phases.
Phase one will include the event space, a backstage area with dressing rooms and a green room for artists, ADA restrooms and updated front-of-the-house facilities including a 36-seat café.
Phase two will add an 87-seat theatre, multimedia classrooms, a podcasting space and a wheelchair lift to the second floor.
“Arcadia’s plan to renovate the historic theater promises to bring renewed vitality and opportunities for community engagement to our walkable, award-winning downtown,” said Michele Edwards, Staunton mayor.
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- Arcadia Project receives $1.5 million in grant funding; venue expected to open in 2025
- Staunton receives $100K state grant for Arcadia Project
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Crystal Graham
