The Soo Theatre Project launched a $640,500 capital campaign on February 1, 2020, aimed at restoring the building’s exterior.
Former Downtown Development Authority Director Justin Knepper of Knepper Development Strategies is managing the project.
“It’s the last remaining historic theatre in our town” Knepper said. “Sault Ste Marie is one of the most historic places in Michigan. The theatre is really a catalyst for the restoration of the entire community. Having the theatre fully restored brings pride.”
Soo Theatre Executive Director Colleen Arbic is among the group of individuals who purchased the building in 2003.
“I initially joined when it was up for sale,” Arbic said. “It was going to the state for back taxes, and I couldn’t stand to see another building knocked down. We got a bunch of people together who were interested.”
It turned out that many were dedicated to saving the theatre, with the project having raised over a quarter of a million thus far.
“We owe a debt of gratitude to the many donors, countless numbers of volunteers, in-kind service contributors, board, committee members, and staff who have helped to upgrade the building,” Arbic stated in a press release. “All of these people have made it possible to stage productions and start an arts education program.”
According to Knepper, the theatre was constructed in 1930 and has undergone numerous alterations. After nearly one hundred years, both interior and exterior restorations are required for continued use.
The project is in phase one, which emphasizes the building’s exterior entrances, storefronts, upper windows, masonry work, emergency exits and other facets. Phase two is predicted to encompass interior projects.
Having opened for live performances and instruction in 2005, the structure’s original store fronts have been transformed into studios to teach music, theatre, and performance.
“We’ve made a lot of progress with the building over the years, like electrical and plumbing,” Arbic said. “Our stage in unusable in the winter because we are unable to heat the auditorium.”
As home to the Eastern Upper Peninsula (EUP) Festival of Voice, Piano, and Strings, its programs have certainly prevailed through a century of wear and tear. Summer camps are held annually. Classes are conducted throughout the year to teach dance, theatre, voice, creative writing and more.
According to the Soo Theatre website, Broadway musicals have blessed audiences with the performances of Annie, Oliver, South Pacific, Guys and Dolls, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Carousel, Fiddler on the Roof, Little Shop of Horrors, Camelot, The Music Man, The Wizard of Oz, Grease, and My Fair Lady.
In doing so, the theatre has inspired multiple generations to pursue the arts. As art programs have been cut from curriculum in many schools, Arbic hopes to make up for the loss.
“We are trying to reach people who want lessons,” Arbic said. “I see the arts as a wonderful way to gain confidence. Kids just really learn a lot from doing theatre. It’s a wonder experience. Some realize they have a desire to continue.”
Arbic added that she plans on working with nearby schools to develop lessons for youth with disabilities.
“We need space and money,” Arbic said. “Things are going better. It’s a very big building and it needs a lot of work.”
“We have music lessons and a fabulous voice teacher,” Arbic said. “But we are at capacity.”
Therefore, the upstairs apartments have already been gutted for phase two reconstruction.
It is Arbic’s dream to see the theatre restored to its 1940s glory.
“During the 40s, the theatre showed movies three times a day,” she said. “There was a seating capacity of 1,200. It was used a lot during World War II. The army was here to guard the locks, which were considered important.”
According to its website, the theatre achieved non-profit status through the State of Michigan in 2004. The Cool Cities grant was awarded to the theatre. Following the closure of Mackinac Crossings Theatre in 2006, approximately $400,000 in seats, stage rigging, lights, sound equipment, curtains, costumes, props, and sets were donated to the Soo Theatre.
Grants from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, along with the generosity of local businesses and patrons helped to fund roof repairs in 2018.
While there is still money to raise and much to be done, the show must go on.
A production of Candlelight Christmas was performed at the Holy Name of Mary Pro-Cathedral Catholic Church this past Saturday.
The Northern Accent Chamber Orchestra will perform at the church on Monday, Dec. 20.
Pledge support by sending a check to the Soo Theatre Project, Inc. at 534 Ashmun Street, Sault Ste Marie, MI 49783 or by website.
For further information, contact Knepper Development Strategies’ Justin Knepper at 906-630-0579.
