The Legacy Theater in Carthage is hoping to raise a chunk of money that will help them save money in the future, in part through renewable energy.
Executive Director Tom Robbins said three donors have pledged $25,000 each for a matching fund totaling $75,000.
The theater’s goal is for the community to match that with additional donations to reach the goal of $150,000.
“We’ve already raised close to $30,000 in matching money. If that’s doubled, that’s $60,000,” Robbins said. “So just a month in, we’re not too far away from halfway to our goal.”
The challenge campaign runs through Dec. 31.
Robbins said some of the money will go toward installing solar panels on the theater’s roof.
“Which will help us save thousands of dollars in electric costs in the years and decades ahead,” he said. “We think that will be a good investment because in turn we’ll be able to use those dollars for other things that support our mission.”
The rest of the money would go toward purchasing equipment for the theater. Robbins said the theater currently rents sound equipment for most shows.
The Legacy also announced the first half of its 2025 lineup with a goal of expanding programming under Robbins’ leadership.
Ten shows are planned from January to June, culminating with what Robbins said is considered the headliner event – “An Evening with Kelsey Grammer: Remembering the Life & Legacy of John Mahoney” on June 21.
Grammer, a Golden Globe and Emmy Award winning actor, will present an intimate fireside chat celebrating memories of his fellow actor, Mahoney, who played his father Martin Crane in the TV series “Frasier.”
Mahoney has ties to Carthage and earned a master’s degree from Western Illinois University.
The event is presented in memory of actor John Mahoney and his sister, Rita Mahoney Sullivan, with generous support provided by Dan and Kacey Sullivan.
“We’re really excited about having Kelsey Grammer as part of the season this year,” Robbins said.
Other shows include tributes to John Denver and James Taylor, a production of the “The Wizard of Oz,” and a performance by country music’s Pam Tillis.
More information about the 2025 season is available on the theater’s website.
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