Galesburg’s historic theater has launched a campaign to raise $99,250 to unlock a matching state tourism grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.
The funds raised through “The Orpheum in a New Light” campaign will go towards upgrading the theater’s lighting system to industry-standard LED lighting.
“Meeting the state’s match is our first priority,” said Executive Director Andrew Driscoll in a release. “However, our broader goal is to build the capacity and operational strength needed to carry The Orpheum into its next century.”
Driscoll said any funds raised beyond the Orpheum’s required match for the state grant will go toward business infrastructure, ongoing physical maintenance, and the creation of a capital plan for the 111-year-old theater.
“The LED theatrical lighting upgrade is huge for The Orpheum and our local tenant partners. However, this campaign is about more than lights,” Driscoll said. “It’s about demonstrating that our community values The Orpheum as a sustainable, professionally-managed, beloved institution serving the entire region as its Civic Center.”
Donations can be made online, by calling (309) 342-2299, or by mail at 57 S. Kellogg Street Galesburg, IL 61401.
