The Grand Kicks Off 2018 Fund Drive, Celebrates 90 Years of Performing Arts

The Grand Theater is kicking off its annual fund drive campaign to help support the performing arts in North Central Wisconsin. 90 years after its opening night on November 24, 1927, we still rely heavily on the support of the community to make our mission possible. The fund drive will run until June 30, 2018, giving donors the chance to be part of The Grand’s family of supporters who inspire and fuel our strong tradition of performing arts excellence and service to the region.

 

Take a look at the history of The Grand Theater throughout the years! Opening its doors in 1927, The Grand Theater celebrates nearly a century of the performing arts. The Grand Theater has served the community for the past 90 years by evolving to meet the needs of the area, and we need your support to make sure it remains an extraordinary place to come together and experience the arts for the next 90 years. Be a part of The Grand's story. Donate Today. #PartofOurStory

Posted by Grand Theater Wausau on Monday, February 12, 2018

 

2017 was a momentous year for The Grand with many outstanding accomplishments. We were recognized as one of Pollstar’s Top 150 Theaters in the World; we created the inaugural Tommy Ensemble, a performance ensemble made up of the best high school musical theatre talents in the area; we expanded our community engagement efforts with film screenings, historical exhibits and dance classes; and we welcomed 132,000 patrons through our doors, including an astounding 4,800 who experienced the historic venue for the first time.

Many know The Grand foremost as presenter of world-class performing arts. With the Beach Boys, Grammy winner Kenny G, and two Tony Award winning Broadway musicals gracing the historic Grand Theater stage just this year, The Grand brings the best performances to residents of not only Marathon County, but 66 surrounding counties as well. Our Arts In Education Series brings curriculum-based performances to over 18,000 area students and provides hundreds of scholarships to students who cannot afford the $5 ticket. The Access For All program provides tickets to evening shows for low-income families.

“These are great times at The Grand, and we are working hard every day to continue the 90 years of excellence at this incredible venue,” said Sean Wright, Executive Director. “Your support truly makes it all possible—from presenting diverse offerings of the best in arts and entertainment to impacting North Central Wisconsin through a multitude of unique community engagement programs.”

Even in the most successful of Seasons, The Grand relies on the community for over a third of our annual budget. With donations through the fund drive campaign, we are able to engage the best artists, create meaningful engagement opportunities, keep ticket prices reasonable, and develop memorable experiences for all patrons.

“Donations to our fund drive allow us to go above and beyond simply presenting shows,” said Melanie Schumann, Director of Marketing and Development. “The support of the community is what makes The Grand a place for everyone to experience the power of the arts.

The Grand Theater has been a cornerstone of the Wausau community for nearly a century. With the generous support of community arts advocates, The Grand will continue to be Central Wisconsin’s home for the arts, culture, and community for years to come.

Click here to learn more about our mission or make a donation today.

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