CCPA to vacate Red Brick and move to Fox

Tuesday, June 17, 2003

During its annual meeting held on June 9, the Community Council on the Performing Arts voted to vacate the Red Brick Playhouse, the former First Baptist Church, and move to its new location, The Fox Playhouse, at 110 South Main. The physical move is scheduled for June 20 and 21 with the first performance scheduled at the new location in early August. The local arts group purchased the Fox in August 2002 for $25,000 and has been in the fund-raising mode to renovate the historic building since that time. Although the Fox renovation project is not complete, the organization felt it was time to make the move two and a half blocks south. Charlie Johnson, CCPA president, said, "Economically, trying to operate two theater locations is not feasible. It's much cheaper to live in one house than two." Johnson continued, "Although the Fox is not finished it's important we make the move if for no other reason than to reassure those that have donated to the project, as well as those who are holding back to donate, that this undertaking is going to happen, and it's not just a dream of a bunch of local performers." The original fund-raising goal of $250,000 has been amended to $300,000 as a result of unexpected expenses in the renovation process. To date, $178,000 has been spent on the building project for materials, labor, subcontractors, utilities and insurance. That is the amount raised through donations by individuals, groups, businesses, corporations and foundations. Work to still be completed includes: gas line replacement, the rest rooms, construction of the green room/dressing room, the sidewalk from the emergency exit to the parking lot, and painting of the front of the building. Items which still need to be purchased include: air conditioner condensers, flooring and carpeting, stage drapery, wheel chair lift onto the stage, and electronics-speakers, amps, audio/visual players and dimmer bank. "Upon completion, this theater will be something the entire community can be proud of," Johnson said. "It will truly be an asset to Nevada's future." According to the CCPA, the Fox will not only serve the needs of the CCPA, but will be available for other functions throughout the year. With expected seating of nearly 250, The Fox Playhouse, will be utilized for plays, vocal concerts, children's performances, talent shows, royalty ceremonies, special events such as music concerts, movies, meetings, training, conferences -- the list goes on and on. "For nearly three decades the CCPA has provided enrichment to our community through continued enhancement of our quality of life" commented Johnson. The Community Council on the Performing Arts has a 501(C)3 status making all contributions tax deductible. For additional information on the Fox renovation project, to tour the facility or to make a donation to the building fund, call Lisa Nicewaner at (417) 667-8576 or Johnson at (417) 667-3328, write the CCPA at PO Box 754, Nevada, or e-mail at fox@nevadamoccpa.org.

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