The Liberty Theatre, home of Little Theatre on the Bay since 1959, has gratefully received a $35,000 grant from the Oregon Community Foundation to begin Phase IV construction and renovations which will include better accessibility at the theatre, and enhance the range of presentable shows. The grant to LTOB was contributed from three sources administered by the Oregon Community Foundation: Fred W. Fields Fund, Irene Gerlinger Swindells Fund and Blair A. Holman and Virginia I Tabor Fund. Oregon Community Foundation (OCF) puts donated money to work in Oregon – more than $100 million in grants and scholarships support Oregonians annually. For nearly 45 years, OCF grantmaking, research, advocacy and community-advised solutions have helped individuals, families, businesses and organizations create charitable funds to improve lives for all Oregonians. Impactful giving – time, talent and resources from many generous Oregonians – creates measurable change. Key elements of the Phase IV renovations include a lobby-level accessible green room and set construction area, so that cast, crew and band can move on a single level from the front doors to the backstage area and onto the stage, a blessing for those with mobility issues. Also addressed will be upgrading the fly loft to allow for more backdrops and scenes, and a new heating and cooling system to improve air quality in the historic theatre. Total cost for the project will be close to $500,000 with a completion date in mid-2020. Phase IV is part of a seven-phase capital campaign designed to complete all restoration work by the Liberty Theatre’s 100th anniversary in 2024. The campaign, which began in 2015, proceeds under the design guidance of George Kramer, Historic Preservationist and former Chair of the Oregon Heritage Commission, and LTOB’s Restoration Committee. To contribute financially to the restoration effort, LTOB has established the Liberty Walk of Fame at the outside front entryway. You’re invited to honor yourself or a family member or business with a tile inscription, available from $250 to $500 contingent on placement near the center Liberty Theatre logo. Other ways you can support this project include purchasing a name plaque on one of the new mezzanine windows, and for a substantial (tax-deductible) donation name, name the brand-new set construction area or green room. Pick up a flyer at the Liberty, or contact Jeanne at restoration@thelibertytheatre.org 541-267-4006. Little Theatre on the Bay is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
