Mayor to host Carson City theater re-opening gala

It’s going to be a true gala — food, champagne, a special private performance — to unveil the “new look” of the Carson City community theater. Mayor Robert Crowell and Susan Crowell are inviting you to enjoy a very special gala evening Feb. 12 in the newly revamped theater; however, seating is very limited.

Dedicated in 1974, the well-used theater has seen little in the way of cosmetic improvement, although there have been some important upgrades behind the walls to improve the quality of the productions. The only visible cosmetic improvement was done in 2010 when new carpet was laid after 36 years of wear and tear. The seats were original and repaired as needed and, after 44 years, it was time to retire the seats for wider and more comfortable seating to better be able to enjoy the many productions within the theater.

So excited is the community about the current remodel, the Carson City Chamber is coordinating the grand re-opening gala. Details are being handled by Susie Messina, chair; Linda Marrone; and Chamber board members Bob Fredlund and Lisa Lee. Susan Crowell serves as honorary chair.

More than just a gala, the funds will be dedicated to putting the all-important finishing touches to the lobby area to complement the newly renovated theater interior. There were just not enough funds to address this need to create a welcoming entrance. On the lobby make-over wish list are new lighting and door curtains as well as signage and a public address system. It is hoped the gala will raise enough funds for chandeliers and curtains. First impressions, after all, are everything.

Groups from Reno, Carson Valley, Dayton and Carson City love performing in this theater.

The Carson City School District is a prime user as well as the various theater youth and adult groups including the Broadway-style productions produced by the Western Nevada Musical Theater Company.

“The Bob Boldrick Theater has served our community well for many years but like all things, it has been showing its age. While we could always do more, the changes we make now will extend the life and usability of the theater for years to come. Thank you to all those who made this project a reality. Let’s enjoy celebrating this milestone in our community,” comments Robert Crowell.

The community center was built in stages with the gym as the first phase dedicated in 1969. The theater was dedicated on Oct. 23, 1974, when Eugene Scrivener was mayor. The architects were Perry G. Means and Thomas Wall.

Community partners have stepped up to the plate to create a wonderful event. Featured will be signature canapes from local restaurants: Bella Vita Bistro, Red’s Old 395, Mangia Tutto, Gather, The Basil, Café @ Adele’s, Carson Nugget and Sierra Chef. The restaurant offerings will be served by the students from the Carson City High Culinary program. Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits of Nevada is donating the Champagne and The Fox is donating their special brew and wines. Dutch Bros. is donating coffee. All are donating their goods and services so all funds can be directly donated for the refresh.

The Carson City office of Coldwell Banker Select is sponsoring a very special one-time production being planned by Stephanie Arrigotti of Western Nevada Musical Theater Company. This will be the first production to celebrate the completely renovated theater. The Silver Strings will perform during the cocktail reception. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception, followed by a ribbon cutting and then the surprise production.

Other kind sponsorships to date include cash contributions from Kilpatrick Bullentini Law Office, Kiggins Family Dentistry, and Café at Adele’s.

Seating will be limited to 200 persons with monies to be donated to refurbish the lobby. Black tie is optional and tickets are $50 per person available through the Chamber website at http://www.carsoncitychamber.com/index.php/spotlight/details/theater_gala or by calling 882-1565.