The Sioux Falls State Theatre
28 September 2008
No Comment
The Sioux Falls State Theatre was an amazing accomplishment for the City when it opened in 1926. It was constructed by M.L. Finkelstein and I.H. Ruben whom also owned approximately 90 other theatres in the Midwest. The theatre was a very popular place to go for the 68 years that it was open.
The State Theatre closed in 1994 after being badly damaged by flooding and general misuse. Having been vacant and untouched since, the theatre has a lot of work needed to bring it back.
In 2005 the Sioux Falls State Theatre Company was formed and they purchased the State Theatre from the Sioux Falls Film Society. The have put a multi-step plan in place to eventually rebuild the State Theatre and open it to the public. The plan is a 6 step plan and currently they are on step 4.
The plan to rebuild the State Theatre is as follows:
Phase 1 (2002-2004)
The Sioux Falls Film Society purchased the State Theatre and replaced the roof for $375,000.
Phase 2 (2005-2006)
The SFFC raised funds and was able to replace the State Theatre Marquee on the front of the building to raise awareness of their project and the theatre itself.
Phase 3 (2006-2007)
The facade of the building was restored to much like its original appearance with the use of locally donated funds.
Phase 4 (2008-2009)
The inside lobby will be restored and be able to grant public access to the entrance of the theatre. There will also be space available for a small retail business and a promotional center for the State Theatre.
Phase 5 (2009-2011)
The auditorium will be restored to allow seating for 500 people. The theatre will be digitally equipped to allow for the showing of select films.
Phase 6 (2011-2012)
The stage will be reconstructed and outfitted. Also the balcony will be renovated to allow for an additional 400 seats. There will be office space available on the top floor.
Once the State Theatre has been reopened to the public it will be used as a theatre for both movies and stage performances. The Sioux Falls State Theatre company is accepting donations to fund the renovation.
Please let us know if you see anything wrong,
or would like to ask us a question. Contact The Soo Foo
