TOLEDO, OH (WTOL) – The Ohio Theater, which opened its doors in 1921, has become the focus of a restoration fundraising campaign.
The North Toledo landmark, located on Lagrange St., is the city's last remaining Neighborhood Theater, owned by the neighborhood group United North Corporation.
Closed since 2009, the theater is about to come back to life, with new shows and activities scheduled for the fall.
The first phase of the fundraising effort has brought in a half million dollars in donations for a new roof, restrooms, and lighting, as well as air handling improvements. Also, the stage will be flattened out.
The theater is not only the Ohio Theater, but also the Ohio Theater and Events Center. It will also serve the community as a youth center.
Fifth Third Bank President and CEO Bob Laclair has volunteered to run the fundraising campaign. He plans to tap into other business and community leaders for donations, in order to reach the remaining $4.5 million needed for façade work and reduced seating.
"The community has been really good to us as a bank. This is just an opportunity for us to help enhance the neighborhood and give a little bit back to the community.' said Laclair.
The theater also hopes it will qualify for some historic tax credits, which could raise up to $2 million.
