FeedsConcert series boosts preservation effort
If things go according to plan, the Historic Wayne Theater will not only remain a fixture in the City of Wayne, it will spark redevelopment there.
That’s the goal of the redevelopment effort getting under way at the theater, on Michigan Avenue just west of Wayne Road, according to Don Nicholson, capital fundraising chairperson for the volunteer group.
“I think it could be quite a catalyst for an improved downtown,” said Nicholson.
It will take a substantial amount of money to bring back the theater, constructed and opened during the 1920s, when Wayne was the most prominent city along Michigan Avenue.
The preservation group kicked off the fund-raising effort in earnest on Sunday with a dinner benefit at Genitti’s Little Theater in downtown Northville.
Nicholson also has a series of concerts set up for every Saturday through the end of August, beginning on May 5 to generate funds for and awareness of the restoration project.
“We’ve tried to find something for everyone,” said Nicholson of the weekly concerts.
This week, the Livonia Civic Chorus will perform in a prelude to their own summer concert series, centering on music associated with one of the greatest fictional characters to grace the silver screen.
“They’re going to be doing a lot of James Bond theme music,” Nicholson said.
Another reason for the performance is to gain some notoriety for the chorus in this area. That could be important if the plan to restore the theater comes to fruition.
“They want to call this place home, when it reopens,” Nicholson said.
“They’ve been playing in different theaters all around the area and they’re looking for a place to call home,” he added. “This is a perfect venue for them.”
Nicholson and the volunteers have until September to get financing in place for the renovation of the theater or they have to turn the property over to the City of Wayne.
He’s estimated that it will take more than $150,000 to bring it back up to code and another $4 million to transform the property into his ultimate vision—a fully restored theater with a three-story development out front that houses a restaurant, shops and offices for a regional arts facility.
“Everyone in the City of Wayne will benefit if we’re successful, but we’re going to need some help,” he said.
