The Sierra Community Theatre held an open house on Saturday, Sept. 27, to celebrate its reopening after several weeks of interior renovations. Guests toured the updated lobby and auditorium, where they saw the new carpet, tile, and lighting. But the real stars of the show were the faux-leather rocker chairs that replaced the auditorium’s decades-old seating.
The event drew an estimated 70 people and featured live music by local musician Jennifer Powers, along with remarks from Sierra staff and board members. “We have touched almost every part of this auditorium and lobby,” said Andrew Woodley, vice president of the Sierra board, in describing the work completed so far. Some additional improvements, largely behind the scenes, will be completed in the next few months.
The renovation work has been made possible by a $100,000 Grow Greene County grant awarded earlier this year. The Sierra board pursued the grant after securing hundreds of lightly used seats from the former AMC in Johnston. Eternity Church, which had purchased the Johnston megaplex, planned to dispose of the seating, and Woodley negotiated a deal that Sierra executive director Sarah Nicholson describes as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Gratitude was a central theme of the open house. “None of what we have accomplished today would have been possible without the incredible volunteers and local contractors who offered their time, talent, and hard work,” Nicholson said. “The community has been very supportive and excited regarding this change, and we look forward to seeing everyone in the coming weeks.”
Board president Clancy Clawson highlighted the Sierra’s unique role: “The Sierra isn’t an AMC or a Cinemark in an old building. We are a nonprofit, and we wouldn’t exist without continuing community support.”
Nicholson also reminded attendees that the Sierra’s annual fundraiser is underway through the end of the year, with a goal of raising $50,000 for operating expenses, including funds to offset lost revenue from the September closure. Project-based grants cannot be used for day-to-day operations.
The Sierra is now open regular hours Wednesday through Sunday, with shows at 7 pm nightly and a Sunday matinee at 2 pm.
Community members who wish to support the Sierra can mail donations to Sierra Community Theatre, PO Box 346, Jefferson, IA 50129.
