Emery Theatre revival continues

Opened in 1911, the Emery Theatre  marked its centennial with last fall’s preview and fundraising event, 11-11-11. Hosted by the Requiem Project, a non-profit organization on a personal and artistic mission to restore the Emery as a sustainable contemporary theatre, the event welcomed supporters and curious community members alike, providing a unique opportunity to view and experience this public gem. With the initial fundraising and awareness campaigns complete, the Emery Theatre is entering a new phase of development.

Since 11-11-11, Requiem Project co-founders and artistic directors Tina Manchise and Tara Lindsey Gordon have been working hard to advance the revitalization project to its next phase – preparing for significant upgrades to aged and outdated building infrastructure.

With a theatre that just celebrated its 100^th birthday, much needs to be done to bring the Emery up to modern building standards. Infrastructure such as HVAC, plumbing, an updated electrical system and ADA-compliant features must be addressed, including raising the capital required to fund the upgrades. Manchise and Gordon are confident that the capital campaign will be a success.

“The generosity shown by the arts community has been extraordinary,” says Gordon. Already the City of Cincinnati provided $150K to the historic Emery marquee, a gesture indicating significant public support. 

Talking to Manchise and Gordon, it becomes immediately evident that their commitment to the revitalization of the EmeryTheatre is as strong as ever. As plans for infrastructure upgrades and capital development are laid out, the two have also remained focused on quality artistic programming that the community can experience in the short term. Special events, locally produced shows and classes taught in the Emery’s educational wing provide a glimpse into the type of programming the theatre intends to offer in the future. In addition, the Requiem Project plans to unveil a new website by the beginning of April that features a timeline, as well as information on events and classes currently offered. 

Community partners such as Starfire Council, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, provide a unique type of collaboration that Manchise and Gordon intend to continue as part of the theatre’s ongoing mission. On May 12, the Emery will host Waddie Welcome & the Beloved Community, a play written by Starfire senior member Nikki Booker with playwright Catie O’Keefe and Jeni Jenkins. In addition, the Emery is a planned venue for the Cincinnati Fringe Festival, the Midpoint Music Festival and the Cincinnati Film Festival. There are several classes and workshops in development in the education wing, and look for upcoming information on the April 27 Final Friday.

“Stay tuned for a live music announcement,” says Manchise. 

Gordon and Manchise are already working on events for fall 2012, including 11-11-12 – the Requiem Project’s signature fundraiser. “This year’s event will be totally different than 11-11-11,” says Gordon. “We are anticipating an energy surge in the Emery,” adds Manchise.

“People have gone above and beyond in their support of the project,” she adds. “We really try hard to meet that generosity with 100 percent.”

Do Good:

• Donate professional skills. The Emery needs services like commercial plumbing and much more.

• Become a sponsor. Event and season sponsors are sought, or become a printing sponsor.

• Volunteer to help renovate the Emery.

By Deidra Wiley Necco