Legacy Theater donors pass $75,000 match challenge, allowing for cost-saving measures

CARTHAGE, Ill. — Donors in the region were up to the challenge presented by the Legacy Theater. In June 2024 as a $75,000 matching challenge fund was announced on behalf of The Legacy Theater in Carthage.

In a press release, Doug Groth, president of The Legacy Theater Foundation board, said, “Thanks to the support of this region, as the year ended, donations not only reached but exceeded the $75,000 matching challenge goal. We are so pleased with the response we have received for this campaign. Gifts of all sizes have shown a broad support for our efforts at the theater.”

The $75,000 matching challenge fund was started by a $25,000 pledge from Connie Dyer of West Point, Iowa, and added to by Groth and an anonymous donor, who each pledged $25,000. As of Jan. 2, donations and pledges made by businesses and individuals from the region have topped $80,000. Donations came from several states and many towns in the tri-state area.

The matching fund and donations were designated for cost-saving measures at the theater. The additional donations above the $150,000 will be used for other needs and programming.

“We expect that these cost-saving steps will allow us to do more in the way of programming and bringing quality live entertainment to the theater,” Groth said.

Improvements have already begun with 165 solar panels being mounted on the roof of the theater. Mohrfeld Electric based in Fort Madison, Iowa, was selected to do the solar panel installation after the theater considered several regional suppliers.

“Mohrfeld Electric’s bid was selected based on their cost, their solar panel proposal fit our roof space, and they have a history of working with non-profits on state solar grants,” Groth said.

Two years ago, the 30 percent tax credit was made available to not-for-profit organizations setting up solar systems.

“This is a newer component of solar energy,” said Mike Mohrfeld, president of Mohrfeld Electric. “We have done three or four projects for non-profits.”

The project was designed to generate only what the theater needs. Energy is banked from month to month over each year.

“I appreciate what you guys are doing,” Mohrfeld added. “As energy costs rise, you have gotten out in front of utility inflation. It is tough to fundraise for operating costs, but when you are fundraising for sustainability, those are things people can rally around.”

Legacy Theater board treasurer Andy Bastert said past electric bills had averaged $1,000 per month and are now around $80.

In addition, the theater recently purchased sound equipment that was previously rented for each show. With the upgrades to the sound system and purchase of equipment that no longer needs to be rented, operating costs per show will be reduced.

The 2025 theater schedule begins at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 24, with classic country by Little Texas.

On Feb. 1, performances of The Wizard of Oz at 1 and 6 pm., produced by Missoula Children’s Theatre, will feature local student actors. Auditions are Monday, Jan. 27.

Tickets for the 2025 season can be purchased at The Legacy Theater box office from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to Friday. At other times, call the theater and leave a message at 217-357-9479, or purchase tickets on line at www.thelegacytheater.com.