In order to transform the Dryden Theatre into a top-shelf event space, Central Lakes College recently launched the Dryden Theatre Campaign to raise $130,000 for the following upgrades:
• New, more comfortable theatre-style seats.
• Better technical support with the addition of a sound/lighting booth.
• Improved visibility with new seating risers.
• Updated curtains, making the space more attractive and acoustically tuned.
ADVERTISEMENT
During his tenure at CLC, Bob Dryden (retired theatre director) proved to be a visionary with a goal to construct a flexible space theater, which could be used for a variety of performances and presentations. In 1991, the Black Box Theatre opened and was later renamed the Bob Dryden Theatre in honor of the man who imagined it.
Since then, the theater has seen more than 75 productions, ranging from one-man shows to full-scale musicals. It even held a 1998 gubernatorial debate, featuring Skip Humphrey, Norm Coleman and Jesse Ventura.
Once the much-needed upgrades are completed, audiences will be exposed to a wider variety of plays in the space, along with a new music series featuring selected professional artists whose talents will be best showcased in such intimate confines.
To date, just over $42,000 has been raised. And through the generosity of Dutch & Irma Cragun, gifts to this project will be matched, dollar for dollar, up to $50,000. Donations made prior to Dec. 31 can be claimed on 2017 tax filings and are 100 percent tax-deductible. Contributions will be accepted until March 31.
To donate, go to www.clcperformingarts.com and click on Dryden Theatre Campaign.
