Since the August 2020 derecho ripped through Marshalltown, the playhouse has been out of commission as significant damage was caused. According to MACC Executive Director Kristine Kienzle, there was severe damage to the roof, windows and part of the structure. The worst damage was done to the exterior, which led to interior water damage and the need for extensive repairs to ensure the safety and integrity of the building.

Progress has been made on repairs and improvements, but it’s been a long process due to the severity of the damage and funding challenges.

“The roof has been repaired, and some structural work has been done to stabilize the building,” she said.

The seating was immediately cleaned and preserved following the water damage so the fabric was not jeopardized and replacement costs could be avoided. While progress has been made on several fronts in the playhouse, there is still ongoing work on interior restoration and system upgrades, such as HVAC, plumbing and electrical.

Through a separate grant, Kienzle said they were able to replace all west-facing lobby windows, which improved the security of the building. The stage flooring was repaired. They were also able to establish a firewall so as to not compromise the east side of the facility and allow that space to be operational independent of the theater.

Beyond repairing the derecho damage, Kienzle said that as an essential part of the MACC story, they want to preserve the mid-century modern characteristics envisioned by Martha-Ellen Tye and Bill Fisher. Fortunately, she said they have the same contractor which was used for the MACC project, someone who is familiar with the fixtures and the architecture.

“One of the main goals is to make the playhouse more accessible for everyone,” Kienzle said. The plans include improving seating arrangements and installing a lift in the lobby which will provide easier access to the seating area. The lobby will be reconfigured with fully accessible restrooms, ensuring the space is ADA compliant and accessible for all guests.

She said another area in need of upgrades is the entrance. The deteriorating concrete will be replaced along with the addition of a ramp which will provide access to the proper slope to meet code requirements.

“This project is a testament to the resilience and dedication of our community,” Kienzle said. “We welcome everyone to join us on this journey, whether through donations, volunteering or simply spreading the word about the importance of the playhouse.”

Financing, future

Kienzle said the renovation project is expected to cost more than $1.5 million, financed through grants and donations, which they are very grateful to receive. Moving forward with the project coincides with the grant and private fundraising endeavors that will allow the Linn Creek District to be redeveloped.

“We’re grateful for the city of Marshalltown, the Arts and Culture Alliance and the Marshalltown Chamber’s efforts, along with tremendous support from several private donors, to get this to the finish line and allow this to move forward,” Kienzle said.

Once the work is complete, there will be a grand re-opening event. She said it will likely include a ribbon cutting, performances and community activities.

“We want to celebrate the playhouse’s legacy and its return as a community hub,” Kienzle said. “We are at the mercy of a construction timeline, but we anticipate about seven months to completion.”

While the venue will be smaller, the potential is not decreased, according to Kienzle. Reviving the playhouse should pay off as it will not only bring entertainment options to Marshalltown, but also support talent, tourism and education through programs and performances.

“From an economic standpoint, having this venue space operational again will allow Marshalltown to be a contender for those functions,” she said. “The size of our theatre offers an option not currently available to the broader community, that also has the flexibility of utilizing our retail alcohol license to expand on the offerings that a private facility can provide.”

Once it is reopened, the plan is to host a wide range of events, such as concerts, workshops and cultural celebrations. Kienzle has received event suggestions such as blues concerts and tribute bands, Latin music, Ted Talks, dance recitals, theater productions and workshops, comedy shows and more.

“It’s been great to have people dreaming again about what they envision this space could look like and give a reason for making a trip to the MACC,” she said. “Together, this vision is becoming reality.”

Kienzle also hopes to collaborate with schools and arts organizations to create more opportunities for youth in the arts.

“Although every event may not be for you, we hope to offer something for everyone,” she said. “We’ve had many conversations about the facility as a whole, and several workshops that happen on the east side of the building are waiting for the theater to be done so they can engage with larger audiences.”

Kienzle added that while it is exciting to envision all the opportunities which can be brought to Marshalltown, they want to make sure they focus on what is already in the community.

“We have a diverse live music scene, corporate companies and other art forms that could benefit from this indoor space,” she said. “How great it will be to continue to give Marshalltown choices and opportunities to stay local.”

In the end, Kienzle said they are excited to bring the historic anchor back to life and the restoration of the Martha-Ellen Tye Playhouse is more than just repairing a Marshalltown building. It is also about preserving a space where residents can gather, share experiences and celebrate the arts.

“The Martha Ellen Tye Playhouse has always been a cornerstone of our community, a place where stories come alive, creativity flourishes, and connections are made,” she said.

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Contact Lana Bradstream

at 641-753-6611 ext. 210 or

lbradstream@timesrepublican.com.