Future Of The Lerner Theater

The future of the Lerner Theater Project will begin in early 2011, when construction will be completed. What Elkhart will have is a grand old theater returned to the opulent splendor of its "Roaring '20s" downtown debut in Elkhart. And it will be able to make another roaring debut as a dynamic new theater, with seating for 1,700 and such features as a 50-foot wide video screen with state-of-the-art equipment to view sporting events and films, hold corporate meetings and conduct interactive videocasts with anyone in the world. Quite a mix of early 20th Century and early 21st Century functions!

However, live performances will still be the hallmark of the Lerner Theater stage. An extended stage area will increase the flexibility to host major touring troupes of actors and musicians. Look for well-known comedians or speakers, too. And, of course, many local performers will have a fitting stage upon which to truly strut their stuff.

An attractive and active performance venue means that Elkhart residents and others from across the region will have plenty of reasons to visit downtown and take in other nearby spots such as the Midwest Museum of American Art, the National New York Railroad Museum and the River Walk, as well as visiting local restaurants and nightspots. Such an arts and entertainment district combined with other area attractions such as the RV Hall of Fame hold promise for an even greater influx of tourist dollars for the local economy.

The additional 6,000 square feet of meeting space, complete with catering, means such things as corporate business events, wedding receptions, proms, banquets and other activities will have the space and attractive quarters to meet local demand.

So keep an eye on what's going up on the corner of Franklin and Main. It's exciting to see!