The theatre’s heating system has kept the building warm through the winter months for decades. While the current boiler is not original to the 104-year-old building, it was likely installed sometime in the 1980s, making it nearly 50 years old.
Last winter, the boiler began leaking water between heating cycles, making repairs necessary before it could be turned on again this year. Over the summer, several contractors evaluated the boiler and provided estimates for the repairs. Work has been scheduled, and some repairs are already underway. However, the theatre knew additional costs could arise if any of the boiler sections were found to be cracked or rusted through.
After the boiler was opened and disassembled, contractors discovered that one section had a large, rusted hole that could not be patched and would need to be replaced entirely. The replacement section will cost an additional $8,000, bringing the total repair cost to approximately $28,000. The original estimate for repairing the leak was roughly $20,000, with most of that cost attributed to labor.
With the full repair cost now known, the theatre is asking the community to help fund the project. Unlike some of its other fundraisers, the boiler campaign does not offer special gifts or prizes in exchange for donations. Instead, contributions will help preserve a warm, welcoming place where community members can enjoy entertainment with friends and family.
The theatre has offered several examples of how community support could help reach the fundraising goal. In September alone, more than 1,000 patrons attended shows at the theatre. If each of those patrons donated $28, the campaign would surpass its goal. That amount is less than the theatre’s average ticket price for the month.
Similarly, a donation of $280, less than the cost of a full box at the theatre, would cover 1% of the total repair cost. With 100 donors contributing $280 each, the project would be fully funded.
Community members are encouraged to donate to help ensure the theatre can continue welcoming audiences throughout the colder months.
To learn more about the boiler repairs, the fundraising campaign, or the theatre, visit the fundraising page at https://givebutter.com/Dixon-Boiler-fundraiser.
Those with questions or an interest in making a matching donation can contact Executive Director Spencer Aurand at spencer.aurand@dixontheatre.com or 815-501-8113.
The Dixon Historic Theatre thanks the community for its support and looks forward to welcoming audiences back to the theatre.
