DANVILLE, Ill. (WAND) - The Fischer Theatre is a staple of Downtown Danville and is soon about to experience a major makeover.
"It's going to be amazing for us because now we'll be able to have the caliber of acts this theatre deserves," said Danville Mayor Rickey Williams Jr.
Since the late 1800s, the theatre has been a place fostering culture and art, but preserving the historic landmark has brought some challenges.
The theatre recently received a $280,000 grant award, which will help restore the building. The renovations will include "five dressing rooms, two green rooms—each with kitchenettes and televisions and two bathrooms with showers," said Interim Executive Director Ashton Greer.
The grant is not the only addition; the theatre is also launching a national movie premiere about legendary actor Dick Van Dyke.
Van Dyke is a Danville native, starring in movies like "Mary Poppins" and the comedy "The Dick Van Dyke Show." The film, "Dick Van Dyke: 100th Celebration," is a feature film from Emmy-winning filmmakers Steve Boettcher and Michael Trinklein. Community members will get the opportunity to watch the film inside the Fischer Theatre before the movie hits theaters.
"For our community, Dick Van Dyke is hope that I could be the person that comes from a small town and actually achieves greatness," said Ruey Sandusky, president of the theatre board.
Tickets are available on the theatre's website, as well as information on the upcoming Fischer Fest in December.
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