Our Renovation Project
I
magine a small Maine community whose economic growth and cultural identity is informed and inspired by the performing arts; where greater access to world-class performers has led to a surge of economic development and well-being; where children participate with artists, musicians, and actors on stage, and learn from them in their own classrooms; and where these experiences are accessible and affordable for all.
If you live near Gardiner, Maine and have experienced the Johnson Hall Performing Arts Center, you likely know first-hand of this cultural and economic phenomenon. And the best news is that Johnson Hall is just beginning to fulfill its potential as a stimulating and vibrant regional asset.
To follow along with our progress, click here to visit our Renovations News blog
The Project
After years of building a performing arts organization with a growing audience base, excellent educational programs, strong community partnerships, and a reputation for artistic quality and fiscal responsibility, Johnson Hall has outgrown its current space and is ready to expand and complete renovations to its three-story, two-theater performing arts facility.
With the rising cost of supplies and labor, due to the challenging years we have been through, rehabilitating the top two floors of Johnson Hall will cost $8 million. Of this, $3 million (37%) will come from federal and state historic tax credits. The remaining $5 million (63%) will be funded with private support.
The completed facility will include:
- A 400-seat theater on the 3rd floor, with an upper balcony, raked seating to improve sight lines, and state-of-the-art sound, lighting, and projection equipment;
- A gracious lobby and concessions area, restrooms, and a green room/dressing room for performers on the 2nd floor;
- An expanded foyer and full-service box office on the ground floor; and
- ADA-compliant access to all areas of the facility, including an elevator.
When renovations are complete, Johnson Hall will house two fully functional theaters, ensuring much greater flexibility for programming.
Community Partnership
Johnson Hall has developed strong community partnerships by collaborating with civic and arts organizations that also have been instrumental in creating economic development opportunities and enhancing community and cultural programming. Key partners include Gardiner Main Street, the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Kennebec Valley Art Association (Harlow Gallery), the Boys and Girls Club of Kennebec Valley, the Gardiner Public Library, downtown merchants, area school districts, and the City of Gardiner.
The fully renovated venue will have the capacity to host community events such as dance recitals, regional high school musicals, and graduations. The Opera House also will provide opportunities for local government and community nonprofit gatherings that require a large and welcoming space, state-of-the-art audio/visual equipment, and a comfortable environment.
Johnson Hall intends to be an engine of economic opportunity for the Kennebec Valley community. Building on 150 years of entertainment in the old Opera House, we are committed to this goal and welcome any and all support from across the state and throughout the Northeast. We invite you to join us!
Raising Funds
Our staff, Campaign Counsel, Campaign Committee, and Regional Advisory Council are working together to raise the funds needed to complete this historic project.
How can you pledge your support? Simply Donate Now online or call Mike Miclon at 207-582-7144 to discuss your possible participation. All payments on pledges may be paid over a period of five years, making it easier to make your best gift possible.
Construction has begun inside Johnson Hall and will be completed by the end of 2023.
Our Professional Team
In addition to the many community volunteers, board members, staff, and generous donors, Johnson Hall is working with a corps of professionals to fulfill the vision for the future, including:
