Local News

Mission Theatre in Menard Undergoing Long-Awaited Restoration

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Tony Maples Photography

 

The Mission Theatre in Menard is undergoing a transformation. The foundation established for its restoration is working to bring new life to the building, in order for it to once again host movies, plays, and live music events. They’ve since been working with sponsors, local corporate donors, and individuals to generate the budget required for their initiative.

In late May 2019, the Mission Theatre Restoration Foundation posted to their Facebook page that a new roof was being placed on the facility, which was originally constructed in 1927. The roof was being completed by a local contractor and signaled the beginning of the building’s full restoration. The project was launched in 2010 by a small group of Menard residents who wished to see the theatre revitalized and reopened. The local group tried to form a 501C3, but after that did not work out, it’s now owned by the Menard Industrial  Development Corporation. A new Board has been formed with an established 501C3, and the new Board President Cherry Branaman heads up the current project. Since then, they’ve had a series of fundraising initiatives, put in a lot of elbow grease, and found a grant writer and campaign manager who helped kicked the project into high gear.

Mission Theatre in Menard Undergoing Long-Awaited Restoration

Photo: Facebook/Mission Theatre Restoration Foundation

As with many historic structures, bringing new life to the Mission Theatre will require a costly and extensive overhaul. The restoration of such facilities to their former glory can come with a hefty price tag. However, the foundation is determined, and the town could use the facility as a gathering place and performance venue. It’s a Texas Hill Country property that holds great potential. The theatre closed in 1953 and has remained dormant since. In 1980, it suffered a flood, and around 1990, the roof caved in. Eventually, trees began to grow up through the floor. Nature was beginning to take over.

Mission Theatre in Menard Undergoing Long-Awaited Restoration

Photo: Facebook/Mission Theatre Restoration Foundation

Since its formation, the Mission Theatre Restoration Foundation has worked diligently to pursue their passion—restoring and reopening this timeless Texas entity to help “create business, create revenue, create some interest and hopefully put Menard a little bit more on the map.” Those interested in learning more and supporting the foundation’s mission (no pun intended) can visit the group’s Facebook page at the link available here or call 325-396-2365.