MALEK Theatre
Renovation
Renovations initially began in 2004 but were halted due to the Starlight Cinema coming to Independence. In February 2020, the Malek Theatre Foundation 501(c)(3) was formed and renovations began to pick back up! Follow the progress of the 4 phases below and be sure to join the "Bring Back the Malek" movement by donating to the Malek Theatre Foundation, 501(c)(3). Donations can be made via PayPal below or directly thru BankIowa, 230 1st St E, Independence, IA 50644, Attn: Dan Flaucher.
MALEK Theatre
Marquee Phase
This phase is nearly complete and included restoring the entire marquee sign out front. A devastating storm destroyed most of the marquee and with the help of Signs & More, Kout Construction and a couple of volunteers, 20 years later the marquee now shines brighter than ever, complete with red Wagner-style letters! Volunteers also painted the entire marquee back to its original red and white colors. All that is left is the finishing touch of neon-style lighting.
% Complete | 90%
Estimated Cost to Complete | $20,000
MALEK Theatre
Lobby Phase
This phase is 100% complete! With the help of New Model, LLC, the water-damaged areas were removed and repaired. The walls and ceiling were restored back to their original colors and the display windows along with the original ceiling light fixture were restored. An exact replica of the original hand-painted border by Merle Reed was created and installed by Signs & More along with Casey Stoner. All doors, hinges, handles, and closers, along with the floor are still original and have been meticulously cleaned.
% Complete | 100% ✓
Estimated Cost to Complete | $0.00 ✓
MALEK Theatre
Foyer/Lounge Phase
New Model, LLC completed all plaster repairs and volunteered to help restore the area to its original painted color scheme. Several other volunteers helped with restoring the lighting. With the help of pilot Brian Youngblut, Tony Fitz, and Signs & More, a replica of the original aerial photo was captured and installed. Missing artwork around the foyer entrance still needs to be recreated and carpeting needs to be installed throughout.
% Complete | 95%
Estimated Cost to Complete | $17,525
$1,000 | Artwork
$16,525 | Carpet
MALEK Theatre
Auditorium Phase
This is the largest phase by far. The only part that has been completed is the removal of the wall that separated the theatre into two. Still to come includes the removal of fallen debris, ceiling replacement, as well as the purchase and installation of new seating. A motorized screen along with new projection and sound equipment will allow the theatre to accommodate films as well as live performances. The restoration of the crying and party rooms is also on the minds of the renovators.
% Complete | 20%
Estimated Cost to Complete | $135,000 +
$35,000 | Ceiling
$55,000 | Seating
$45,000 | Motorized Screen
TBD | Sound Equipment & Projector