MALEK Theatre

Auditorium Phase

20% Complete  |  $135,000+ Estimated Completion Cost

The 8,500-square-foot auditorium is the biggest phase by far. The dividing wall being removed is the only part this is complete so far. Next in line will be removing all the fallen debris from the deteriorating ceiling. Volunteers and equipment have already been lined up for when the time comes. Once that is removed and cleaned, the ceiling will need to be replaced. The current bid for the replacement of the ceiling is $35,000. This includes an acoustic tile application installed by an experienced professional in the theatre industry.

The Malek Theatre experience will begin with the showing of movies. For this, new seating and a motorized screen will be installed that will allow The Malek to be open for the screening of movies while stage work is being completed behind the scenes. Transitioning into the ability to have live performances as well is the ultimate goal. The 55'x30' motorized screen has been estimated at $45,000, including installation. The purchase and installation of seating come in at $55,000.

Research on the specific applications for projection and sound equipment is currently underway. Once these features have been engineered into place, bids for pricing will follow.

The crying and party rooms on either side of the projection booth have not been forgotten. However, they will be the last thing that comes into play.

To be continued ...

** Photo credit to Nathanial Brown of Forgotten IA. To view the entire album, please visit the Forgotten IA Facebook page.