SUMTER, S.C. (September 20, 2017) â The historical significance of the Sumter Opera House will open next month during a grand opening celebration. City officials are inviting the community to share their story at the exhibit opening on October 6 anytime from 5 to 7 PM.
âThe Sumter Opera House has survived the Great Depression, hurricanes, fires, and floods,â said Joe McElveen, Mayor of City of Sumter. âThrough live performances, big screen movies, local graduation ceremonies, and other events, the building has continuously connected the community to art and each other. This exhibit is an extraordinary testament to the vision and determination of city officials over a century who pledged to maintain Sumterâs history.â
This project was completed through a collaboration with the Sumter County Museum, which provided many of the exhibit artifacts that will be on display. As well as many individuals in the community who donated artifacts and information that is used in the exhibit.
Seth Reimer, Cultural Director of the Sumter Opera House, said the City was awarded a $100,000 grant through the South Carolina Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department (SCPRT) and their Undiscovered South Carolina Program. This grant funds, according to Reimer, have transformed the City Centre into a historical exhibit allowing patrons of the Opera House to view snapshots while they are awaiting a performance.
âSections of the exhibit will focus on important performers that have graced the stage, its significance within the Sumter community, and a special look at the inside of the clock tower," said Reimer. âThere are even sections of the exhibit directed at children, to allow for all ages to find something of interest within the exhibit.â
Again, visitors and historians alike are invited to attend the open house celebration on Thursday, October 6 from 5-7 PM. The exhibit will be open to patrons daily Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5 PM thereafter. âWeâre excited to share the history of the Sumter Opera House with everyone who walks through the doors,â said Reimer.
The Sumter Opera House has been a recognizable landmark in the Sumter community for over a century, surviving the Great Depression, hurricanes, fires, and floods. This exhibit will highlight the diverse uses of the building since its completion in 1895, important performers that have graced the stage, and its significance within the Sumter community.
For more information about the Sumter Opera House, you may visit www.sumteroperahouse.com, call 803-436-2616 or visit at 21 N. Main Street, Sumter, South Carolina.
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