WILMINGTON — The long-awaited replacing of seats in the 100-year-old Murphy Theatre was underway Tuesday morning with a small army of volunteers dismantling the seats and workers replacing the venue’s rigging, renovating restrooms, and more.
Volunteers from Wilmington-based Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) were hard at work taking up the old seats Tuesday, while Matrka Renovation and Painting began their part of the project.
The seating project is made possible by a public-private partnership: Clinton County commissioners approved a $300,000 no-interest loan to the Murphy Theatre not-for-profit organization. To seal the deal, private donors came forward and said they would personally guarantee the promissory note.
The total project is estimated to cost $370,000, with the performing arts community theater contributing $70,000.
If you grew up attending the Murphy Theatre events or simply want a part of local history in your home, the old seats are being offered for sale, in pairs for $100 ($50/seat). Call the theatre or go online to make your purchase.
Also, the theatre’s rigging is being replaced, partly financed by proceeds from the popular Clinton County Dancing with the Stars event.