IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. (WZMQ) – The Braumart Theater played host to the Dickinson Chamber of Commerce after hours event, where Rodney Kjell, President of the Friends of the Braumart Theatre, unveiled ambitious plans for the historic venue’s centennial celebration in 2025.
Kjell shared, “In 2025 we will celebrate our hundredth anniversary, and we’re going to kick off our fundraising for renovation.” He emphasized the desire to maintain the theater’s historic integrity while incorporating modern upgrades. The historic theatre aims to get on the National Register of Historic places, now that it is soon to turn 100. “Our renovations will include adding on about 30 to 40 feet to the back of the theater, where we can then put on a good stage so the bands and theater groups, and dance groups can actually have a full stage and dressing rooms.”
Among the proposed upgrades are new lighting, an improved stage, and a new movie screen. Kjell expressed the need for technological advancements, stating, “Our current system is adequate, but adequate is not necessarily good.” He added, “We want to get some things so that when you come in, you’re actually getting a better sound than your own home theater sound.”
The theater also revealed a wishlist for those interested in contributing to the renovation efforts. “We have what we call the wish list,” Kjell explained, highlighting items such as a new movie screen and a sound system. “Those are rather expensive. We also have things on there that aren’t expensive. We always need more labels for our marquee.”
The Braumart aims to engage diverse audiences, with Kjell noting recent events like Pink Floyd trivia night and an upcoming Heat Box performance, which features a Beatbox performance blended with comedy. “We as the Braumart want to bring in people that are good, they may not be your average Upper Michigan group,” he emphasized.
Volunteer opportunities are available for those looking to support the theater, with roles ranging from concessions to movie screen operation. “The number of volunteers we need for a typical movie is about 3 to 4 volunteers,” Kjell explained, encouraging community involvement.
As the Braumart gears up for its centennial milestone, Kjell invited the public to tour the venue. “We’ll be glad to give you a tour,” he said, advising visitors to wear comfortable shoes and possibly a hardhat due to low ceilings in some areas.
With plans underway and community support growing, the Braumart Theatre prepares to embark on its next chapter, blending history with modernity to ensure its legacy for generations to come.
The Braumart has just a few items left on its wishlist:
-Movie screen $15,000 for screen and installation
Granite bathroom counter, two sinks and cabinet for women’s washroom $1500-$3500
-Dual Lavalier Mike wireless system $700
-Aprons with Braumart logo for concession volunteers $25 each, need x10.
-Name tags for volunteers $12 for one, need x25
-Additional letters for marquee, 40 letters at eight dollars each. $380 with shipping.
The Braumart is offering sponsorship opportunities for its movie events. The program includes platinum, gold, silver, and bronze levels with varying benefits and costs. Platinum sponsorship is $5000, gold is $3000, silver is $1000, and bronze is $500. Additionally, sponsors can opt for $500 per movie sponsorship for the classic movie series or sponsor the free community movie for kids in December for $1000, which includes the Braumart providing costume characters, free popcorn, and candy canes for children. The movie typically shown is ‘Polar Express’ but movie sponsors can pick any movie. Interested sponsors can make checks payable to FOTB and send them to The Braumart P.O. Box 156, Iron Mountain.
To find out more about the Braumart’s sponsorships, shows, or to volunteer, visit:
