Theater on the Green receives $50,000 grant for roof repairs

Cheraw is synonymous with Mr. Dizzy Gillespie and the South Carolina Jazz Festival. The latter celebrates the life and legacy of Cheraw's famous citizen – Dizzy Gillespie. Central to the celebration and the epicenter of Downtown's culture and entertainment is the Theatre on the Green. The nearly 100 year old theatre has a rich history. It chronicles silent, black & white movies, the invention of color and sound films, and its closing to be later repurposed as a performing arts center, lecture hall, and civic meeting venue.

This local and State treasure was one of thousands damaged by Hurricane Florence. Sixty to 70 mph winds and heavy rains tore into its roof leaving paths for meandering rainwater. Water trickled into the roof's structure staining the ornate plaster moldings and tin ceiling in the auditorium and foyer. "Temporary measures were employed as a band aide to minimize further damage. However, potential permanent and exacerbated damage was at stake. The Fox Theatre Institute's (FTI) Urgent/Emergency Grant announcement came at the most opportune time" stated Rodney S. Tucker, Planning & Community Development Director. FTI is an outreach program assisting other cultural institutions to renew, reinvigorate, and restore artistic vitality in Georgia and neighboring states. An essential part of its mission is the restoration and operation of historic theatres. Tucker, who wrote and submitted the grant, said he was ecstatic when FTI announced the $50,000 grant award to re-roof the Theatre on the Green.

Hooks Construction Services is the selected contractor. Work began last week. Hooks is no stranger to the Town. Mr. Darren Hooks stated "It was a pleasure to work with the Town again. The Theatre's iconic stature punctuates Downtown."

Friday, June 14, FTI with the Town will celebrate project completion with a Big Check Ceremony.