A Grand Transformed.
Philosophically, the Second Century Campaign is a comprehensive $17 million initiative to undertake a transformative revitalization of The Grand Theater. This audience-centric and cost-efficient project seeks to holistically address critical infrastructure updates, enhance accessibility for all patrons, and modernize our facilities to meet the evolving demands of both audiences and world-class artists.
The anticipated impact of this project on The Grand and the community we serve is profound:
Enhanced Patron Experience. The project will significantly improve accessibility, audience comfort, and overall enjoyment, leading to increased patron satisfaction and loyalty. This directly impacts attendance rates and diversified audience engagement, important metrics for every community.
Expanded Community Engagement. The transformed Great Hall will become a more versatile and acoustically capable space, enabling a wider range of community events, intimate performances, and educational programming, thereby deepening our connection to the community.
Economic Catalyst. Sustaining The Grand's operations through these renovations will allow us to continue generating significant economic impact for the Wausau region, contributing to local business vitality and serving as a key recruitment tool for regional businesses.
Organizational Resilience. By replacing end-of-life systems (like the roof and HVAC) and upgrading core infrastructure, we're ensuring The Grand's operational longevity and long-term financial sustainability, mitigating future costly emergency repairs.
Project Timeline:
All construction will be completed during an “extended summer” of 2026. We plan regular behind the scenes updates to the public during the project!
Closing May 10, 2026 and reopening November 2026.
Make a donation today!
Gifts can be sent to:
Performing Arts Foundation
401 N Fourth St, Wausau WI 54401
Memo: Second Century Campaign
Contact us for questions or more info.
Critical Infrastructure:
It’s not sexy but we gotta do it! This project is the culmination of extensive planning, feasibility studies, and community input, recognizing that while The Grand is a beloved institution, its physical infrastructure requires significant investment to remain viable, competitive, and truly accessible. We have been maintaining and improving the facility piecemeal over the last ten years, investing millions into the venue; this project is an essential strategic investment in long-term sustainability, artistic relevance, and community impact. We plan to upgrade and replace the roof and HVAC systems, among others.
Project Partners:
We are proud to partner with industry and regional experts to ensure the highest quality and efficiency for the project:
The DLR Group: The architect for the project, DLR Group is regarded as one of the preeminent companies working in the historic theater space and is best known for their transformational work with the Playhouse Square in Cleveland. DLR Group is a fully-integrated design group, overseeing not only architectural design and historical preservation, but also fully theatrical and interior design services. DLR was the architect of the ArtsBlock project that originally created the Great Hall in 2002.
Miron Construction: For over 100 years, Miron Construction has overseen some of the largest and most impactful projects throughout the Midwest and will serve as the general contractor for the project. They were the contractor for the ArtsBlock project at The Grand in 2002. Miron is best known for their longstanding relationship with the Green Bay Packers and their work at Lambeau Field. In their role, Miron will be responsible for construction oversight, budgeting, scheduling, contractor coordination, and ensuring adherence to safety standards.
Kotabuki Seating: While the project will feature dozens of contractors and sub-contractors, one of the most important components of the project is the replacement of the seating in the theater, with new seats that enhance patron experience while staying true to historical appearance. Kotabuki Seating International has worked with historic theaters throughout the country to create custom-built seats that celebrate the history of the venue while ensuring patron comfort and meeting accessibility standards.
Grand Theater Foundation: The Grand Theater Foundation has been involved in the preservation of The Grand dating back to the late 1970’s. Comprised of local business leaders, the Foundation provides counsel and support for the project.
Incredible Bank: A family-owned local bank that has now grown to locations in multiple states, Incredible Bank is a great partner of The Grand and will provide bridge financing for the project.
It’s time. It’s an investment. It will take all of us.
Thank you for considering a donation to The Grand Theater’s Second Century Campaign, and for being a vital part of our 100th Anniversary.
Need Help? Contact:
Tessa Taylor, Director of Development
715.842.0988 ext. 231
ttaylor@grandtheater.org
