YESTERDAY

Ten years ago, after a century of offering entertainment to the local community, the Iowa Theater nearly went dark forever. That was until community booster Marianne Fons stepped forward to energize the drive to restore the theater to its former glory. With a team of local contractors, The Iowa underwent a $1.2 million renovation. The restoration redesigned the lobby and concession areas, revealed the grand proscenium and stage, and reopened the long-closed balcony, transforming the theater into an Art Deco jewel. At the conclusion of the renovation, a non-profit was created to oversee the theater’s operation. The Iowa reopened in 2017 during the John Wayne birthday celebration, the first of many collaborations with area organizations.

TODAY

The Iowa shows over one hundred different films each year, including Way Back Wednesday classics, popular Hollywood releases on weekends, and art films during the Sunday Movie Club. The Iowa often partners with local organizations to host free movies for kids and screens John Wayne classics.

The Iowa is home to The Winterset Stage, where local actors of all ages experience the thrill of performing and learn more about live theater. The WHS Vocal Music Department and Winterset Ballet and Dance Studio each perform annually at The Iowa. The theater also serves as an affordable rental option for birthday parties, graduations, family gatherings, plus workshops and business meetings.

The Iowa Theater is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. It is not owned by any individual and is guided by a volunteer board of directors. All revenue is reinvested into operations. Despite being a non-profit, The Iowa’s economic impact on the local economy is significant, employing eight individuals whose part-time salaries generate over $167,000 annually. Locally purchased concessions contribute another $5,000 annually to our local economy.

TOMORROW

This campaign will eliminate the remaining debt from the renovation and establish a reserve for projector upgrades and maintenance. The theater is thriving, yet the debt is a burden on the monthly balance sheet and holds the theater back in programming and maintenance. Our campaign goal is $300,000.

Once debt-free, The Iowa will be able to expand community programming to include more free movies, music events, and performances by traveling artists. Your contribution to the capital campaign—no matter how large or small—will ensure this community gem continues to dazzle.

Iowa Theater Board of Directors
Laura Bertelson, Dan Bush, Rebecca Fons,
Marianne Fons (emeritus), Luann Gilman,
Stephanie Gerleman, Jim Mease, Judy Reel