Preserving a Landmark. Strengthening a Community. Building the Future.

For generations, the Elk Rapids Cinema — now the Chalfonte Theatre — has been more than a movie house.

It is a gathering place.
A storyteller.
A beacon of light on winter nights.
A shared living room for our community.

Today, we are launching a multi-year capital campaign to preserve this historic building while upgrading the infrastructure necessary to support cinema, live performance, Village Radio, and new broadcast media arts programming.

This work is not cosmetic.
It is essential stewardship.

Our goal is to ensure this historic cultural space continues serving Elk Rapids — and audiences around the world — for generations to come.

A Powerful Beginning

We are honored to share that generous donors, who wish to remain anonymous, have pledged support covering the full cost of Phase One — the replacement of the theatre’s heating and cooling system.

This extraordinary act of generosity ensures a safe, comfortable environment for audiences and protects the building for years to come.

Their leadership launches this campaign with hope and momentum as we move forward together.

Phase One (Completed Through Leadership Support)

Heating & Cooling System Replacement — $35,000

• ensures year-round comfort
• protects building and equipment
• improves efficiency and reliability
• prevents costly emergency repairs

Phase Two: Electrical Modernization — $50,000

Improves safety, reliability, and capacity for modern theatre, performance, and broadcast technology.

Phase Three: Roof Replacement — $150,000

Protects the building from water damage, preserves historic interiors and artwork, and ensures long-term structural integrity.

Phase Four: Historic Marquee & Façade Restoration

$27,000 Remaining

With support from the Elk Rapids DDA and the Jimeyer Trust, this restoration will:

• restore the original neon glow
• illuminate the iconic glass block tower
• improve pedestrian safety lighting
• install a programmable digital display
• enhance façade lighting

Help us keep the beacon bright on River Street.

Phase Five: Restrooms, Accessibility & Concessions — $53,000

Enhances accessibility, guest comfort, and historic Art Deco design.

Phase Six: Platform & Broadcast Media Arts — $35,000

Supports concerts, theatre, radio drama, internet broadcasting, and media arts programming.

Phase Seven: Historic Murals & Auditorium Restoration — $25,000

Preserves the theatre’s iconic black-light ceiling mural and powder room mural, replaces aisle carpeting, and installs floor lighting.

Why This Matters

Your support helps:

✔ preserve a historic landmark
✔ strengthen local arts and culture
✔ expand youth and media programs
✔ support live performance and radio
✔ keep a cultural gathering place alive

Help Build the Future

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Share your story and help keep the lights bright.