Fox Theatre Walsenburg needs public input on final

WALSENBURG — There are also two proposed garden theatre concepts for screening of family friendly movies outdoors in the warmer months. courtesy Mike Peters, Executive director, Fox Theatre, Walsenburg WALSENBURG — The final design plans have arrived from the team at the CU Denver School of Architecture & Planning. While it is true, as the video narator points out, that movie going seems a long way off these days, with a little work now the down time due to COVID can be used to refine concepts, secure funding and move toward getting the theatre back in shape for the future. When reviewing the presentation, videos, and images, focus on these questions: • What programs would you like to see?

How should we use the theatre? • What kind of space helps facilitate those program ideas? • What is your big dream for this community resource? The flooring, paint colors, materials, and other finishes are temporary examples.

No decisions have been made on how the theatre should look (retro, modern, chic, etc). These are the FINAL designs and we’re seeking your input by casting your vote on which design you like best. Go to: https://foxtheatrewalsenburg. org/cu-denver-design-plans-2 Watch the introductory video to hear how the project has been developed so far and learn the history of the building’s reimagining, as well as an excellent history of the theatre itself.

Then go on to examine the three plans in detail and macast your vote! There are three plans to vote on. The first has minimum changes to the footprint, but with modern ADA restrooms and other amenities for the comfort of guests. The second also utilizes the current footprint of the building, but has more amenities and allows greater flexibility for the building, including a secondary theatre.

The third plan expands into the vacant lot south of the current building and includes a major theatre renovation and an addition that will serve as a theatre complex/conference and events center to serve the needs of the community. This concept also includes an outdoor theatre for screening family friendly favorites during the summer months. All of these designs are geared toward finding more ways for the theatre be flexible and to make enough money to be self supporting through movies and live performances. The desire is to also enhance the visitor experience with food and perhaps a cafe, a second, smaller cinema space, and a backstage green room for the use of performers during live acts.

Always the goal is that the theatre become a hub of activity for the community. It would also become a venue for trade shows, exhibitions, arts shows, public meetings, and youth film production, all with catering kitchen capabilities. There is also the possibility of expansion onto the vacant land south of the theatre. This area could be used for garden theatre in the summer months prior to any new construction.

Finally, watch for a digital community meeting to be held to discuss all these plans. It will be posted on the marquee. There are also two proposed garden theatre concepts for screening of family friendly movies outdoors in the warmer months. Concept A includes space for a small performing area or art show display off the lobby.

All concepts also include a second smaller cinema space upstairs. All illustrations courtesy Fox Theatre and CU Denver. Concept A also includes a more efficient concessions space and ticket taking area. Concept B would include a cafe and larger performance area in the lobby.

All concepts include balcony catwalk seating in addition to mezzanine stadium seating on the second floor.