Considered the Jewel of Main Street in Viroqua, the Temple Theatre hosts theatrical productions as well as musical acts. Top right: Temple Theatre executive director Jess Reed with Molly Reese, who handles programming.
The season includes both theatrical and musical acts, including Harmonious Wail, a group out of Madison, coming to Viroqua for the first time. “We are really excited for that,” says Reese. She’s also excited about the theatrical performance of Population 485, based on the book by Michael Perry, a best-selling Wisconsin author. Perry wrote the play and is part of the cast. “We put out a survey to the community, because we really wanted to hear what the community was looking for, and theatrical performance was number one,” says Reese. Another play this season, Guys on Ice, sold out last year during a snowstorm and is expected to do the same this year. Other acts include the bluegrass band The Special Consensus, and Nordic Voices, an a cappella group from Oslo, Norway. Reese is in charge of booking the acts, but she doesn’t do it alone. “Jess Reed is the executive director. He is also my fiancé,” says Reese. “It is a team effort.” With so many must-sees on deck, Reese expects many shows to sell out. Lots of the 522 seats have already been snatched up by season ticket holders. “We offer two season ticket packages. One is a pick six, so people can pick whatever six shows they want and get a 15 percent discount.
Or they can purchase a full 10 package and get a 25 percent discount.”
Feel the excitement
With enthusiasm around the Temple Theatre resembling that of its early days, it’s likely to continue drawing crowds and big-name performers. The volunteers and board of directors, many involved in bringing the theater back to life, strive to keep that momentum going. “It is a good feeling to be part of an organization where there is such support and such backing,” notes Reese. “We really work cohesively together. It is an exciting organization to be a part of.” Reese suggests checking the theater’s website and Facebook page for upcoming shows and performances. She also invites people to come to a show and enjoy downtown Viroqua. “The theater is a gathering place. I like to think of it as a beacon and an economic stimulator for the community. People come to see a show and eat at the Driftless Café or Dave’s Pizza. I love Viroqua. I grew up here. It is moving in some really exciting directions, and it’s fun to be a part of that.” crw Westby-based freelance writer Leah Call has fond memories of seeing movies in the Temple Theatre as a young child.
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