Set the Stage at Wareham Hall

SET THE STAGE

A brave campaign for community connection, inspiration, and growth through the arts

Since 1880, a structure has stood at 410 Poyntz Avenue, designed to improve the quality of life for Manhattan, Kansas, residents through arts and entertainment.

Image courtesy of Riley County Historical Society & Museum

A HISTORIC OPPORTUNITY

A $35 million campaign will transform a lifeless building into a thriving arts and cultural center for generations to come.

A COMMUNITY ASSET. A CULTURAL ICON.

1880

THE COLISEUM

Built at 410 Poyntz, “The Coliseum” opened its doors as the premier entertainment hub in town. The Coliseum quickly became the go-to destination for vaudeville performances, exhibitions, and community gatherings.

1884

MOORE’S OPERA HOUSE

H. S. Moore transformed The Coliseum into Moore’s Opera House. The new stone structure not only enhanced the city's aesthetic appeal but also provided comfort and convenience to its patrons. With a spacious stage, a seating capacity of up to 1,000, and updated scenery, Moore’s Opera House marked a significant step forward for the local arts scene.

1893 WAREHAM’S OPERA HOUSE

Mrs. S. S. Wareham, Harry Wareham’s mother, acquired Moore’s Opera House. Under the new management of her son, the venue underwent significant improvements that ensured a first-class experience for theatergoers. Harry Wareham was determined to make Wareham's Opera House one of the finest in the state.

1918 NEWS DURING THE GREAT WAR

During World War I, the Wareham Theater became a vital news source for locals, showcasing films from leading filmmaker Pathé. The Manhattan Republic reported a poignant moment where local man Harry E. Best saw his son, Sergt. Harry Best, marching in France through a Pathé news film. The theater played a crucial role in connecting the community to the warfront and keeping them informed.

1900

FIRST MOTION PICTURE AT WAREHAM’S OPERA HOUSE

Wareham’s Opera House marked a milestone by screening one of the first motion pictures in the state. The “Cinematoscope,” an extraordinary achievement in photographic science that offered life-like moving pictures and illustrated songs, was showcased at the Opera House. As the venue continued to innovate, it solidified its position as a premier venue for cuttingedge entertainment.

Historic images courtesy of Riley County Historical Society & Museum

1922

WILDCATS ON THE BIG SCREEN

H. K. Wareham emerged as a pioneer in sports media for the Kansas State Agricultural College. Wareham arranged for the first filming of a Wildcat football game. Fans who could not attend the game had the opportunity to watch the film at the Wareham Theater. This milestone marked the beginning of sports media coverage for the college.

1938

THE NEON SIGN

It was 1938 when the Wareham Theater underwent its most iconic renovation. The revamped theater opened on September 15, 1938, with a beautiful terrazzo sidewalk, a new marquee, and a massive neon sign. Inside, the renovated theater featured an updated lobby, a general lounge for patrons, and spacious restrooms. The reopening was celebrated with great fanfare.

1951

THE FLOOD

Like the rest of the city, Kansas’ most devastating flood greatly damaged the Wareham Theater as the main auditorium was under five feet of water. Post-flood renovations and enhancements were swift and the theater’s grand reopening in September 1951 highlighted the community's dedication to restoring the beloved cultural hub with enhanced amenities.

1988-2022

THE REIMAGINATION BEGINS

In 1988, a partnership between the Wareham heirs, McCullough Development Inc., and Brent Bowman emerged, and the Wareham Theater was revitalized as a versatile space for private gatherings and theatrical presentations. Renovations included three terraced seating areas, a dance floor, and a bar. In 2005, Darrell Hills purchased the building, maintaining it as an event venue hosting numerous events, concerts, and performances, even amidst failing infrastructure.

1986

THE THEATER CLOSES

COMMUNITY OUR NEED

WE ENGAGED OVER 1,000 PEOPLE through

interviews, focus groups, & surveys

We found several pressing issues affecting the Manhattan community that a renovated Wareham Opera House could solve:

ENERGY & VIBRANCY

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

ACCESS TO THE ARTS

ATTRACTION & RETENTION

HISTORIC REVITALIZATION

CREATE A DESTINATION THAT GENERATES ENERGY & VIBRANCY

THIS IS A WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY TO UTILIZE THIS MAGNIFICENT SPACE

while also providing opportunities for events that can enhance the community and attract visitors to support our local economy.

SURVEY RESPONDENT

The fastest growing and most attractive cities have vibrant entertainment districts that are anchored by performance venues.

Wareham Hall can serve as downtown Manhattan’s premiere entertainment destination and bolster the viability of businesses located near the venue, from restaurants and bars serving patrons before and after shows, to other local retailers benefiting from the foot traffic drawn to the iconic historic building throughout the day.

$58

$200

$4,600,000

42,000

45+

FOR STUDENTS EXPAND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

The Kansas State University School of Music, Theatre, and Dance has been facing a longstanding issue a lack of suitable performance facilities to expand and improve upon their programs.

Although the School is one of the largest programs in the Big XII, it has considerably fewer venues compared to others. The limited availability of venues on campus poses a challenge for professors and students to expand their curatorial practices as part of their pedagogy.

This problem affects the quality of education provided to students and the livelihood of faculty members.

OUR SCHOOL HAS THE POTENTIAL TO GROW GREATLY,

and we want to grow. But our canvas—the acoustic space— is what we lack. The Wareham Hall project represents an opportunity to host diverse, popular events in the heart of a thriving district, impacting the lives and livelihoods of thousands. By addressing the pressing need for performance venues, this project is more than a building renovation; it's a chance to elevate the quality of life for our community and redefine Manhattan as a cultural destination.

DR. BRYAN PINKALL DIRECTOR

Kansas State University School of Music, Theater, & Dance

ATTRACT & RETAIN RESIDENTS, STUDENTS, AND WORKFORCE MORE LIKELY

Manhattan's long-term success depends on its ability to draw new people to the city. A thriving community needs to offer more than just job opportunities and a good education. It also needs to provide a high quality of life, which includes access to cultural experiences and entertainment.

By providing access to highquality cultural experiences, Wareham Hall will attract a talented and diverse group of students and permanent residents. It will also contribute to the economic development and vitality of the region, making Manhattan a more desirable place to live, work, and visit.

With Wareham Hall at its heart, Manhattan will be a community that celebrates the arts and culture, and values the importance of a high quality of life for its residents.

People who attended arts and cultural events while traveling to a new city were:

Communities with strong arts and cultural offerings are more likely to:

ATTRACT & RETAIN YOUNG PEOPLE

Strong arts and cultural offerings foster vibrant communities and appeal to young people by enriching their lives, fostering creativity, and enhancing social connections.

79% to recommend that city as a good place to live1 HIGHER POPULATION GROWTH

Regions with a strong creative sector are more likely to have:

THERE HAS NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO REVAMP THE WAREHAM OPERA HOUSE.

If a re-imagined Wareham Hall began programming quality shows on a regular basis, nearby shops, restaurants, and hotels would benefit. There are plenty of quintessential college towns in the United States where a downtown with a vibrant theater lives in harmony with the campus performing arts space. With communication and teamwork of all arts leaders in Manhattan, such an arrangement could work here and provide tremendous community impact.

TODD HOLMBERG DIRECTOR McCain Auditorium

ACTIVITIES ENGAGING

OFFER FOR MANHATTAN’S ADULTS & YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

Young professionals and adults often feel excluded from local programming, which caters mostly to bar-goers and university students. They view the revitalized Wareham Hall as a hub offering diverse programming tailored to their interests. By participating in Wareham Hall events, they can strengthen community connections, foster personal growth, and build a thriving social network, making it a pivotal space for uniting and empowering these individuals.

STUNNING, VERSATILE, & FUNCTIONAL

WHY MUST I TRAVEL 60-150 MILES TO ENJOY THIS?

Live music, particularly by artists familiar to me, makes me happier than nearly anything else. Why must I travel 60150 miles to enjoy this? Plus, depending on location, add hundreds of dollars for lodging, gas, and meals?

The Wareham can be just as stunning, versatile, and functional as the Midland, Uptown, and Orpheum theaters, all of which we have visited recently. We purchase McCain tickets too, but those events are not year-round. Renovation of the Wareham will not only serve Manhattan residents, but will become a draw for those outside our fair city.

SURVEY RESPONDENT

Manhattan is lacking a certain kind of culture and energy, and more specifically, the downtown area. K-State has McCain, but I feel like the Wareham has the potential to appeal to a younger demographic and help foster a stronger reason to stay in Manhattan if done right.

SURVEY RESPONDENT

INCREASE ACCESS & EXPOSURE TO THE ARTS

In our conversations with community members, we noticed a significant gap in the current live music and entertainment offerings.

Many people expressed their desire to attend more marquee shows, comedy acts, film screenings, theater productions, and other unique activities. Local performers are eager for additional spaces where they can create new and innovative work, while the community looks forward to celebrating and supporting their friends on stage.

THIS WOULD BE A REGIONAL DRAW

and create additional spin-off benefits—a cultural shift for Manhattan.

SURVEY RESPONDENT

MORE SPACES FOR THE ARTS AND PERFORMANCE ARE ESSENTIAL;

they grant us access to the creative soul of our community.

SURVEY RESPONDENT

THIS COULD BE THE SPOT IN MANHATTAN.

MANHATTAN NEEDS MORE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT.

People leave this town because there’s ‘nothing to do.’ We need to create opportunities to get out of the house on weekends when there’s not home football games.

SURVEY RESPONDENT

There is so much untapped potential for Manhattan to enhance its arts and music scene and offer a greater diversity of options to accommodate our growing community. Performers need an inspiring canvas, and musicians deserve a stage. The scene calls for a home. Wareham Hall could undoubtedly become that home; and I can’t wait for the day to perform on that historic stage.

WAYNE EVERETT GOINS

DISTINGUISHED PROFESSOR OF MUSIC, DIRECTOR OF JAZZ STUDIES

Kansas State University

PR E SERVE THE WAREHAM

CONSIDERED ICONIC, HISTORIC, & IMPORTANT TO THE COMMUNITY

The Wareham is a source of pride, full of long-standing memories from local weddings and high school reunions to the first run of Star Wars on screen. Restoring it helps to preserve these memories and generate new ones.

I CAN’T IMAGINE A TRULY REVITALIZED DOWNTOWN WITHOUT THE RESTORATION AND CREATION OF WAREHAM HALL.

The Wareham is one of the most iconic symbols of Manhattan. It's the focal point of downtown and our community as a whole, and it's a shame how underutilized the entire building is. What was once a special place people couldn't wait to go inside, is now merely a backdrop for people to pass by on their way to dinner. This project is well overdue because the Wareham should be more than a symbol, it should be the source of joy, inspiration, and wonder for people of all ages with varying interests. That's why Manhattan needs a state-of-the-art live performance and entertainment venue like this.

SURVEY RESPONDENT

COMMITMENT OUR

MISSION

We set the stage for community connection, inspiration, & growth through the arts.

A BOLD VISION

A Manhattan that is recognized, celebrated, and sought-after for its thriving arts, cultural, and entertainment offerings.

Transforming the Wareham Opera House into Wareham Hall, a thriving arts and cultural center that addresses the previously outlined community needs, would be the first of its kind in Manhattan.

To be successful, this historic endeavor requires a clear vision, and more importantly, a commitment to values and beliefs that drive decision-making.

STAFF & BOARD OF DIRECTORS STAFF

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

WAYNE SLOAN LEAH HYMAN

BLADE MAGES Executive Director

HEIDI BROWN Development Manager

BRYAN PINKALL

KEVIN PEIRCE

DARREN DODGE

TODD HOLMBERG

JACKIE HARTMAN BORCK President

MARY VANIER Vice

JEFF SACKRIDER Secretary

BILL LANSDOWNE Treasurer

CHERYL GRICE

DIRK DAVELINE BRENDA BUTLER

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, & BELONGING

Setting the stage for community connection, inspiration, and growth through the arts means Wareham Hall is proactively engaging with performers and patrons of all backgrounds, cultures, races, ethnicities, ages, abilities, sexual orientations, genders, gender identities, gender expressions, religious and political views, and more.

WE BELIEVE OUR STAGE HAS THE POWER TO BUILD EMPATHY AND ESTABLISH A PROFOUND SENSE OF BELONGING FOR EACH MEMBER OF THE GREATER MANHATTAN REGION.

We commit to engaging in this vital work with humility, integrity, accountability, patience, courage, and joy, because organizations with equitable systems create a more vibrant, powerful, and just world.

GUIDING VALUES

PARTNERSHIP

We believe cooperation is necessary to build a vibrant, interconnected, and engaged arts community. We embrace collaboration and seek to cultivate meaningful partnerships with artists, organizations, stakeholders, and other members of the community.

INCLUSIVITY

We believe in providing a space for all performers and patrons to share and experience all forms of artistic expression. We strive to remove barriers, foster an environment of inclusivity, and celebrate diversity.

SAFETY

We believe a safe environment is essential for our work and the experiences we seek to create. We are committed to creating a secure environment that prioritizes the prevention of harm or injury while also fostering a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.

SUSTAINABILITY

We believe in creating, and more importantly, protecting the historic home of an arts and entertainment ecosystem in Manhattan for generations to come. We commit to financial responsibility, stewardship of resources, and sustainable practices.

OPENNESS

We believe being open to new ideas can be more transformational than ideas themselves. We encourage and embrace the new, the unfamiliar, and the experimental.

VISION & PLAN OUR

WAREHAM HALL

It will create a sense of place for the arts and entertainment in Manhattan.

BUILDING OUR HOME FOR THE ARTS

Our program is diverse and designed to attract a wide array of performers and patrons, necessitating a space that is versatile and adaptable for a range of event types.

The renovation of the century-old structure presents an exciting opportunity to address existing issues, transforming it into an ideal home for our program and unlocking its full potential as a beacon for the arts in our community.

ACCESSIBILITY FOR ALL

The Wareham's current state presents many accessibility challenges in its primary spaces, such as the restrooms, stage, and balcony. The renovation brings a promising opportunity to

overcome these limitations and create a fully inclusive experience for all patrons and performers, fostering an environment that welcomes and celebrates everyone.

EXCEPTIONAL ARTIST EXPERIENCE

As a performer at the Wareham today, there is only a second-floor apartment to serve as a green room. To take the stage, artists must walk from the green room, around the building, and down the alley in order to take the stage from an unseen entrance.

When completed, Wareham Hall will welcome road-weary performing artists and crew members with exceptional hospitality and a VIP experience through comfortable lounge spaces, private showers, laundry facilities, and other amenities designed with them in mind.

REMARKABLE SPACE FOR PATRONS

Upon entering the renovated Wareham Hall, patrons will be greeted with a thoughtfully transformed lobby that combines historic charm with modern touches. As they gather with friends and family, they can enjoy engaging conversations in a comfortable atmosphere.

Venturing to the second-floor lounge overlooking Manhattan's bustling Poyntz Avenue, patrons will be able to enjoy a beverage while taking in the view of downtown. From the lounge, they'll have access to the main hall, where the captivating performance awaits.

This revitalized space will serve not only as a venue for remarkable performances but also as a cherished gathering place where community comes together to appreciate the creative spirit.

The Wareham Hall experience will make every visit a memorable occasion.

Upgraded and Inclusive Facilities

MODERNIZED SITE INFRASTRUCTURE

Currently, the Wareham is heated and cooled by a series of louvers, fans, and boilers, all estimated to be from the 1910s. The electrical service to the stage is unsafe and unsuitable for access by performers. There are failures in the roof, leaks in the lobby, and cracks in the floor. Furthermore, the existing restrooms are limited in number and not easily accessible, posing challenges for visitors. A proper renovation of this

iconic structure involves a complete rebuild of the venue’s key infrastructure, including upgrading all spaces to meet accessibility requirements and accommodate increased capacity. This comprehensive overhaul will ensure that Wareham Hall serves generations to come, providing a safe, accessible, and comfortable experience for all visitors.

WORLD-CLASS TECHNOLOGY

The future Wareham Hall will boast cutting-edge acoustical, theatrical, lighting, and projection equipment unparalleled in any Manhattan venue. Advanced technology, such as e-coustics and electronic architecture, will allow us to transform the "acoustic canvas" for diverse performances. Additionally, the state-of-the-

art equipment will create a unique educational environment, offering local students hands-on experience with industryleading technology. This combination of performance versatility and educational opportunities will position Wareham Hall as a valuable asset to the Manhattan community.

MULTIPLE SPACES FOR PROGRAMMING

In addition to the main performance auditorium, Wareham Hall will feature versatile supporting spaces, designed to accommodate a diverse range of events and uses. These multipurpose areas will complement the main auditorium, allowing for both large signature events and intimate gatherings. With the flexibility to host smaller events

when the main auditorium is not in use, these additional spaces add value for organizations or individuals renting the venue for weddings, business meetings, fundraisers, and more. This versatility will play a crucial role in ensuring the organization’s long-term sustainability and continued success in serving the community.

Lower Lobby

DIVERSE SEATING FOR ENHANCED EXPERIENCES

The thoughtful renovation will include a variety of seating arrangements to cater to different preferences and budgets. With the creation of an orchestra level, mezzanine, balcony, and exclusive box gallery, every visitor will find a comfortable and enjoyable seating option. This multi-level design will allow us to accommodate large audiences for major events,

while also offering intimate spaces for smaller gatherings. The versatile seating configuration will ensure that Wareham Hall remains an inclusive and welcoming venue that celebrates the diverse community it serves and provides an exceptional experience for all patrons.

Mezzanine & Balcony

Marquee Lounge

Lobby & Main Hall

Performer Green Room

Lower Lobby & Restrooms

INVOLVEMENT YOUR

A $35M campaign is

a monumental task.

Every contribution to this campaign will have a significant impact. As we join together as one, we will ensure this historic community treasure and all that it represents will continue to provide memorable experiences for generations to come.

YOUR SUPPORT OF WAREHAM HALL WILL ENABLE US TO:

ENHANCE a blossoming local arts ecosystem

GROW educational and artistic programming

DRIVE countless patrons to our thriving downtown district

CREATE an experience that enhances the quality of life for all in the region

BUILD a purposeful, versatile, and accessible facility

SET THE STAGE YOUR

Leadership gifts can be pledged over 1, 3, or 5 year periods.

A HISTORIC MATCH

Wareham Hall holds a unique position as a contributing building to the downtown business district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

While the building itself is not individually listed, its status enables our organization to receive historic tax credits for improvements made.

By investing in our capital project, we unlock a historic opportunity. For most qualified expenses, we will receive 30 cents in state tax credits per dollar spent, which can then be sold for an estimated $0.92 per dollar.

EVERY DOLLAR INVESTED IN CONSTRUCTION WILL BE MATCHED BY $0.26, ULTIMATELY REALIZING AN ESTIMATED $4+ MILLION ENDOWMENT TO SUSTAIN OPERATIONS.

Unlike many who use tax credits to finance capital expenditure, our visionary approach involves using the proceeds from the sale of these tax credits to establish an endowment. This strategy not only supports ongoing operations but also ensures the continued success and sustainability of Wareham Hall, preserving its legacy for future generations.

SO MUCH MORE THAN A NEON SIGN

For over 140 years, a structure has stood at 410 Poyntz Avenue with the purpose of bringing our community together to experience events and celebrate the power of the performing arts. While that structure still stands today, to most it is merely an iconic, yet fading, neon sign—a representation of a bygone era.

This brave endeavor is not just a project for the people of Manhattan; it is a project for our region, our state, and for the generations yet to come. It is a project for our artists, storytellers, historians, and educators. It is a project for community vitality.

The $35M campaign has already garnered encouraging early support because community members and leaders recognize that arts and entertainment are not luxuries, they are necessities required by a thriving and modern city.

Today, the Wareham sits idle as the Greater Manhattan region strives to be an attractive, vibrant home for students, young professionals, older adults, and everyone in between. Those who have joined us believe it is long past due to transform one of Manhattan’s most underutilized assets into a driver of community growth and a source of joy, wonder, and empowerment for all who live in or visit Manhattan.

We all have a responsibility to ensure access to experiences that not only entertain but foster empathy, challenge assumptions, and unite people. Your financial commitment is essential to make certain we can achieve our ambitious goals.

On behalf of our board of directors and fundraising team, it is with great pleasure that I am able to share with you our vision and plan for Wareham Hall, and I ask that you join me in setting the stage for community connection, inspiration, and growth through the arts with this monumental endeavor.

Sincerely,

Blade Mages Executive Director

To learn more about Wareham Hall please visit WarehamHall.org

If you have ideas for programming, stories of the Wareham, or would like to learn more about making a financial contribution, please contact:

Blade Mages | (785) 614-1442 | blade@warehamhall.org

If you have ideas for programming, stories of the Wareham, or would like to learn more about making a financial contribution, please contact: Blade Mages | (785) 614-1442 | blade@warehamhall.org WAREHAMHALL.ORG