The Delta Arts Alliance, in conjunction with The Cleveland Current, is hosting a “Non-Event” to raise much-needed funding for matching grants to help the first part of Phase III of the renovations to the Ellis Theater.

“This idea was originally considered years ago, but other events took precedence and this idea was somewhat pushed to the side,” Jonathan Jenkins, executive director of DAA, said. “When the board was trying to think of a fitting event for raising money for the renovation of the auditorium of the Ellis Theater, this seemed like the perfect time to revisit the idea.”

Not having to cover expenses such as food and entertainment allows all funds raised to go towards a matching portion of grant funding the DAA received through the Mississippi Arts Commission and Rural Development. The money will help with the stabilization of the rear walls of the auditorium, construction of a permanent floor, and repointing of bricks. The total received through grants is $194,500 and the matching portion for DAA is $30,000.

“Without the help of the community, it would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to gain enough financial support to see this historic building returned to its former glory,” Jenkins said. “When many of the residents of Cleveland think about their first dates, things that they did on the weekend, or where they were when they saw their favorite film as a child/teen, they think of the Ellis. We are only hoping that we gain enough support to help a new generation build fond memories of this local treasure as well. Please support us in our cause.”

Ross Barkley, architect for the project, said the first part of Phase III is critical to the future of the building.

“Right now we have to stabilize the soil because we’re going to be increasing the building capacity,” he said. “The Jones Bayou side — it’s settling, deteriorating and we’re going to be increasing the bearing capacity.”

Barkley said since the building is on the National Register of Historic Places it makes handling the renovation and repairs much more sensitive.

“It’s very sensitive, it’s very careful, and it’s very costly.”

He added, “It’s exciting. It’s going to be, hopefully, the end product is going to be a really big asset for the town and that’s what we’re looking to do. Revive the Ellis Theater.

The full renovation project will actually involve “building” another building inside the Ellis. Due to the historic nature of the site, the exterior cannot be changed but the interior can be renovated and remodeled. And the first step is getting the foundation and walls stabilized for future phases.

Donations can be sent to Delta Arts Alliance, P.O. Box 763, Cleveland, MS  38732. They can also be delivered to the Ellis Theater at 104 S. Court St. in Cleveland.

Different levels of donations are available from $50-$1,000 and up. Donations are tax deductible.

“If they are brought in person, we would invite you to please take time to view the Sammy Britt exhibit that will be showing thru October,” Jenkins added.