Little Theater gets big facelift

SANDPOINT — After years of fundraising, the Little Theater is getting a big facelift this summer.

Carpenters, electricians, air technicians and Panida staff have been working overtime for months to bring the theater up to fire code by installing a new set of stairs, making the deck safer and installing a new emergency exit.

Workers will also put in a new heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit to keep the space cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The building is also getting an electric overhaul to update work lights, operating lights and theatrical lights.

Theater staff are also working to make the space aesthetically pleasing and comfortable with the addition of new chairs, a new chandelier and fresh paint.

Karen Bowers, the Panida’s director, said the work has been moving smoothy and expects the theater to be ready for its next event, scheduled for July 31.

Like its big brother next door, the Little Theater hosts an array of events, including film screenings, concerts, dinners and seminars. It is also a valuable rehearsal space for theater events at the Panida.

Funds for the project — estimated at $40,000 — were provided by the Confidence Foundation, the Fenton Family Trust of the Idaho Community Foundation, proceeds from the Holly Eve Foundation, Avista Utilities, the Community Assistance League, memorial contributions in honor of Mary Kay Atteberry, and community donations.

The Panida is intending to reopen the Little Theater July 31 with The Black Box Comedy Project, produced and performed by the Sandpoint Theater Company, at 8 p.m. The group will perform a series of eight original “Saturday Night Live”-type vignettes with adult-themed humor. Tickets are $10 each and available by calling Ted or Betty at 255-5601. Wine and hors d’oeuvres will be available for a reasonable additional price.