Through generous local support, the Holland Theatre was recently able to purchase a much-needed new projector. The community is invited to celebrate at a free showing of the summertime classic Field of Dreams at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8
At 16,000 lumens, the new laser projector is nearly four times as bright as the old projector. Fundraising for the project began last fall with a fundraiser that featured live music and an auction. Major donors included Pat Ortli, William Connell, Steve and Kay Spath, and the estate of Judy Grubbs.
“We’re excited to be able to offer an improved viewing experience for our free movie series and for collaborations with local nonprofits,” theater officials said. “Many of the artists who perform at the Holland also require projection for their events, and we’ll be able to fulfill that now at a higher caliber.”
Holland Board Member Mike Suman took the lead on researching projectors and was able to secure one for a lower price than originally estimated. Donations also covered the cost of the new support structure, built by Mark Amidon, that was fabricated and installed to house the projector.
In addition to this new laser projector, the the theater also has a new on-stage projector, designed to project backdrops, etc. That projector was purchased by Windmill Productions.
Donors and fundraiser participants for the laser project will be recognized at the showing of Field of Dreams, the Kevin Costner hit from 1989.
Tickets for the event are available online at TheHolland.org, by phone at 937-592-9002, or in person at the box office, 127 E. Columbus Ave. Box office hours are Tuesday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Thursday and Friday 1 to 5 p.m.
The following weekend, Windmill Productions pays tribute to 15 Years of Shows in a special presentation set for Saturday, Aug. 16.
