Muny Updates Progress on Capital Campaign

Muny Updates Progress on Capital Campaign

Nearly a year into the public phase of their Second Century Capital Campaign, The Muny announced this week a progress update of $72 million raised to date of its $100 million goal.

A first of its kind for the nation’s oldest and largest outdoor theatre, the gifts acquired during this campaign will support capital improvements that include a complete rebuild of the Muny stage, extensive renovations to backstage support spaces, assistance for the maintenance and upkeep of the aging 11.5-acre campus, and the growth of the theatre’s endowment.

The campaign will also aid in continuing The Muny’s core mission of remaining accessible through its 1,500 free seats and Community Access Program.

Photo by Julie A. Merkle“This campaign would not be possible without the generous support of countless Muny-goers,” said President and CEO Denny Reagan. “We are truly humbled and thankful and look forward to completing this campaign with St. Louis by our side.”    “The support the St. Louis community has given The Muny through this campaign in just under a year is remarkable,” said Muny Second Century Capital Campaign Chairman Jim Turley. “Without them, the second century of magic would not be possible.” “It is up to all of us to continue making The Muny the best it can be for generations to come,” said Director of Advancement Courtney Simms. “We have achieved much success in this campaign so far, but still have an exciting journey ahead. Every gift matters!”To give, or for more information regarding The Muny’s Second Century Capital Campaign, please visit muny.org/secondcentury.

The Muny Acquires Multi-Million Gift to Aid in Renovations

The Muny Acquires Multi-Million Gift to Aid in Renovations

The Muny has announced the acquisition of a $4 million gift from Barbara and Andrew Taylor towards The Muny’s Second Century Capital Campaign. Given in honor of their great niece and current Muny Teen Allison Broadhurst, who began performing at The Muny in 2011, this gift will aid in the renovation of The Muny’s West Platform.

Located adjacent to the West Pre-Show Stage and Picnic Plaza, this platform is utilized in a variety of ways, including: an outdoor rehearsal space, a performance stage for Muny Kids and Teens showcases and private pre-show events. In the off-season, it serves as a gathering space for community events such as Earth Day, the African Arts Film Festival and private events. 

With this generous gift, a state-of-the-art renovation to the West Platform will be made possible. Improvements will include enhanced lighting, large-scale fans, a new dance floor complete with an operational turntable and landscaping. It will also include updates to the prop storage warehouse located directly beneath the platform.

“We are honored and grateful to receive such a generous gift from Barbara and Andy,” said Muny President and CEO Denny Reagan. “The West Platform renovation that this gift makes possible is crucial to the success of our productions and for them to honor Allison and all of the young people who are a part of each summer here is a uniquely fitting touch.”

“The Muny is truly a singular institution that has been a cultural staple for over a century,” said Barbara Taylor. “Our gift, in honor of Allison, will help continue their mission and offer artists a state-of-the-art rehearsal space that is truly one of a kind.”

“Barbara and I have shared countless Muny memories together,” said Andrew Taylor. “Thanks to Allison, we have gained a ‘behind the curtain’ sense of what each production takes. This being said, we are thrilled to see what a renovated rehearsal space will provide for years of magic to come.”

Construction Plans

Work is progressing on the Muny renovations as part of the Second Century Campaign. Photo by Phillip Hamer.So far, planned improvements include replacement of the light bridge, stage, and surrounding structures.

The new stage design will also provide additional protection for the orchestra and their instruments. New lighting and improved audio and video will bring more vibrant imagery to productions.

The stage will be replaced with multiple stage decks, including the turntable, and stage floor tracking that will increase flexibility and enable scene changes more quickly and seamlessly.

The entryway improvement plans include new theatre gates, architectural lighting, refurbished fountains, restoration of the pergolas and more.

Indoor, climate-controlled orchestra rehearsal space is in the works.

For construction updates, visit https://munysecondcentury.org/construction-updates/

To give, or for more information regarding The Muny’s Second Century Capital Campaign, please visit muny.org/secondcentury

To view a Tarlton Construction update, here is the video: