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John R. Oishei Foundation gives major gift toward Lockport's Palace Theatre renovation efforts

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Mon, Jan 6th 2020 02:35 pm

The Historic Palace Theatre has received a $100,000 grant from The John R. Oishei Foundation in support of its “Act II – A Grand Restoration” renovation project. This gift will support the Palace’s larger $3.3 million “Act II” project.

Phase one renovations to the outer lobby, and restoration and repairs to interior plaster, were completed in October 2018. Phase two work, which included upgrades to the concession and bar area, the creation of a new merchandise area, and additional plaster restoration, was unveiled this past November. Funding from The John R. Oishei Foundation will help to support the next crucial phases of this project into 2021. The goal is to provide patrons and performers the modern comforts they require, attract more events and visitors to Lockport's downtown, and preserve this historic theater for future generations to enjoy.

“At the Historic Palace Theatre, we are dedicated to serving the community in every way that we can. The Palace is the place in Lockport where parents take their children to see exceptional talent perform shows like our upcoming musical, ‘Matilda,’ and where grandparents watch their grandchildren's dance recitals. It is where children go to theater school to gain confidence and learn the fundamentals of a working theater, while often gaining a life-long appreciation of the arts in the process,” said Christopher Parada, executive director of the Historic Palace Theatre. “This generous gift from The John R. Oishei Foundation brings us one step closer to achieving our goal of re-establishing the Palace as a high-quality venue in WNY’s thriving theater and performance community, while continuing to be a positive influence on local families and the community.”

The John R. Oishei Foundation enhances the economic vitality and quality of life for the Buffalo Niagara Region through grantmaking, leadership and network building. John R. Oishei, founder of Trico Products Corp, established the foundation in 1940.

The Historic Palace Theatre is located in the heart of downtown Lockport. Built in 1925 by Charles Dickenson, the proscenium-arch-style space is noted as a gem of the city. The venue is owned and operated by a nonprofit organization, Historic Palace Inc. For more information, call the Palace Theatre at 716-438-1130 or visit www.lockportpalacetheatre.org.

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