Project Area: Quality of Life

Actual Ballot Text

(7) $497,435 for upgrades/improvements to the Greenwood Community Theatre located within the City of Greenwood;

Project Overview

Opened on January 3, 1935, the State Theatre made history as Greenwood’s first modern, purpose-built, single-screen movie theater. In 1978, it underwent a transformative change when owner C. Pope Gantt sold the property to the Greenwood Community Theatre, exclusively transitioning it into a venue for live performances.

As a non-profit organization, GCT extends beyond a mere venue, serving as a safe space for children to explore performing arts, encouraging literacy through literary-based children’s shows, and promoting inclusivity initiatives such as our Penguin Project.

The building, a central fixture in Greenwood’s past, present, and future, has become the heart of our community, hosting a myriad of events. The 2006-2007 Emerald Triangle initiative helped restore the building to its former glory and instill pride in the community.

However, the wear and tear have resurfaced, exacerbated by the challenges of the past year. The building has begun to show signs of aging. Roof leaks, structural cracks, and failing technology have become pressing issues that demand urgent attention.

This project aims to ensure the future health of the Greenwood Community Theatre, specifically the physical well-being. The scope of the project includes replacing the roof, fixing structural issues causing cracking in the exterior brick (and potentially making the building unsafe), re-pointing the mortar and waterproofing the brick to address leaks, addressing technical and wiring deficiencies, and other interior projects which have become necessary due to the continued use.