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CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – July 23, 2026 <br /> <br />Page | 5 <br /> <br />President Relos asked, are the organizations listed interested in <br />providing programming once the theater is renovated? Rose Meissner <br />with the Community Foundation stated yes. Those organizations <br />represent an initial group of potential programming partners. The vision <br />is to operate the State Theater as an independent nonprofit cinema and <br />arts venue, offering films, festivals, lectures, live performances, and <br />community events year-round. The goal is to complement and support <br />other arts and cultural activities in the region while creating a highly <br />active downtown destination. <br /> <br />The proposal includes multiple theater screens, flexible event spaces, <br />accessible facilities on every level, and opportunities for venue rentals. <br />While live performances are envisioned, the cinema component is <br />expected to serve as the primary source of operating revenue, helping <br />ensure the long-term sustainability of the facility. <br /> <br />Ms. Meissner added, The Community Foundation has committed $2 <br />million to the project and authorized staff to lead the effort. The <br />proposal also secured a $4 million READI Arts and Culture Grant, one <br />of the largest awards issued statewide. Additional philanthropic funding <br />is being pursued to move the project forward. <br /> <br />The vision is to restore the State Theater as a vibrant regional arts and <br />entertainment destination, featuring multiple cinema screens, live <br />performance space, event rentals, and year-round programming. <br />Potential partners include local arts and cultural organizations such as <br />DTSB, Visit South Bend, the South Bend Symphony, Civic Theatre, <br />Notre Dame, and the St. Joseph County Public Library. <br /> <br />The multi-screen model is intended to create a financially sustainable <br />operation by supporting films, festivals, lectures, performances, and <br />community events. The renovated facility would also include full <br />accessibility improvements, flexible event spaces, and amenities that <br />support a wide range of community uses. <br /> <br />Commissioner Ellison asked what size the main theater would be, and <br />what types of films and programming would be offered? Mr. Molnar <br />stated that the original State Theater seated approximately 2,000– <br />2,500 patrons but maintaining a single theater of that size is not <br />financially practical today. The proposal would create a larger main <br />theater, positioned between the size of the Civic Theatre and the <br />Morris Performing Arts Center, along with four smaller screens. <br /> <br />Ms. Meissner explained that programming could include independent <br />films, classic movies, film festivals, international cinema, documentaries,