The popular Imperial Theatre 50/50 Cash Lottery is back with a new goal and a couple of changes.
Executive Director Brian Austin Jr. said they're thrilled to bring the fundraising campaign back.
"The first iteration really helped us through the pandemic and we were able to complete a five-year capital plan in just under two years," he said. "So we have moved onto our next five-year capital plan and we're hoping the community will rally again and help us reach our goal."
The original 50/50 campaign, which ran from October 2020 to October 2023, resulted in $2.5 million in prizes and $1.8 million for Theatre Sarnia (after associated fees).
Money raised through the original campaign was used to complete renovations to public washroom facilities, upgrade to LED theatre lighting, install state-of-the-art PA and sound systems, and renovate the theatre's auditorium.
The next capital campaign will focus on equipment upgrades at Imperial Theatre, as well as a centennial legacy project.
"In 2027, it's the 100th anniversary of Theatre Sarnia. So the plan is to raise funds to completely rebuild our production facility, which is located on Campbell Street," Austin Jr. said. "Right now, it's a little run down and we want to breathe new life into it so that all of our members and volunteers have a state-of-the-art facility, not only to perform in but to create sets, props, wardrobes, and set décor... all of the behind the scenes elements. We want to give them just as great a facility as the performers [have] at Imperial Theatre."
The legacy project is estimated to cost around $1 million, however, Austin Jr. said totals are still being worked out.
He said this round of fundraising will feature several early bird prizes, including large cash sums, as well as theatre tickets.
"In future draws, we're going to be promoting staycations that are going to highlight all of Sarnia's great hotels, restaurants, and local amenities," he said. "Another change in the program is that instead of being monthly draws, it's going to be roughly every three months, and that will give the pot a chance to get bigger and more exciting."
The new 50/50 campaign began on January 10 and will run until February 29, with a winner to be drawn on March 1 at 10 a.m.
Ticket prices range from five for $10 to 300 for $75. Tickets can be purchased online at www.imperialtheatre5050.net.