The Frontier Center for the Performing Arts
The place for life changing events!
That's how many describe the 1800 seat Frontier Center For The Performing Arts (formerly Civic Center) which is owned and operated by the City of Idaho Falls. Built in 1952, it has a long history serving rural eastern Idaho as a community gathering place for Broadway shows, rock, pop and country western concerts, amateur productions, holiday events, The Forgotten Carols, dance recitals, high school and college graduations, student performances, church related programs and more. And, it is the home of one of eastern Idaho's greatest cultural assets: The 74 year old Idaho Falls Symphony.
In 2016, Idaho Falls Mayor Rebecca Casper called for five volunteers to form a Citizens Committee for determining the future of the "Civic Auditorium", also known as "The Civic." In 2018, the Citizens Committee, working with city officials, submitted a plan to renovate and expand the Civic. Phase I focused mainly on the interior auditorium. It called for replacing the seats and carpets, repainting the ceilings and walls, acoustical improvements, and adding a lighting dimmer system, sound shells, hydraulic orchestra pit lift and electronic marquee on Holmes Ave. Thanks to a $1,057,000 gift from William and Shirley Maeck and their Foundation and $861,135 from the City of Idaho Falls, the renovations were completed in 2019. The Civic Auditorium was renamed "The Civic Center for Performing Arts."
FUNDING COMPLETE FOR FRONTIER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS RENOVATION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Idaho Falls, ID – [May 8, 2024]- The Idaho Falls Civic Foundation and the City of Idaho Falls are thrilled to announce fundraising efforts for the renovation of the Frontier Center for the Performing Arts have been successfully completed. This significant milestone paves the way for transformative upgrades to the iconic venue, enhancing its capabilities and ensuring its continued service to the community for years to come.
The renovation plans include a brand-new lobby space that will triple the current size, providing a more spacious and welcoming environment for patrons. Additionally, over 20 ADA-accessible restrooms will be added, improving accessibility and inclusivity. The cost of the renovation and addition is projected to be $6.4 million.
"We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support from our donors, including Frontier Credit Union, CHC Foundation, and numerous generous community members," said Lara Herway, executive director for the Civic Foundation. "Their contributions have made this ambitious project a reality, and we are excited to pass the baton to the City of Idaho Falls to begin the remodeling process."
The city-owned Frontier Center for the Performing Arts has been a cherished cultural landmark in eastern Idaho for over seven decades, hosting a diverse array of performances, graduations, and community gatherings. Managed for the city by the Idaho Falls Arts Council and home of the renowned Idaho Falls Symphony, the center has enriched the region's artistic landscape and served as a vital hub for artistic expression.
"The Frontier Center holds a special place in the hearts of our community," said City Council President Lisa Burtenshaw. "This renovation will ensure that it continues to be a world-class destination for outstanding performances and events, while preserving its rich history and charm."
To see the designs and learn more about this project, go to https://idahofallscivicfoundation.org/
The Idaho Falls Civic Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, has been instrumental in this endeavor, partnering with the City of Idaho Falls to provide crucial support for the Frontier Center. Their mission is to enhance this iconic venue through generous donations and ensure its continued success as a cultural and artistic hub for generations to come.
About the Idaho Falls Civic Foundation for the Performing Arts:
At The Civic Center for Performing Arts Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, we believe in the transformative power of the arts. As a private/public partnership with the City of Idaho Falls, our mission is to provide crucial support to the Frontier Center For The Performing Arts. Through generous donations from government sources, foundations, businesses, and individuals, we are dedicated to enhancing this iconic venue and making it the destination for life-changing events.
Contact:
Lara Herway, Email: laraherway@gmail.com
Eric Grossarth, (208) 270-3240
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