$100,000 Grant Will Help Restore Manistee's Vogue Theatre

 

MANISTEE, MICHIGAN - The historic Vogue Theatre of Manistee, through a volunteer, community-driven effort, has recently been awarded a $100,000 grant from the Frey Foundation to help restore the Vogue.  This marks the largest grant received to date from a private foundation in support of the $2.25 million Vogue Theatre Capital Campaign. The Theatre's restoration is a top priority in the revitalization of the City of Manistee's downtown and historic districts. 

The Vogue Theatre restoration is truly a 'rain maker' project that will profoundly influence Manistee's economic well-being and quality of life. The grant application was submitted by and awarded to the Manistee County Community Foundation on behalf of the Historic Vogue Theatre of Manistee, the non-profit formed to restore and reopen this landmark venue.    

"We want to express our deep appreciation and gratitude to the Frey Foundation for this generous grant," said David Mix, member of the Vogue Theatre Capital Campaign committee who resides both in the Grand Rapids and Manistee area. "Their support is instrumental in creating a cultural annuity for the Manistee region that will benefit generations to come." 

"Our board was impressed with how the community and people from coast to coast have contributed to bringing the Vogue back to life as an entertainment center on the City's historic River Street," said Steve Wilson, President of the Frey Foundation.  

The reopening of the Vogue is expected to have a dramatic impact on the economy of the area, and further build Manistee's reputation as a leader in the arts and entertainment.  Reopening the doors of the Vogue will be a tangible step toward attaining the visions for downtown Manistee and the surrounding area.  Further, Michael Moore's commitment to assist with programming at the Theatre will certainly enhance the market dynamics of the City.

The Frey Foundation, based in Grand Rapids, is one of Michigan's largest family foundations. Grants are provided primarily to nonprofit organizations in West and Northern Michigan for projects that enhance child development, protect natural resources, promote the arts, and expand philanthropic and civic action.