The historic Fischer Theatre is excited to launch a $30,000 Matching Donation Campaign — an opportunity for the community to double their impact and directly support the ongoing preservation and enhancement of one of Danville’s most treasured landmarks.
Thanks to the generosity of three area families, each pledging $5,000, up to $15,000 in community donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar, unlocking a total of $30,000 in support of key projects at the theatre.
“This campaign is not just about preserving the building — it’s about honoring the people and stories that have shaped the Fischer,” said Ashton Greer, interim director of the Fischer Theatre. “These funds will directly impact how we serve the public and celebrate the legacy of those who’ve made the theatre what it is today.”
The $30,000 raised will be allocated to three impactful projects, and donors will get to select which project they want to contribute towards when they make a pledge:
$10,000 – restoring the original gift shop
$10,000 – upgrading the concession area (to be named The Terry Lake Café)
$10,000 – supporting general operating costs
These essential funds will help sustain day-to-day operations, ensuring the theatre can continue to offer high-quality programming, maintain its historic facility, and remain a cultural hub in downtown Danville.
Donations can be made online at fischertheatre.com/donate or by calling the director at 217-474-2978 to discuss giving options. Every dollar donated during the campaign period will be matched until the $15,000 goal is reached.
The Fischer Theatre relies on the passion and generosity of its supporters. This campaign is a opportunity to preserve its legacy while looking toward the future.
Restoring the original gift shop
Located just off the theatre lobby, this space will be revitalized and made available to a retail tenant — blending its original character with updated, modern functionality.
This $10,000 investment will be combined with a recently awarded $10,237.50 TIF grant from the City of Danville, supporting a full restoration of the space. Planned improvements include new flooring, restoration of original built-in features, resurfaced and repainted walls, and upgraded lighting fixtures — all aimed at preserving the integrity of the past while preparing the space for a vibrant new chapter.
Upgrading the concession area
In honor of longtime volunteer Terry Lake — who generously contributed over 5,000 volunteer hours in just four years, representing an estimated $174,000 in service — this $10,000 investment will help transform the current concession space into The Terry Lake Café. This upgrade not only enhances the guest experience but also serves as a lasting tribute to Terry’s extraordinary dedication. The funds will be combined with additional donations already received in his memory to support the café’s 2025 development plans, which include: display monitors, fountain soda machines and related infrastructure, an ice machine, a deep freezer, and commercial-grade equipment to expand savory offerings for patrons.
Supporting general operating costs
These essential funds will help sustain day-to-day operations, ensuring the theatre can continue to offer high-quality programming, maintain its historic facility, and remain a cultural hub in downtown Danville.
Donations can be made online at fischertheatre.com/donate or by calling the director at 217-474- 2978 to discuss giving options.
Every dollar donated during the campaign period will be matched until the $15,000 goal is reached.