Jefferson High awarded grant for theater lighting

Jefferson High School in Boulder, Montana, is poised for a significant upgrade to its performing arts facilities. A nearly $80,000 state grant will fund new theater lighting, following recent improvements to the school’s sound system.

A Community Hub Enhanced

The grant, awarded by Governor Greg Gianforte on January 27, is part of the Montana Main Street Grant program. This program focuses on supporting downtown revitalization and community development initiatives. Jefferson High will also contribute over $28,000 in matching funds to the project.

Did You Know? The Montana Main Street Program was established in 2005 and is administered by the Montana Department of Commerce.

Modernizing Stagecraft

The funding will cover the installation of new LED stage lighting, a digital lighting board and a new lighting grid. Potential upgrades to curtain rigging and replacement of backstage curtains are also being considered, depending on remaining funds. Currently, the school’s lighting system requires manual adjustments, often necessitating a lift and considerable time.

A Game Changer for Productions

Drama teacher Mike Hesford described the current lighting as “really old” and “well past its prime.” The antiquated system limits production choices, leaving portions of the stage in darkness and hindering the creation of nuanced scene lighting. The new digital board will allow for remote control of the lighting, a significant improvement over the current manual process.

Expert Insight: Investing in school theater programmes demonstrates a commitment to fostering creativity and providing students with valuable skills applicable across many disciplines. Modernizing these facilities can significantly enhance the quality of student productions and enrich the cultural life of the surrounding community.

Installation Timeline

Sunshine Productions, the Great Falls-based company that recently upgraded the school’s sound system, is scheduled to return after basketball season concludes in mid-March to complete the lighting installation. The new sound system, installed in January, has already dramatically reduced setup time – from over three hours to just three minutes.

Expanding Creative Possibilities

Hesford noted that the new equipment will allow him to consider lighting and sound design earlier in the show selection process, something previously impossible due to the limitations of the existing infrastructure. He expressed a desire to leave the theater in excellent condition for future generations of students.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Montana Main Street Grant program?

The Montana Main Street Grant program supports downtown revitalization and community development through seed money for high-impact projects.

How much money is Jefferson High School receiving?

Jefferson High School is receiving $78,515 from the Montana Main Street Grant program, and will contribute an additional $28,065 in matching funds.

What improvements will be made to the theater?

The grant will fund new LED stage lighting, a digital lighting board, and a new lighting grid. The school may also upgrade curtain rigging and replace backstage curtains.

How will these improvements impact the future of performing arts at Jefferson High School?

Jefferson High awarded grant for theater lighting | News