Jasper Arts: Group continues drive to bring next act to Astra

The Next Act, a group raising funds to purchase and maintain the Astra Theatre, gave an update on the group’s plans at the Jasper Arts Commission’s Tuesday meeting.

Marc Steczyk, president of the board of directors for the nonprofit group, informed the commission The Next Act has raised approximately $150,000 of the $465,000 goal for phase one.

“Once we get to $200,000, that brings up the $100,000 that the Dubois County Community Foundation has granted us,” Steczyk said.

The Dubois County Community Foundation announced a $100,000 matching grant in November. The largest grant the foundation has ever made.

Steczyk says they have a deadline of March 31st to have the $465,000 in hand; $165,000 of that will go towards the purchase price of the facility. The remaining $300,000 will be used to create the endowment to fund the ongoing operating expenses of the facility.

In phase two of the groups plans, they will raise money to install handicap-accessible restrooms. Phase three will be the complete renovation of the facility.

The Next Act can be followed on Facebook, Twitter, and a new website. The website features information about the group’s plans as well as introductions to the individuals leading the efforts. A donation form is also available through the site.

Here are more details on the groups plans.

Foundation announces $100,000 grant for Astra Theatre group

Nonprofit group announces plan to purchase Astra Theatre