Boyne Theater to Get New Life

News

By Patrick Sullivan | June 6, 2020

Just as theaters of all kinds around the world face uncertain futures amid a global pandemic, officials in Boyne City announced the revival of a historic 1903 theater.

Richard Bergman, owner of the Boyne City Taproom and the Boyne Theater, had worked for 18 months to develop a plan restore the theater, investing thousands of dollars and countless hours.

Ultimately, Bergman needed help, and the Boyne City Main Street program stepped in, purchasing the theater for $350,000 and taking over the project in the hopes that it will be a long-term beacon for downtown.

The project is expected to take up to five years and cost $2.1 million.

“Boyne City has a very significant longtime emotional and historical relationship with our downtown theater,” Mayor Tom Neidhamer said. “This acquisition is the first step for our community to have the opportunity to become involved in the economic redevelopment of our theater, create an economic engine in our downtown, and encourage the historic preservation of a landmark.”