Menard Electric Cooperative presented a $2,000 donation to the Theatre in the Park at Lincoln’s New Salem Historic Site on July 13 before a performance of Distant Thunder. Pictured are General Manager Alisha Anker, Board President Jay Frye and Director of Member Services Trish Michels presenting the check to Theatre in the Park’s Board Secretary Karla Wilhelm and Board President Kristin Wheeler.
Theatre in the Park was chosen as a recipient this year of CoBank’s Sharing Success program, which matches a donation made by Menard Electric to charitable organizations chosen yearly by the co-op’s Board of Directors. Menard Electric is a member of CoBank, a cooperative lending facility.
The donated funds will be used towards the Sights and Sounds for the Future Project, a campaign to update the lighting and sound equipment for the theatre.
Theatre in the Park Board President Kristin Wheeler says, “Each actor on stage uses a microphone pack. We are very appreciative of these funds that will help us to update those packs to provide an even better experience for the audience.”
Theatre in the Park is Central Illinois’ longest running outdoor community theatre and this summer marks its 100th year. In addition to providing entertainment to the community and drawing tourism to the area, the theatre provides education and training to college and high school students as they serve as the sound and lighting crews.
“Menard Electric is excited to be able to partner with CoBank to provide the funds to Theatre in the Park, a great local community theatre that provides so much fun and learning to our area. We were pleased to spend the evening here at the theatre and meet the hardworking crews, and are happy to be a part of ensuring the continuation of a high-quality production.” says Menard Electric General Manager Alisha Anker.