RestoreReimagineRevitalize

The feasibility study for the Dunbar Theatre, completed in 2006, used the 2003 McAdams Neighborhood Revitalization Plan as a guide. That plan called for re-launching the theater as an arts and cultural anchor for the community, and as a major contribute to Wichita’s cultural landscape. Power CDC’s purchase of the theater in 2007 began a decade-long effort to protect the theater building, and to begin raising funds for eventual restoration.

Vision

Turning the lights back on at the Historic Dunbar Theatre by illuminating the community one production at a time.

Mission

Present a variety of arts programs celebrating African-American heritage and providing creative enrichment resources for the Dunbar/McAdams Arts and Business District.

The Project

The project to restore the Dunbar District is planned in three phases, making the theatre the first priority.

Phase I

Restore the 340-seat theatre and stage, creating a space for small-scale theatrical productions, film/multi-media programs, recitals and community events.

Expand footprint to allow for box office and back-of-house spaces for equipment and artists
Build essential public concessions and restroom spaces

Phase II-III

The second and third phases of the project involve later development of the adjoining land parcels into:

150-180 seat black box theater, allowing more flexible space for performances, special events and community forums
Education facilities linked to theater arts and crafts
Public gallery and bookstore
Offices to serve the facility and the community
Café/soda fountain transforming the former drug store building
Retail block along 9th street to create a commercial corridor and provide revenue to the arts center
On-site parking

A Neighborhood Center

The restored theatre will provide the space for programming and neighborhood initiatives.

Arts classes
Rental opportunities
Programming for at-risk youth

Theatre

Small theatrical performances
Poetry & staged readings
Plays & musical theatre

Dance/Performance Art

Modern dance
African
Hip-hop
Step dance

Visual Arts

Film/new media projections
Small exhibitions
Small visual art installations

Educational

History programs
Youth programs
Collaborations with city-wide institutions

Community

Public & private events
Group gatherings
Social & cultural events

Market Overview

Special events and programs will target a variety of audiences, from young professionals to long-time neighborhood residents. There are four core audience segments:

McAdams Residents
Neighborhood residents have a longstanding historical and emotional relationship with the Dunbar. They will be strong audience for community programs, special events and venue rentals.

Cultural Event Attendees
Wichita is a city with many arts and culture lovers. More than 1.9 million people attended cultural events in Wichita in 2012.

Young Professionals
Young people get out and do things, and are not afraid to try something new. Those with a discretionary incomes enjoy spending it on cultural activities and social events.

Community and social services
Local churches, sororities, fraternities and civic groups are in great need of meeting and event space.

Donate

Even a small monthly gift can go a long way

Volunteer

We could always use a hand

See Our Plan

RestoreReimagineRevitalize

Vision

Mission