Help Save the Charles Theatre
Exciting news: Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community and newly awarded grant funding, critical Phase 1 repairs are officially underway!
These urgent repairs will stop water intrusion and stabilize the building, protecting the Charles Theatre from further deterioration.
This is an exciting milestone—but it's only the beginning. The full restoration project is nearly $250,000, and we're continuing to raise funds for the remaining work.
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Every dollar donated today stays with the project and reduces the amount we still need to raise to complete the full restoration.
The Charles Theatre and the Charles City Arts Council are partnering to support the preservation of this historic building. The Charles City Arts Council, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is serving as the fiscal sponsor for this campaign and will manage all donations received for Charles Theatre preservation efforts.
Contributions are tax-deductible as allowed by law
Donations can also be sent to:
Charles City Arts Council
P.O. Box 3
Charles City, IA 50616
Please note "Theatre Repair Project" in the memo line.
Why Repairs are Needed
The Charles Theatre has active water infiltration that is damaging the building and its historic features. Water entering through the roofline and exterior masonry can weaken structural materials and cause additional damage if not addressed.
When the issue was discovered, temporary measures were put in place to reduce water intrusion while a long-term repair plan was developed. After months of planning, grant applications, and fundraising, Phase 1 repairs are now moving forward.
Phase 1 addresses the most urgent needs: rebuilding deteriorated sections of the parapet and installing through-wall flashing to properly direct water away from the building. This work is expected to be completed by the end of October 2026.
Once Phase 1 is complete, the remaining repairs are planned for 2027, with timing dependent on weather and grant funding. These repairs will address additional masonry, terra cotta, tuckpointing, and sealant work, followed by preventive measures to help protect the building into the future.
This is more than repairing a building. It is an investment in a place that reflects the heritage, character, and pride of Charles City—and in keeping the Charles Theatre part of our community for generations to come.
See the Damage
Years of exposure to the elements and ongoing water infiltration have taken a toll on the Charles Theatre. These photos show some of the deterioration affecting the building's exterior and highlight why repairs are needed now to prevent further damage.
The parapet lacks proper flashing to direct water out of the wall. Through-wall flashing must be installed to prevent water infiltration.
The parapet lacks proper flashing to direct water out of the wall. Through-wall flashing must be installed to prevent water infiltration.
Failed sealant at these joints allows water to enter the building. The deteriorated sealant must be removed and replaced with new backer rod and sealant.
The parapet lacks proper flashing to direct water out of the wall. Through-wall flashing must be installed to prevent water infiltration.
Project Details
A recent restoration assessment identified nearly $250,000 in repair needs at the Charles Theatre. To address these needs responsibly, the project has been divided into phases, allowing the most urgent repairs to begin immediately while additional funding is secured for future work.
🟢 Phase 1 - Parapet Rebuilding, Through-Wall Flashing: $79,946
(Funded – Construction is underway!)
⚪Phase 2 - Terra Cotta Repair & Reglazing: $116,512
⚪Phase 3 - Spot Tuckpointing: $35,295
⚪Phase 4 - Joint Sealant Replacement: $15,705
Phase 1: Stabilizing the Building
Phase 1 addresses the most critical source of ongoing water infiltration. This work includes rebuilding deteriorated parapet sections and installing through-wall flashing to redirect water away from the building and prevent moisture from becoming trapped within the masonry walls.
These repairs will stabilize the structure, stop ongoing water damage, and help preserve the building while additional restoration work is completed.
Looking Ahead
Future phases will focus on restoring the Charles Theatre's historic exterior by repairing the terra cotta, restoring deteriorated brick and mortar, and replacing aging sealants to better protect the building from future water intrusion.
Together, these improvements will preserve the theatre's historic character and help ensure it remains a community landmark for generations to come.
Project Progress
Thanks to generous community support and successful grant applications, funding has been secured for Phase 1, and construction is underway - expected to be complete by the end of October.
We're continuing to pursue grants and welcome community donations to help fund the remaining phases of restoration. Every contribution brings us one step closer to completing this important preservation project.
The work is being completed by TNT Tuckpointing & Building Restoration, a contractor specializing in historic masonry restoration. Their work follows recognized historic preservation standards while protecting the architectural features that make the Charles Theatre such an important part of Charles City's history.
At this time, the project is not expected to impact normal theatre operations or business hours.
CHARLES CITY ARTS CENTER