Help Save the Charles Theatre
Support urgent repairs to protect a historic Charles City landmark from further damage.
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The Charles Theatre and the Charles City Arts Center are partnering to support the preservation of this historic building. The Charles City Arts Center, 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
Why Repairs are Needed
The Charles Theatre is experiencing active water infiltration that is damaging the building and accelerating deterioration. Water entering through the roofline and exterior masonry is weakening the structural materials, damaging historic architectural features, and will lead to increasingly costly repairs if left unaddressed.
Addressing these issues now will help stabilize the building, prevent further damage, and preserve an important piece of Charles City's history for future generations.
This cherished building reflects the heritage, character, and pride of Charles City. With your help, it will remain 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 more than $190,000 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 focuses on the most critical issues contributing to water infiltration. This work includes rebuilding deteriorated parapet sections and installing through-wall flashing to redirect water away from the building and prevent it from becoming trapped within the masonry walls. These repairs are essential to stabilizing the structure and preventing further damage.
Future phases will address additional preservation needs, including terra cotta repair and reglazing, tuckpointing deteriorated mortar joints, and replacement of failing sealants. Together, these repairs will help protect the building from moisture intrusion while preserving its historic character.
The work will be completed by TNT Tuckpointing & Building Restoration, a contractor specializing in historic masonry restoration and preservation. Their approach follows recognized historic preservation standards and focuses on protecting the architectural features that make the Charles Theatre an important part of Charles City's heritage.
The current fundraising campaign is focused on helping launch Phase 1. By addressing the most urgent repairs now, we can stabilize the building, prevent additional deterioration, and create a strong foundation for future preservation efforts.
At this time, the project is not expected to impact normal theatre operations or business hours.
CHARLES CITY ARTS CENTER