The merging of the two buildings owned by the Gallatin Theatre League is underway.
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The two will be connected physically after an eight foot wide fire-proof door allows the left wing of the stage in the GLT building to be connected to the Kulis building.
“Basically we’re doing all the things on the final checklist to make the Kulis building structurally sound and ready for the next stage — which has yet to be named,” said Tammy Gay, president of the theatre board.
The Kulis Appliance Building, located next door to the Courter Theater, is historically significant on several counts — it is the only three-story building on its square; its metal façade is one of many unique architectural features of the circa 1800 building; and it carries forward the architectural integrity of the original Townsend Block. In yesteryear, all the storefronts north to the four-way stop were of the same design. A fire in the 1800s destroyed the top floors of the northern buildings, but a firewall prevented damage to the Kulis Building.
A new roof has already been installed, wiring and electrical issues have been dealt with, new windows are in place upstairs and down, and the theatre sports a new marquee.
John Kramer out of Jamesport has been contracted to do the work, which includes replacing the floor in the back area, damaged by termites, with a brand new floor.
The building is getting water and sewer hook-ups so it will be ready for the final plan.
Currently the restroom facilities are located upstairs. The bathroom will be installed downstairs in order to be handicapped accessible and for public venue.
The backdoor and front step will also get some work.
Theater League members will install a corrugated tin ceiling upstairs, over chipped and cracked plaster. The ceiling will be dust fee, safer, and more aesthetically appealing. The area will be used to store costumes, for rehearsal space; and for office space.
During earlier work nights, the Theatre League took down the partitions that divided the downstairs to make it one open space.
“After we’ve finished the ceiling, we’ll reconvene and decide the next step for use of the building in the downstairs area,” said Mrs. Gay.
The plan is to have the work done by the fall in order to host a patron appreciation event during September or October.
