The Rees - Focused on sustainablity
PLYMOUTH – On Feb. 1 of this year The REES marked its 80th anniversary of having a presence in downtown Plymouth. For the theatre to reach its 100th anniversary and beyond, the revival is being accomplished with a focus on sustainability.
The Rees Project Committee that is leading this restoration/renovation effort is now in its third year and about to finish Phase 3 of four planned steps to completion. “This has only been accomplished through the generosity and endeavors of literally hundreds who have volunteered their time, talents and treasures to breathe new life and purpose into this landmark theater,” stated Donna Pontius, co-chair of The REES Project Committee.
In early 2017 the committee involved the community in the campaign to “Imagine the Possibilities” in order to realize the full potential of a revived REES that had served as a source of cinema entertainment to generations of area families. “Many new interests were revealed through community input and groups that we met with and interviewed,” added Pontius.
Research on the successes and failures of other historic theater restorations in five states quickly revealed that a ‘ second-run’ movie house simply would not sustain itself in today’s world of ‘on-demand’ in-home comfort. No, this restoration is centered on not only the presentation of film but also the ability to showcase live stage performances, a community gathering center for education and celebration of life events both public and private. A business plan supports this effort, but in the end, it will be the faces who operate the facility on a daily basis and the systems that are now put into place that will determine it to be a successful and sustainable investment.
Randy Danielson, also a REES Project Committee co-chair, stated: “From the foundation to the roof, known problems have been addressed as well as those that were unknown to us. Local contractors with a ‘ community’ mindset who simply wanted to be sure things are being done right have helped the project progress and remain close to our projected budget.”
In order to have dependable and adequate sources of water, sewer, gas and electric, these systems have all been replaced from their point of origin.
A new insulated roof was completed recently that will become downtown Plymouth’s first rooftop solar array. “This has been made possible by a single donor family from Marshall County who not only supports The REES but the initiative for renewable energy,” said Danielson. “It has been designed to capture up to 90% of our projected energy
consumption and we are proud to showcase this endeavor.”
The REES was chosen as a primary project of the Marshall County Crossroads – Stellar Communities initiative. According to Danielson, “It is expected the final Phase 4 will go out for bid later this spring with an expected completion date in 2021.”
The REES Project Committee welcomes invitations from service clubs, church groups and organizations throughout Marshall County to provide a program on The REES. Please call 574286-2391 or email: reestheatre@gmail.com to schedule a presentation.