We Can Do This

It’s back.  The marquee of Exeter’s most famous building has returned with something to say.  Simply, “We can do this.” 

“This” is referring to giving the Ioka Theater another chance.  That’s what the Exeter Theater Company is trying to do.  The Ioka has been a vital part of Downtown Exeter since 1915.  It has provided the town with a means for escape and enjoyment through the best and worst of times.  Countless tales can be told about times at the Ioka - the movies you saw and who you saw them with.  Memories of nostalgia, of simpler times and of cinematic pleasure come to mind as tales are retold in happy recollections.

That’s where the Exeter Theater Company comes in.  After a tough few years of declining activity, the Ioka Theater was sold through foreclosure auction on January 17th to Kensington Exeter, LLC, a company belonging to Alan Lewis, of Kensington, NH.  The non-profit Exeter Theater Company, established in 2009 as a 501-c-3 non-profit “to preserve and operate the historic Ioka Theater as a vital center for arts and culture,” has been challenged by Lewis to recruit 1,000 “Premiere Members” by March 31.  When that goal is met, the Exeter Theater Company will lease the theater from Lewis under extremely favorable terms, such as a $1/yr lease for 99 years.  The Exeter Theater Company will be responsible for operating the theater as a non-profit, community-run and community-supported organization, and work with the community to raise the funds necessary to restore, reopen and successfully operate the Ioka.

But what we now need is support. 

Undaunted by the challenge, the 75 volunteer strong community group has launched an ambitious membership drive.  “What better way to support the community and bring arts back to the Ioka than supporting our cause as a member,” stated Gemma Waite French, board member and chair of the Membership/Marketing team.   If you join now, and we reach our goal, you will be enrolled in a drawing to win two free tickets to EVERY show the Ioka produces its first year.  That’s independent film, live music, comedy, dance, theater, and more!” 

In addition, any business that can deliver 50 members will get their name on the marquee for a week.  “It’s a way to show support, boost the local economy, and get your name in lights” Carol Walker Aten explained. 

We need our friends in the community to stand up and say that you believe in the Ioka.  You believe that Exeter needs the Ioka in our community.  We need folks to say we need to see the bright lights of the Ioka’s landmark marquee as they travel through the Exeter downtown.  We need parents to know that they have a place where their children can go to see a movie or take in a cultural event.  We need our community to make a stand for The Ioka.

The Exeter Theater Company also wants to assure its new members that if, for some reason it does not reopen the theater, all of membership money will be returned. “Premiere Members” start at $50 to adopt a letter, to $2,500 – the “Marquee” level. To support this historic endeavor, join as a member, become a volunteer, and receive the e-news sign up at www.exetertheater.org or contact
info@exetertheater.org.  Contributions and memberships can also be sent to Exeter Theater Company, PO Box 275, Exeter, NH 03833.

Our ideas and our goals are lofty, but together, as a community, as the marquee says, we can do this.