Have a Say In the Ioka's Future Tonight

What do you want to see in the new Ioka?

Ideas collected so far include screening independent films there, hosting comedy acts, installing a bar for cocktails, and putting on student plays.

You can voice your own opinion during a series of open forums hosted by the Exeter Theater Company, the group working with a Kensington philanthropist to revive the historic theater.

The following session will be held:

• Tue. Feb. 21, 6:30 p.m. – Kensington Elementary School, 22 Amesbury Rd., Kensington
• Tue. Feb. 21, 6:30 p.m. Newfields Elementary School , 9 Piscassic Rd., Newfields
• Tue., March 6, 5 p.m. – Water Street Bookstore, 125 Water St., Exeter (special session for teenagers only)
• Wed., March 7, 6:30 p.m. – Mary E. Bartlett Library, 22 Dalton Rd., Brentwood
• Thur., March 8, 6:30 p.m. – Stratham Public Library, 10 Bunker Hill Rd.
• Thur., March 15, 6:30 p.m. – Crackskulls Coffee & Books, 86 Main St., Newmarket

The theater company is trying to get 1,000 donors to prove there's wide support for the project. When that goal is met, the philanthropist is prepared to lease the theater to the company for $1 a year for 99 years.

Click here to see Exeter Patch's special section devoted to the Ioka revival effort.