For nearly 150 years, generations of Wisconsinites have rallied to ensure The Grand thrived amidst a changing world.
Now, it's our turn.
Join us as we boldly transform this historic gem into a block-wide hub for performances and events – the spark that will ignite downtown Oshkosh's next renaissance.
THE TIME IS NOW.
This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity–not just to transform The Grand, but to shape Oshkosh's future as a vibrant place to live, work, raise a family, and gather in one of the oldest and most beautifully preserved theatres within more than 1,000 miles.
Without a $10 million philanthropic investment, we risk falling behind our regional peers–and missing out on millions in economic activity for local businesses.
Without this investment, we'll be forced to spend more on maintaining aging infrastructure instead of investing in innovation.
Most importantly, without this investment, we fall short of our promise to serve the entire community–as patrons with mobility challenges continue to find The Grand too difficult to access.
Recognizing this need, the City of Oshkosh, owner of The Grand, has committed a $5 million lead gift for the project, matched dollar for dollar. The Grand Oshkosh is now committed to raising the remaining $5 million.
Will you help us to meet this moment?
Preserving the authentic history of Oshkosh's crown jewel
Because of The Grand's historical significance, every aspect of this work is being closely guided by our partners at the Wisconsin State Historical Society and the League of Historic American Theatres.
The transformation ahead will be ambitious—but never careless. Every material, every surface, every detail, is being selected with care and precision to hono The Grand's original character.
From historically inspired wallpaper and a restored exterior façade to the discreet integration of modern sound and HVAC systems, this renovation will preserve the feeling we all cherish: the sense of being transported through time—now with the comfort, access, and quality today's audiences deserve.
For Our Patrons
A wholly new experience from curb to curtain
While rigorously adhering to historic architectural principles, the spaces beyond the theatre itself will undergo a major transformation: a new entrance, new box office, expanded Grand Lounge and bar, new restrooms, new, larger theatre seats, a vastly improved experience for those with mobility challenges, and dozens of "behind-the-scenes" upgrades—HVAC, energy-efficient windows and doors, and more.
For Our Artists
Many artists return again and again to The Grand for its superb acoustics, intimate connection with audiences, and legendary status as one of the Midwest's oldest historic theaters.
However, that charm fades quickly in the offstage areas where "historic" changes to a less charming of contexts.
This renovation will create a dramatically improved backstage experience, including doubled dressing room capacity and amenities, a new green room, additional restrooms, easier stage and crossover access, and more.
For Oshkosh
This isn't just a remodel—it's a transformation: from historic theatre into a civic hub, capable of supporting both indoor and outdoor entertainment, events, and festivals, all directly adjacent to Opera House Square.
We aren't making these improvements only to enhance the experience for patrons attending ticketed shows—though that, too, will be transformational. More fundamentally, we are growing to ensure The Grand becomes a true civic treasure: of, by, and for all of us.
- Cabaret-style music, storytelling, art exhibitions, author events, and more in the Lounge
- Corporate meetings, retreats, and community gatherings
- A home base for outdoor festivals and other activities on Opera House Square and on Market, High, or Brown Streets
The Grand is the literal and figurative center in the latest Oshkosh downtown redevelopment plan. We already play a leading role in enhancing pedestrian traffic and promoting economic activity.
Once renovations are complete, per an Americans for the Arts estimate, Grand patrons will generate over $3.5 million in annual economic spinoff during visits to the theatre, at area restaurants, hotels, and other businesses (up from approximately $1.8 million at present).
Please contact The Grand Oshkosh's Director of Development, Karl Buelow, with questions.
(920) 810-1793
