The Sorg Opera House, which opened on September 12, 1891, is one of the oldest surviving performing arts theatres in the state and the country.

The building has withstood some wear and tear since then, and is in need of some major repairs before its planned opening in the spring.

The Sorg Opera Revitalization Group, who purchased the building in August from Florida-based bank Bayview Loan Servicing LLC for $32,000, is planning to repair and winterize the building.

One of the partners of the group, Walt McRee said that roof and window repairs are the group’s main priority before the building can be opened; gaps and openings must be secured and locks need to be changed.

Another group partner Ken Bowman said it would cost between $30,000 and $40,000 just to stop leaks for the winter; however, the needed roof replacement would be substantially more.

The Sorg Opera Revitalization Group have their 501c3 in place, which designates the operation as a non-profit organization, and they already have a few donors ready to aid with the repairs.

The group is planning to participate in the 2012 Candlelight Tour of Homes of the South Main Historic District on December 2. The group is testing lighting inside and out for this event.

McRee believes the group can “bring some life” back to the building, and the community will embrace the Opera House and it can be a great part of downtown Middletown again.

Donations are now being accepted by the Middletown Community Foundation for the funding to financially support the rebirth of the Sorg Opera House. For more details call the Middletown Community Foundation at (513) 424-7369 or visit www.mcfoundation.org.

Sources: Middletown Journal, Cinema Treasures