The theater benefited from a terrific 2006. Its fundraising efforts resulted in a grant of $200,000 from the Lakeport Redevelopment Agency, a $30,000 grant from the County of Lake, and they will soon receive funds from the Wine Alliance gala held in October. Several fun and profitable special events included Memory Days at the theater lobby, when former movie-goers reminisced about their good times at the theater, champagne receptions showcasing the group's renovation plans, and of course, the elegant and inspiring Concert Under the Stars, held at Ceago Vinegarden.

The outdoor dinner, with five pianists performing their music on the baby grand piano, moon rising over the tiled rooftops, candles flickering, wine flowing and clair de lune saturating the evening sky, will present a challenge to outdo.

A series of performances, “Concerts with Conversations,” takes place this winter and spring at the Tallman Hotel in Upper Lake. Owners Lynne and Bernie Butcher will donate 10 percent of the proceeds from the concerts to the theater. On Saturday, March 3, there will be dancing to the music of Bill Noteman and the Rockets in Finley to benefit the theater project. More publicity will be forthcoming.

“Concert Under the Stars” will again take place at Ceago Vinegarden on Sept. 8. The committee also is applying for a grant from the Kresge Foundation, with able assistance from Karen MacDougall. Most exciting, they hope to begin Phase 1 renovation in April 2007.

With the continued support of the community, the committee anticipates opening the theater for limited use in late fall. Yes, they'll be fundraising ‘til the cows come home, but they're’re seeing the light at the end of the proverbial tunnel. Happy New Year!