EXETER - Exeter Fine Crafts is pleased to promote the Ioka’s Theater’s restoration project, the Ioka Century Campaign. Seeking to renovate and re-open the historic movie house, the Exeter Theater Company, a non-profit group, hopes to transform the dormant landmark into a thriving center for arts and culture. Built in 1915, the Ioka underwent its first and last major restoration in 1936.
Starting in the sixties, various owners and differing public trends led to the Ioka’s slow decline. In the nineties, attempts to revitalize the theater fell through and the Ioka remained in a state of flux. After the theater occupancy permit was revoked in 2008, the Exeter Theater Company was formed and attempted to purchase the aging theater with no success. In December 2011, the property went into foreclosure and the Ioka was auctioned.
In 2012, the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance named the Ioka one of its “Seven to Save.”
As a sister non-profit arts organization, Exeter Fine Crafts recognizes the importance of a flourishing art community in Exeter. Echoing our spirit of innovation and creative thinking, the Exeter Theater Company hopes to raise enough money by March 31st to fully restore the Ioka and establish a wide range of theater and community art programs.
The public is invited to come on Fri., March 1, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., to celebrate the Ioka and its place in the community. Dine on a selection of hors d’oeuvres while listening to members of the Exeter Theater Company discuss their exciting plans for the Ioka’s future.
A percentage of the evening’s sales will go towards the Ioka Century Campaign.
Exeter Fine Crafts is located at 61 Water Street, in downtown Exeter. Call (603) 778-8282 for more information.
