– The Rhode Center for the Arts in downtown Kenosha, Wisconsin, is once again navigating the aftermath of a water main break, though thankfully, the damage appears less severe than a previous incident that significantly impacted the building’s infrastructure. The latest rupture, discovered on , flooded the basement of the historic venue, home to the Lakeside Players theatre group.
While a previous water main break caused extensive damage to the building’s boiler and electrical systems, this recent event spared those critical components. According to reports, the furnace and electrical systems had been elevated, preventing submersion. However, the flooding did cause damage to props and resulted in the failure of a sump pump, necessitating the expertise of a specialized plumber.
The Lakeside Players, a cornerstone of Kenosha’s arts community, were the first to discover the issue. Lakeside Players President Katie Gray explained to WGTD’s Morning Show on that board members noticed the problem during a meeting held at the Rhode Center. “You could actually hear water pouring in,” Gray said, describing the initial discovery.
The Kenosha Water Utility swiftly responded to the situation, shutting off the water supply at the street-side valve. The depth of the water in the basement varied, ranging from a few inches to as much as three feet in some areas. The majority of the water has since been drained and efforts are now focused on cleanup, and restoration.
The Rhode Center for the Arts, a century-old building, plays a vital role in the cultural landscape of Kenosha. It’s a multi-use facility, but the Lakeside Players are its primary tenant. The group’s continued presence is crucial, not only for the performances they stage but also for the community engagement they foster. The Lakeside Players offer family memberships, providing benefits such as complimentary admission tickets and participation in the organization’s governance.
Despite the disruption, the Lakeside Players are determined to keep the show going. Their latest production, “The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee,” is scheduled to premiere on , and, remarkably, the premiere will proceed as planned. This demonstrates the resilience and dedication of the theatre company and its supporters.
The recovery effort is relying heavily on volunteer support. A workday is scheduled for to assist with the removal of damaged furniture and props. In addition to volunteer labor, monetary donations are also being accepted to help cover the costs of repairs and replacement of damaged equipment. The Lakeside Players and the Rhode Center are actively seeking assistance from the community to expedite the restoration process.
This isn’t the first time the Rhode Center has faced challenges related to its aging infrastructure. The previous, more significant water main break highlighted the ongoing need for investment in the building’s maintenance and upkeep. While the current situation is less catastrophic, it serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in older structures and the importance of proactive preventative measures.
The incident also underscores the vital role community theatres like the Lakeside Players play in providing accessible arts and entertainment. Their ability to overcome obstacles, such as this recent flood, and maintain their performance schedule speaks to their commitment to their audience and their art form. The fact that “The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee” will open on schedule is a testament to the dedication of the cast, crew, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to ensure the show goes on.
As the Rhode Center for the Arts begins the process of recovery, the Kenosha community is rallying to support the Lakeside Players and ensure the continued vibrancy of this important cultural institution. Details on how to volunteer or donate can be found through the Lakeside Players’ and Visit Kenosha’s social media channels, demonstrating the power of community collaboration in the face of adversity.
