Moorefield, WV — McCoy’s Grand Theatre is proud to announce the successful completion of its LIGHT THE LIGHTS! Capital Campaign, exceeding its fundraising goal and ushering in a new era for Hardy County’s performing arts center. Launched in November 2024, the campaign set an ambitious goal of $250,000.00 to fund critical upgrades to the theatre’s lighting and sound systems. Thanks to overwhelming community support, McCoy’s Grand surpassed that goal, raising $251,755.00 in record time.
“This achievement is something truly worth celebrating,” said John Brennskag, President of McCoy’s Grand. “We’re thrilled to have completed this special project so quickly, and we are deeply grateful to every donor, partner, and supporter who made it possible. This has been an exciting year of growth and transition for McCoy’s Grand, and we’re looking ahead with great enthusiasm toward 2026 and beyond.”
Eric Schaeffer, Campaign Director, echoed the excitement. “It’s been incredibly rewarding to be part of this effort. Raising this level of support in such a short period of time speaks volumes about how much this theatre means to our community. With these upgrades in place, McCoy’s Grand is well-positioned as we prepare to celebrate our 100th Anniversary in 2027.”
State-of-the-Art Upgrades Transform the Theatre Experience
The LIGHT THE LIGHTS! Campaign replaced all existing theatrical lighting with state-of-the-art LED lighting and installed a new digital sound system, dramatically enhancing both performance quality and audience experience.
The project included:
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New electrical infrastructure and rigging to support expanded LED theatrical lighting
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New dimmers and lighting positions on stage and throughout the auditorium
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A new lighting control board and sound console
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A new stage backdrop to enhance concerts and theatrical productions
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Assisted-hearing devices and dressing room monitors as part of the sound system upgrade
“These improvements elevate the experience for our audiences while also expanding creative possibilities for performers, designers, and visiting artists,” said Brennskag.
Gratitude to Our Funders and Supporters
This project was made possible through the generosity of individual donors, businesses, and public partners, including financial assistance from the West Virginia Department of Tourism, with approval from the West Virginia Commission on the Arts, and support from the West Virginia Department of Energy.
Major supporters include: Burke & Herbert Bank; Hardy County Commission; Town of Moorefield; PCB Bank; Capon Valley Bank; Mark Stickley Family (in memory of Betty Stickley); John Brennskag; Hawse Health; Maxine Issacs; Patrick Hurston & Eric Schaeffer; Darryl Buning; Danyl Freeman; Ann Funkhouser; Susan Garrett; Thad Garrett; Hannah Heishman; Bill Holt; Sarah Imboden; Jessica Rizer; Will Runion; Emily Sherman; Bob Thompson; Micheline Williams; and The Leona Reynolds Memorial Fund – Andrew & Rosemary Anderson; Rita Armstrong; Atlantic Builders, Ltd.; Sheila & Roger Champ; Ivan & Janie Cowger; Edward & Lisa Kesecker; Suzann & Charles Maddy; John & Teresa Marshall; Amy & David Pancake; Glenda Bishoff Shears; Darwin & Kathryn Simmons; Gregory & Charlene Zirk.
McCoy’s Grand extends heartfelt thanks to every contributor who helped make this transformative project a reality.
About McCoy’s Grand
McCoy’s Grand is a non-profit performing arts center serving Hardy County and the surrounding region. The historic venue includes the McCoy–McMechen Museum, the Eunice D. McCoy Lounge, and the new Courtyard Plaza and Gardens, scheduled for completion in Spring 2026. Each year, McCoy’s Grand produces theatrical productions, hosts the Spring Concert Series, presents FiddleFest during Hardy County Heritage Weekend, partners with Missoula Children’s Theatre for an annual youth production, and offers community favorites such as the Veterans Concert and Fall Fest Open House. The organization also awards an annual scholarship to a graduating Hardy County senior and provides ongoing community outreach opportunities. McCoy’s Grand will proudly celebrate its 100th Anniversary in 2027, continuing its mission to inspire, educate, and entertain for generations to come. For additional information, visit our website at mccoysgrand.org.
McCoy’s Grand Theatre
121 North Main Street
Moorefield, West Virginia
mccoysgrand.org
