By Patrick Hurston
Less than a year after launching a major capital campaign, McCoy’s Grand has raised $210,000—the largest fundraising total in the nearly 100-year history of Hardy County’s only performing arts venue. The money will fund a new lighting and sound system, transforming the historic theater into a modern entertainment hub.
“It’s truly incredible,” said John Brennskag, president of the board. “The outpouring of support from local businesses, state grants, and generous individuals is going to preserve this space and create a first-rate venue.”
The campaign was launched with a $50,000 gift from Burke & Herbert Bank and followed by contributions from Capon Valley Bank ($10,000), PCB ($15,000), the Hardy County Commission ($25,000), the Town of Moorefield ($15,000), and Hawse Health ($1,000). Board members Mark Stickley and Eric Schaeffer also contributed personally. Schaeffer, who led the fundraising effort, secured two major state grants: $25,000 from the WV Dept. of Energy and $65,000 from the WV Dept. of Tourism with approval of the WV Commission on the Arts.
“Arts grants were an untapped resource for us,” Schaeffer said. “The process is competitive and time-consuming, but the payoff is worth it.”
Brennskag agreed. “Grant writing is a specialized skill we didn’t have until this year. Eric really hit it out of the park, and audiences are going to see—and hear—the difference.”
That difference includes an energy-efficient LED lighting system that uses 75 percent less power and lasts 25 times longer than the current setup, cutting operating costs significantly. New computer-controlled rigging and lighting will allow for advanced effects, while the sound system upgrade includes digital mixing via iPad and new speakers positioned to give every seat the same audio quality. Wentzel Electric and Pittsburgh Stage have already begun the installation.
The upgrades are expected to help attract top talent and broaden the kinds of professional performances the theater can host.
Meanwhile, McCoy’s Grand is gearing up for a packed fall season. On Fri., Sept. 26, it will host “Fiddlefest,” the Hardy County Fiddle and Banjo competition, during Heritage Weekend. Tickets are $10 and available online or at the door.
On Sat., Oct. 25, the theater will hold its first-ever “Fallfest Open House” from noon to 6 p.m., featuring free performances; live music from 12 bands; cabarets; food trucks; craft and vendor tents; raffles; a cornhole tournament; and Broadway-themed bingo, among other family-friendly activities.
More details are available at www.mccoysgrand.org.
