FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                 April 29, 2025

 

STRAND THEATRE SUSPENDS OPERATIONS DUE TO CONDEMNATION OF ADJOINING STRUCTURE 

 

The Strand Theatre has made the decision to cease all operations effective immediately.   This comes due to events beyond the Strand’s control.  

The Strand was built in 1916 incorporating an existing building built in 1895.  Since that time the Strand has operated safely and provided entertainment to our community.    The Strand Theatre of Shelbyville, Inc was formed as a not-for-profit corporation to transform the Strand into a performing arts center.

The all volunteer group acquired, renovated, and operates the Strand.   Since the re-opening in January 2008 the Strand has presented 1786 events with a total audience of 160,288.   Patrons from near and far have experienced incredible performances on the Strand’s stage.

The City of Shelbyville determined the old livery stable at 15 W Broadway Street was unsafe and needed to be demolished.  This is the same building structurally as the back portion of the Strand.   During the bid process the contractors were allowed to tour the Strand’s upper floors adjoining the partner wall that separated the two legal properties.    

 

In order to be good stewards, the Strand’s leadership informed our carrier Cincinnati Insurance the adjoining building had been deemed unsafe.   The Strand wanted clarification that our policy was in full force.   Today we were informed by Hatoway Insurance Partners of Shelbyville that Cincinnati Insurance will issue a cancellation notice for the Strand’s policy.  The stated reason is “because the building has been condemned.”   They made this determination without consultation of the Strand, City Engineer, or City Attorney.  

 

As of now, the Strand is unable to operate because of uncertainty of insurance coverage.  Effective immediately all upcoming performances and events are cancelled.

 

We are working to secure new insurance.  

 

Refunds will be issued for all ticket holders for performances through June 1, 2025.   If the issue is not resolved by June, then refunds for upcoming performances will be issued at that time. 

 

This is stressful for the all volunteer Strand leadership. The Strand is an innocent bystander in issues facing structures on our block.    

 

The Strand Theatre is funded 100% by ticket and event revenue.  The Strand does not have the resources to survive this closure and will need outside funding to continue.   This is the first time the Strand will be reliant on others for financial help since our founding in 2006 and including the period of the pandemic.   

 

On behalf for the Board of Directors and Volunteers of the Strand we thank our community and performers for their ongoing support

 

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