Memorial gifts kick off fundraiser honoring longtime volunteer Larry Diemer
Galesburg, IL — Prairie Players Civic Theatre has launched a fundraising campaign to replace its aging, heavy plywood risers with a new, lightweight modular riser system. The upgrade will improve flexibility for performances and events, make setup easier for volunteers, and expand rental opportunities for other community groups.
The campaign honors the memory of longtime Prairie Players volunteer Larry Diemer, a beloved actor, director, builder, and mentor who helped shape both the physical theatre and the generations of artists who’ve performed within it. Memorial gifts made in Larry’s name have already contributed more than a third of the total cost of the new risers.
“Larry believed in giving people a place to belong—and that’s what Prairie Players has always been,” said Judy Diemer, Larry’s wife. “These new risers would have made him smile, not just for the convenience—he was known to grumble a bit every time they had to be taken up or down—but for the opportunities they create.”
This year marks Prairie Players’ 110th anniversary and the 10th year in its current building at 160 South Seminary Street in Galesburg. The need for updated risers has become increasingly urgent, as the existing platforms are heavy, difficult to move, and time-consuming for volunteers to set up and take down for events.
“With new risers, our volunteers can safely and quickly transform the space to suit all kinds of events,” said Angel Peterson, Prairie Players Civic Theatre President. “It’s a meaningful investment in the future of the theatre and in the people who make the performing arts in our region possible.”
Donations to the riser campaign can be made online at www.prairieplayers.com/risers or by mail to Prairie Players Civic Theatre, PO Box 831, Galesburg, IL 61401.
***Courtesy of the Prairie Players Civic Theatre***
