Fillmor update & vol-call
Work continues on downtown Wausau’s upcoming music venue, the Fillmor, and anticipation is apt to build steadily as its opening draws near. When I’ve strolled by, I’ve been serenaded by jackhammers and witnessed a flurry of activity, from marquee climbers to sledge-swinging builders and clouds of dust issuing from inside the front doors.
The actual opening date remains a question, says co-owner Dan Miller. “Two years ago, we didn’t think it would take this long, but we’re getting a lot closer, and we’re excited about it.” Miller and his brother Bill have been looking at this January for the Fillmor’s debut, but they can’t be sure that all work will be done in time.
“The marquee is being refurbished and prepared for the name change (from the original Rogers Cinema) and it will include LED lighting,” says Miller. “We’re set to have our new facade done soon. And inside, we’re framing in walls and are about to pour cement to level a floor.”
Stacy Ness of Mudrovich Architects, one of the project’s service contractors, says work progresses steadily. “We’re removing a drop ceiling to expose the steel girders and some interesting wooden beams. It will really open up the space and give it a sort of industrial look.”
Buzz about the venue is filtering into the entertainment network, says Miller. “Promoters have been calling to look into booking dates, but we’re not ready to confirm anything until we have a better idea of when things will be finished.” The brothers intend to feature both local and touring acts, and will attempt to present a variety of musical styles.
When asked what he might wish for right now to help move things along, Miller says, “It would be great if people would drop by on weekends to help us with clean-up. My brother and I have day jobs and we’re here on Friday nights and Saturdays and Sundays clearing the mess and carrying debris out to the dumpster, and it can be a long walk back and forth. We can use a dumpster brigade.”
I expect I’ll be dropping by with cruddy clothes and work gloves to do just that.
Dino Corvino said:
I think the possibilties both for the good and the bad are amazing.
December 3rd, 2007 at 9:41 pm #