By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
After nearly 16 years of ashes and ambition, the former Wilson Czech Opera House is finally set to reopen in August under the stars.
Allison Ford, treasurer of the Wilson Czech Opera House, said the restoration is nearly complete following a 2009 fire that devastated most of the historic structure, 415 27th St.
"The Opera House was built to celebrate the Czech Bohemian culture, and we restored it for celebration," she said.
Ford said the building will open on Aug. 30. Final touches are in progress, including the installation of the stage, sidewalks, electricity and engraved bricks purchased by supporters, which will be installed at the entrance.
Events like musical and theater performances are expected to be held at the opera house. Kenny Benebba, president of the Wilson Czech Opera House, said Jimmy Dee and The Fabulous Destinations will kick off the new chapter for Wilson.
The rock-'n'-roll band is scheduled to perform from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., with brats and sauerkraut meals being served at 5 p.m., and drinks offered by the neighboring American Legion, where Benebba is also involved.
"If somebody wants to rent a venue, they can rent the opera house and the legion for an indoor and outdoor event," he said.
Constructed in 1901, the opera house was initially called Turner Hall, made from quarried stone from five miles outside of Wilson.
Equipped with a dining hall, kitchen, gymnasium, stage floor and balcony, the opera house hosted a variety of events, such as dances, gymnastics, weddings and pageants.
The 2009 fire from a neighboring building spread to the opera house, reducing the venue to ruins despite efforts to extinguish the flames.
You can learn more about its history and early restoration efforts here.
Ford said the remaining limestone walls have been restored and reinforced with steel bracing, the basement has been filled and the performance stage, donated by MaiCo Industries of Ellsworth, is under construction.
"We're very close. We have the final steps to go," she said.
The opera house received support through grants from organizations such as the Kansas Department of Commerce, Dane G. Hansen Foundation and Smoky Hills Community Foundation.
Although the project is almost complete, Ford said ongoing donations are needed to help maintain the open-air venue. You can make donations here.
"We hope to see people in there celebrating anniversaries, weddings, family reunions, dancing and watching theater. We just want it to be a place of celebration again," Ford said.
The World's Largest Hand-painted Czech Egg, standing at 20 feet high and 15 feet wide, is to the east of the former Opera House.
You can also follow the opera house on Facebook.