June 1, 2026 – Cedar Rapids, Iowa — Theatre Cedar Rapids (TCR) announces the public launch of the next phase of its transformative Dream Here, Do Here capital campaign, with a goal of raising the final $1.8 million toward the organization’s $9.5 million campaign by December 31, 2026. The initiative builds on the organization’s rich 100‑year legacy and supports major upgrades to its historic downtown facility.

The campaign has already secured more than $7.7 million during a successful quiet phase including significant cornerstone gifts from significant conerstone gifts from the Hall-Perrine Foundation, the City of Cedar Rapids, the Linge Foundation, and the DeWolf Family Foundation, whose visionary support will be recognized through naming of the renovated auditorium.

TCR now enters a community-wide public effort to complete the final fundraising push. Funds raised will support renovations throughout the 50,000-square-foot Iowa Theatre Building, unlocking underutilized areas, enhancing accessibility, expanding educational spaces, and enriching the experience for audiences, artists, students, and the broader community. 

A key component of the project is the replacement of the building’s current elevator with a larger, modern accessible elevator system that improves access to learning, rehearsal, office, and backstage spaces. The upgrade will eliminate the need for individuals to exit and reenter the building to navigate between areas, creating a more welcoming and inclusive experience for artists, students, volunteers, and patrons alike.

“Every day, people walk through our doors seeking connection in some form—whether it's learning, volunteering, creating, or sharing an experience with a few hundred neighbors,” said Executive and Artistic Director Angie Toomsen. “This campaign is about making sure Theatre Cedar Rapids continues to be that place for future generations. From a more accessible building to upgraded spaces for artists, students, volunteers, and audiences, these improvements will strengthen the experiences that happen here every day. The support we've already received tells us this community believes in the power of the arts to bring people together and contribute to a vibrant, thriving Cedar Rapids. We invite everyone to be part of securing this community asset for the future."

Since its founding in 1925 as part of the Little Theatre Movement, TCR has grown into Iowa’s largest nonprofit producing theatre company and one of the largest community-based theatres in the nation, serving more than 50,000 patrons, volunteers and students annually and engaging audiences from more than 70 communities across the region.

“When you invest in this project you're investing in something much bigger than a building,” said Board Vice President Murphy McGrath. "Theatre Cedar Rapids brings people downtown, supports local businesses, creates opportunities for young people, and connects our community through shared experiences. A strong arts community is part of what makes Cedar Rapids a place where people want to live, work, raise families, and build their future. The response to this campaign so far has been remarkable, and it speaks to how much this organization means to our community. We're excited to build on that momentum as we invite the community to help complete this historic campaign."

The public phase of Dream Here, Do Here will spotlight community engagement opportunities, donor spotlights, special events, and multi‑channel outreach. 

Theatre Cedar Rapids invites community members, businesses, and arts supporters to join in this historic effort by making tax‑deductible gifts online at www.tcrnext100.org (tap the DONATE button and designate the Dream Here, Do Here Capital Campaign from the list of options) or by mail to 102 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, 52401.