When the audience members settle into their seats at Richmond Civic Theatre, magic happens on the stage. But a lot of work, technology and teamwork happens behind the curtain to make that magic possible.

A 2025 Community Engagement for the Arts Grant helped Richmond Civic Theatre modernize some of that behind-the-scenes infrastructure, giving performers, volunteers and production teams new tools to create, communicate and bring performances to life. And the impact of that investment has reached far beyond the equipment itself.

“This project has not only modernized critical production infrastructure but has also strengthened our ability to provide high-quality theatrical experiences for our community for many years to come,” noted Ryan Shaw, Managing Director of Richmond Civic Theatre.

Grant funding helped replace an aging sound and video computer system that had become a frequent source of frustration and production interruptions. The new hardware and software now give the theater capabilities comparable to those found in many regional and professional theaters. Throughout the season, every production benefited from the upgraded system, including improved video control and programming effects – and there were no production interruptions caused by computer or software failures.

The theater also completed a major upgrade to its backstage video monitoring and communication system. More than 1,500 feet of new cabling was installed between two buildings to make the new HD system possible. The result is clearer, more reliable backstage monitoring, along with new video feeds in the lobby and concession areas so patrons can continue watching a performance if they step out of the auditorium. Additional monitors in rehearsal and dressing-room spaces have made it easier for performers, volunteers and production teams to stay connected during larger productions.

The project also expanded the theater’s wireless microphone capabilities, giving productions more flexibility and reliability. Larger shows can now accommodate more performers simultaneously, while smaller productions have additional backup equipment av

ailable when needed. Microphone elements in a wider range of skin tones also help the theatre better meet the needs of its diverse performers.

And then, thanks to an unexpected gift, the grant’s impact grew even further. After an individual donor committed approximately $13,000 toward the theatre’s planned LED lighting upgrades, Richmond Civic Theatre was able to redirect that portion of the grant toward another important need: replacing its aging stage curtains.

The project offered even provided more volunteer opportunities. Seven dedicated volunteers contributed countless hours to installing the upgrades and mentoring five student and three adult volunteers in using the new equipment. Their efforts are helping build the theatre’s technical expertise and volunteer capacity for future productions.

 

The grant also inspired others to step forward. A local audiovisual vendor provided equipment at dealer cost and donated much of the installation labor, an estimated $9,000 contribution. One longtime volunteer and sound engineer donated a newer digital sound console valued at approximately $10,500 after seeing the theater’s commitment to modernizing its sound system.

Altogether, when the grant is combined with additional gifts, donated professional services, volunteer hours and staff expertise, the value of the improvements made through this project exceeded $75,000.

That’s the ripple effect of an investment in the arts. A grant helped replace aging equipment, but it also sparked additional generosity, created learning opportunities for volunteers, improved the experience for audiences, and gave Richmond Civic Theatre new tools to tell amazing stories.

 

THIS CEFTA FUNDED PROJECT RESULTED IN*:

• Significantly improved reliability across our sound, video, and communications systems.
• Expanded production capabilities, allowing directors and designers to incorporate projection, video, and sound elements that were previously not technically feasible.
• Improved communication and coordination for production teams, volunteers, and performers.
• Enhanced patron experience through the addition of live video feeds in public spaces.
• Consistently positive feedback from production staff, volunteers, performers, and audiences regarding the quality and professionalism of the upgraded systems.

*Provided by Richmond Civic Theatre in its grant report