Built in 1869, Angelo Guiffre and his wife Ylsa Maj purchased the theater back in late 2011. Since their acquisition, they have made some repairs to the other roofs in the past seven years, but financial help was needed to address one of the main roofs, as it has severe leakage issues. They turned to the community for help to “Raise the Roof.”

“So far so good” Guiffre, Director of Programming, said of this fund-raising effort. As of today, they have raised about $6,000 towards the goal of $62,000 to repair this particular roof. If they are not able to repair it before this winter, it will be covered with “12, 50-foot by 30-foot tarps,” Guiffre added.

Unfortunately, this will not be the last repairs needed for the theater. “We have several roofs. The high peak under the steeple needs to be replaced. Eventually the other roofs will need replaced as well, and we plan on hosting this festival until we are able to replace all of the roofs,” Guiffre stated.

Once the roofs are completely fixed, Guiffre plans to keep this festival going for years to come under the same name, “Raise the Roof.” The name will be to raise funds for new signs, new sound systems, etc. This will be one of the many new arts and music festivals locals can come to expect in the Jamestown area, and serve as a venue for local artists to perform or display their art.

This year more than 20 different bands, performance groups, and solo artists volunteered their talents to help with the fund-raising effort.

These bands were spread over 4 different “stages”, all contained within the Spire Theater: The Main Stage, Odyssey Hall Stage, Studio Metro Underground Stage, and the Courtyard. Art vendors were also present, displaying an array of locally made artwork.

One particular gentleman was noticeably enthusiastic about the performances held here, putting on a dazzling display of nimble acrobatics and artistry, swinging around illuminating instruments of light and color around in dizzying fashion. The musicians didn’t seem to mind, many smiled at his efforts.

In the theater’s description section on Facebook, it was described as how it serves as a “hub for music, theater, entertainment, and community.” The energy and diversity of talent as well as outpour of support represented at this festival clearly represented that mission.

Along with the performers, food and beverages were provided in-house, and a number of people were taking advantage of that luxury at this venue. Food was also provided by the Olive Garden in the form of a pasta dinner fundraiser for an additional cost.

Lastly, apparel was created in support of the theater, aptly designed with “InSpire”. The “In” was subtly included behind “Spire” on the T-shirts. A number of workers and performers could be seen wearing these shirts during the festival.

Donations can be made through its Facebook page “The Spire Theater”, or at its website “inspirejamestown.com”.