Renovation of the Bonnie Kate Theater could soon receive some help thanks to an idea created by one local organization.
The Elizabethton City Council will look at OK’ing a recommendation for the inaugural “BBQ, Blues & Brews Festival,” which would take place on Saturday, Sept. 23, between 4-8 p.m. at Covered Bridge Park pending final approval.
The Elizabethton/Carter County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the East Tennessee Foundation, is a 501(c)3 organization that is spearheading the effort to formulate the event as a fundraiser for the Bonnie Kate.
In the letter written by Amos Brown to City Manager Jerome Kitchens, the fundraiser would offer a variety of activities for the public, including:
• A 5K run in downtown Elizabethton
• A one-mile fun run/walk
• BBQ tasting competition featuring BBQ from five to 10 different restaurants
• Beer service, featuring local breweries
• Live music at the park
The letter indicated that the organization will secure special event insurance for the event. Following approval from City Council, race routes, which span through downtown, would have to be approved by the Elizabethton Police Department. A final approval is also needed by the City’s Beverage Board to serve alcohol.
Bonnie Kate has experienced a significant amount of foot traffic over the months thanks to a resurgence of activity inside the facility. Sugar Love Bakery & Cafe continues to operate out of the building and the building’s main hall was the home of numerous sold out shows organized by Marcia Ross, Bonnie Kate’s program coordinator.
Each of the productions were used as a fundraiser to also go toward the Bonnie Kate Restoration Project. Along with stage lights, Ross added that the other goals in the Bonnie Kate included cosmetics in the performing hall and the hopes of moving the stage back to allow more seating for special performances.
The ECCCF has worked alongside the city and the Bonnie Kate Board to raise funds for improvements at the theater.
Individuals wanting to make contributions can visit bonniekatetheater.com or mail items by making them payable to: Elizabethton – Carter County Community Foundation, P.O. Box 695, Elizabethton, TN 37644-0695. For more information and updates on the progress of the Bonnie Kate restoration, visit their website or check out The Bonnie Kate Theater Restoration Project Facebook page.