Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre (ESRT), in partnership with the City of Daphne, has announced the launch of a major revitalization project for the Nicholson Center for the Arts, a multi-phase initiative aimed at transforming the historic facility into a fully equipped home for the performing arts on the Eastern Shore.
The project is designed to support students, artists and audiences across Baldwin County and beyond, with new spaces planned for private lessons, rehearsals and professional-grade performances. City and theater leaders say the effort is a key step toward establishing Daphne as a true arts destination on the Eastern Shore.
More Than $175,000 Raised So Far
The project has been launched through a combination of public and private support, with more than $175,000 secured to date in grants, donations and in-kind contributions. ESRT has received a $49,900 grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts, a $50,000 grant from the Cox Family Foundation, a $25,000 grant from the Daniel Foundation and a $10,000 gift from United Bank. Additional in-kind contributions and partnerships from the City of Daphne, Crucible Construction, Swift Supply and 68 Ventures are also supporting the project.
Organizers describe the funding raised so far as “just the beginning of what’s to come.” Planned upgrades in this first phase include ADA-compliant walkways and parking, electrical improvements aimed at improving safety and expanding production capabilities, and new brick signage intended to increase the center’s visibility in the community. Renovations tied to this phase are expected to be completed by the end of summer.
A Cornerstone for the Arts in Daphne
“Our goal is to establish the Nicholson Center as a cornerstone of the arts in Daphne,” said Erin Langley, founder, executive director and artistic director of ESRT. “This project is about more than just renovations. It is about creating a space where students can discover their voices, where artists can do meaningful work and where the community can come together through the power of live performance. By investing in accessibility, education and artistic excellence, we are not just improving a building. We are creating a legacy that will serve the Eastern Shore for generations to come.”
ESRT says it plans to continue fundraising in the coming months to support additional upgrades and long-term programming, with the goal of fully realizing the Nicholson Center’s potential as a regional arts hub.
Next Phase Focuses on Technical Capabilities
The next steps in the revitalization will focus on enhancing the center’s technical capabilities to support professional-grade performances and expanded educational programming. Planned improvements include a new lighting truss and grid, a state-of-the-art lighting board and energy-efficient LED stage lighting. Organizers say those upgrades will not only elevate the quality of productions staged at the center but will also give students hands-on training with industry-standard equipment, potentially opening doors to future careers in technical theatre.
About Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre
Founded by Erin Langley in 2012, Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre has grown into one of the region’s most established youth arts organizations, known for its focus on education, artistic excellence and community impact. ESRT produces performances throughout the year, including the annual Theatre on the Bluff outdoor event held at Henry George Park in Fairhope, which draws thousands of attendees, along with large-scale musicals, educational field trip performances and seasonal productions featuring students of all ages. Since its founding, the organization has performed for more than 100,000 audience members and has provided students with opportunities to perform in Central Park, attend the Junior Theater Festival and train with Broadway professionals in hands-on workshops.
In addition to its performances, ESRT offers a full range of educational programming for students of all ages, including introductory programs for elementary students, summer camps, and more advanced musical theatre and dance training for older students. The organization also works to keep its programs accessible through the ESRT Auxiliary, which raises approximately $10,000 each year in scholarships to help students participate in classes, camps and productions. As the Nicholson Center revitalization continues, ESRT says it remains focused on creating inclusive, transformative experiences for both students and audiences across the Eastern Shore.