Since August 2024, the Brown Grand Opera House, Inc. has been seeking support from the residents, visitors and foundations who surround the historic theatre for its $402,000 “Giving Voice to the Past, Illuminating the Future” capital campaign to replace the antiquated lighting and sound systems. Some might say the investment itself is just as grand as the Brown Grand, but that amount begins to shrink in size when taking a look at how just one historic theatre impacts North Central Kansas tourism.
Throughout last year, from a list of seven large events, the Brown Grand averaged about 200 tickets sold per event. The theatre saw audience members from dozens of cities and several states - covering coast to coast. In addition, the Brown Grand gives historic tours to over 200 groups and individuals each year, including the entire third grade class from USD 333, who get to play the “whisper challenge” to experience the fantastic acoustics of the theatre.
“The Brown Grand Theatre is one of Concordia’s major attractions,” said Cloud County Tourism Director Susie Haver. “The draw that it has, across the state, out of state and touring acts; when people attend events there, they’re stunned.”
Not only do the Brown Grand attendees visit the historic theatre, but they often visit more of Concordia, including its restaurants, shops and other attractions like the Sisters of St. Joseph Motherhouse and POW Camp. Each year, the Brown Grand alone is making a nearly $400,000 economic impact in Concordia and Cloud County.
Throughout their 2024-2025 season, the Brown Grand saw more than 8,000 attendees in total. According to Brown Grand Executive Director Melissa Swenson, the theatre is expecting to clear 10,000 patrons this year as they continue to grow their audience and increase the number of events.
“Having a beautiful place like the Brown Grand is just so special,” said Kansas State Sen. Elaine Bowers. “I’ve always loved its atmosphere; when I got to speak on the stage for its 100th anniversary, I said, ‘Close your eyes and imagine what it was like on opening night,’ and, today, you still get to feel that magic in every event.”
To help continue this impact for North Central Kansas, keep the love alive at the Brown Grand by helping them close the gap to reach the $402,000 goal for “Giving Voice to the Past, Illuminating the Future” this year. Thanks to many grants and donations, they are now 75% to their goal. A gift in any amount will help bring this project to fruition. To make a tax-deductible donation to support this timely lighting and sound project, mail a gift to The Brown Grand Opera House, P.O. Box 347, Concordia, KS 66901. Checks made payable to the Brown Grand, or give securely online at www.browngrand.org/donate-now. For more information, reach out to Brown Grand Executive Director Melissa Swenson at 785-243-2553.
