Saving the History Ramon Theatre is the Goal of Community Fundraising Effort

Frostproof's landmark, and perhaps haunted, Ramon Theatre is in serious trouble, and the volunteers who manage the venerable auditorium are turning to the community for help, pinning high hopes upon the success of a January 18 "Barn Bash."

The Ramon is the cultural and entertainment soul of the southeast Polk Community. Built in 1925 at the height of the Great Florida Land Boom, the theatre hosts musical and theatrical performances around the year.

Courtesy City of Frostproof

The historic Ramon Theatre is in desperate shape and needs to raise the funds to pay for roof repairs, and the replacement of technical equipment.

The double-blows of Hurricane Helene and Milton over the summer and autumn months proved too much for the roof, which was torn away over the stage to leave the theatre open to the sky. Efforts are being made online to collect donations to help save the theatre

The damages "amount to $10,000 so far," according to Emily Bennett, executive director of the Frostproof Area Chamber of Commerce. "Of all places for the roof to go, it had to happen right over the stage," Bennett observed sadly. The resulting water intrusion caused serious damage to the interior, including the stage curtains and the electronics that control the lights and sound systems in the popular venue.

The destruction led to the cancellation of the entire fall performance series, greatly reducing the theatre's income just as it was most needed. The non-profit operation is led by an eight-member board that manages the theatre, which is owned by the Frostproof Chamber.

According to the theatre's website, the Ramon Theater was built in 1925 by Vera and Frank Thompson and named after the couple's second son, Ramon, who was born that year.

Courtesy Ramon Theatre

In this view looking directly upward, the sky is visible through the badly-damaged roof over the stage of the Ramon Theatre in Frostproof. A January 18 fundraiser may help provide the resources to save the historic structure. The burgundy curtains visible at the right were also damaged in the rains that followed the roof damage.

Bennett said that the theatre had been insured under a policy that had automatically renewed for years. A close reading of the policy revealed that it had specific exclusions for wind and hail damage, leaving them with no coverage.

In response, the theatre board and chamber has organized a "Raise the Roof" fund-raising drive. The January 18 party is headlined "Boots and Bling" and will be held in the Elliot Barn at 6410 Garfield Road in Fort Meade and will feature live music by Shannon Reed and Friends.

The fundraising party will include dinner, dancing, a cash bar, raffles and a silent auction. One lucky attendee will win a $5,000 "Grand Prize." The $50 tickets are available through the Frostproof Chamber of Commerce or by calling 863-635-7222.

Bennett has high praise for Supreme Roofing Service, which has offered to repair the roof for $7,000. She told LakeWalesNews.net that one other quote they received for the work was $46,5000. "That's not in my budget," she said, raising her eyebrows in disbelief.

Bennett and others refer to the theatre as "she," a habit she attributes to its reputation as the permanent home of Vera Thompson, who some claim they have seen moving about the property. "Her spirit lives on," Bennett said, adding that "one band member is never coming back because he was wondering who the lady was that was watching them from the sound booth all night."