Sauk Prairie River Arts Center Awarded Grant from the State of Wisconsin

Prairie du Sac – The State of Wisconsin approved a $116,000 grant for the Sauk Prairie School District’s River Arts Center as part of the Non-State Grant Program that supports local infrastructure improvement and community development projects in communities across the state. Safety improvements and aesthetic updates are included in the planned modernization of the Center’s auditorium.

The Non-State Grant Program was re-established as part of the 2025-27 biennial budget with a $50 million allocation of state funding to support economic and community development, bolster Wisconsin’s infrastructure, and improve the overall quality of life in the state. The Department of Administration received over 250 applications statewide and approved 71 projects for funding.

In a press release, Governor Evers commented, “Whether it’s expanding libraries, upgrading essential services facilities, or revitalizing museums and cultural institutions for Wisconsinites and visitors alike to enjoy, these
non-state grants will help support the success and overall well-being of kids, families, and communities all across the state.”

The River Arts Center modernization will include replacing the orchestra pit cover that is no longer considered safe, updating lighting and HVAC, and replacing original flooring and stage curtains. Wisconsin State Senator Sarah Keyeski shared the following about the grant: “I am thrilled that the Sauk Prairie School District has been awarded a Non-State Grant of $116,000 to update the Sauk Prairie River Arts Center.

While the River Arts Center is a part of the Sauk Prairie School District and is a useful space for students to embrace their creativity, it is also utilized by so many groups throughout our region. Its importance both to the school district and local economy cannot be overstated. The awarded grant funds will allow for modernization that will expand the capacity of what the River Arts Center can offer the community and surrounding areas.”

The River Arts Center is part of the Sauk Prairie School District and is attached to Sauk Prairie High School. It opened in 2000 as a fine arts center serving the greater Sauk Prairie community. The original building features
a 492 seat proscenium theater and an art gallery. In September of 2023 the Leola Hall addition opened, a medium sized performance and event space featuring flexible setup options and event seating up to 240.

Modernization work will begin in the summer of 2026 and continue between performances scheduled in the facility.

“After 25 years of busy use, many maintenance items are due, and this grant will help us ensure that the space remains safe, modern, and welcoming for many years to come,” shared Managing Director Nick Dingman.

“The River Arts Center is an incredibly busy facility, with our Theater being the cornerstone of events from school functions to the largest community events in Sauk Prairie. From dance recitals and competitions, theatrical performances, concerts, banquets, meetings, and lectures, the River Arts Center brings thousands of people to the Sauk Prairie area each year, helping to generate nearly a million dollars in estimated economic spending.”

PHOTO INCLUDED BELOW:
● The exterior of the River Arts Center



CONTACT:
● Nick Dingman, Managing Director – nick.dingman@saukprairieschools.org - office: 608-643-5636
● Jeff Wright, Superintendent – jeff.wright@saukprairieschools.org – office: 608-643-5980