Messer Construction Co. Foundation awards $25,000 grant to South Carolina Children’s Theatre for new sound system
August 7, 2024
The Messer Construction Co. Foundation announced a generous grant of $25,000 to South Carolina Children’s Theatre (SCCT). This grant will be used to complete the installation of a new sound system in the Younts Stage, a critical component in the theatre’s ongoing capital improvements.
The Younts Stage, a 120-seat black box theatre, remained unfinished when SCCT’s new building opened in 2020. Through dedicated efforts and strategic enhancements, SCCT has transformed this space into a versatile and welcoming environment for patrons of all ages. The new sound system will allow SCCT to finalize its accessibility initiative, enabling the creation of a sensory-friendly viewing area for all shows in the Younts Stage and the 299-seat Bell Stage.
In addition to a new sound system, this initiative includes the installation of live feed cameras, allowing audiences who need to leave the theatre due to sensory sensitivities to continue enjoying the performance from a specially designed viewing area.
Matt Irwin, SCCT’s incoming Board Chair and Business Development leader for Messer Construction Co.’s Greenville office, emphasized the importance of this project: “This grant is a testament to Messer’s commitment to enhancing the Upstate. We believe in the transformative power of the arts and are thrilled to help SCCT create an inclusive and engaging environment for all patrons.”
Erin Thompson, Vice President and Greenville Region Leader for Messer, echoed these sentiments: “Supporting SCCT aligns perfectly with Messer’s values. We believe in giving back to the communities in which we live and work. We are honored to contribute to this initiative that enriches the cultural landscape of the Upstate.”
Matt Giles, SCCT’s Artistic Director, expressed gratitude for the grant: “The new sound system is a game-changer for us. It allows us to offer a more inclusive experience and ensures that all our patrons, regardless of their sensory needs, can fully enjoy our performances. We are deeply grateful to the Messer Construction Co. Foundation for their support.”
Katie O’Kelly, SCCT’s Managing Director, highlighted the impact on the community: “This grant will help us make significant strides in our accessibility efforts. The ability to provide a sensory-friendly viewing area is a crucial step in making our theatre a welcoming space for everyone in our community.”
For more information about the South Carolina Children’s Theatre and its accessibility initiatives, please visit scchildrenstheatre.org.
About South Carolina Children’s Theatre
South Carolina Children’s Theatre (SCCT) inspires and empowers a new generation of changemakers through theatre. Led by Artistic Director Matt Giles and Managing Director Katie O’Kelly, SCCT is the largest theatre for multigenerational audiences in the state, serving over 30,000 individuals annually through productions, education programs, and community engagement initiatives – leading the region in creating transformative theatre experiences for young people and their families.
About Messer Construction Co.
Messer Construction Co., founded in 1932, is a construction manager and general contractor that provides leadership for complex commercial construction projects in diverse market segments. An employee-owned company, Messer’s transformational investment in its people, communities and innovative building solutions has enhanced the landscape of regions it serves throughout the Southeast and Midwest. In January 2023, the company opened its 11th regional office in Greenville, where it continues to invest in the Upstate community and lead safe, high-quality construction projects.
About the Messer Construction Co. Foundation
The Messer Construction Co. Foundation awards up to four $25,000 grants per year and supports organizations that advance society’s interests in economic inclusion, education, workforce development or environmental stewardship. The Foundation has awarded more than $1.5 million in grants since 2005.
