VALENTINE, Neb. - Valentine residents could be seeing a movie on the big screen in their hometown next year. As News Channel Nebraska previously reported, the nonprofit Heart City Theater Corporation was formed to reopen a theater at the former Fresh Fire Ministries location on Main Street, which was also once the home of the Jewel Theater.

This weekend, the project received a boost with a $50,000 grant from the Sandhills Area Foundation. News Channel Nebraska caught up with the corporation’s president to find out what’s next for the project.

“It’s very exciting to bring a new venue of entertainment to Main Street and to our community,” said President Danielle Arganbright.

According to Arganbright, around $100,000 has been raised so far. She hopes the theater will be ready to show movies within 12 to 18 months.

“We’re also hoping to be able to have some live performances, whether it’s a small band or plays,” said Arganbright.

The team is currently working on the theater’s design plans. “We want to be able to show investors what our plans are. By the start of the year, we hope to begin renovations and demolition,” said Arganbright.

Community members can support the project with donations through the Sandhills Area Foundation, designated for the Heart City Theater Corporation. Donors will be recognized inside the new theater.

For more information or to contribute, you can also reach out to a theater group member, including President Danielle Arganbright, Treasurer Jana Bitner, and Secretary Jaime Eggert. Other members are Shelly Henderson, Chris Bitner, Jerilyn Colburn, and Nadeane Allard.