New Ulm Volunteers Clean Historic Theater for Community

When you ask volunteers to spend their Saturday cleaning theater seats and sorting batteries, you might expect a few grudging helpers. Instead, the State Street Theater in New Ulm, Minnesota drew people of all ages who showed up laughing, chatting, and genuinely enjoying themselves.

The theater's "Spruce Up Saturday" brought together everyone from high school sophomores to retired teachers. They tackled cleaning balcony seats, organizing stage equipment, and preparing the historic venue for upcoming shows.

"We couldn't do what we do without volunteers," said Executive Director Lorie Jewell. "Everything we do requires volunteers."

The event showed how much this theater means to the community. Richard Gurska, a bus driver who moved to New Ulm from Milwaukee, spent his morning removing batteries from candles while catching up with friends.

"Of all the places I've lived, New Ulm is my favorite," he said. "I love State Street Theater, the City of New Ulm and this part of Minnesota."

Kent Menzel, a retired chemistry teacher, performed in shows at this very theater years ago. Now he helps maintain it so others can create their own stage memories. He even got to perform alongside all his kids over the years.

High schoolers Sofie Hanson and Carmen Schotzko tackled the balcony seats together. Both are active in theater and wanted to support the space that's given them so much.

"Cleaning doesn't seem like it would be fun but it can be," said Schotzko. "It's a really good time here with my friends."

Sunny's Take

There's something beautiful about a place that brings together bus drivers and chemistry teachers, teenagers and retirees, all working toward the same goal. This isn't just about keeping a theater clean. It's about people investing their Saturday mornings into something bigger than themselves.

The State Street Theater needs volunteers for everything from ushering to concessions to technical work. The organization rewards its helpers with breakfast before work sessions, lunch after, and an appreciation dinner each January.

The theater, housed in a former school auditorium, continues hosting performances thanks to these community members who show up with cleaning supplies and smiles. Their next event is a tribute to The Cars on January 24th.

One volunteer's morning might not change the world, but it keeps the curtains rising in New Ulm.