Jessica Lange
Connector Contributor

“There’s something special about this venue.”

The Worcester Palladium staff prides themselves on two things: the history of the theatre and the fans that keep it running. Opening its doors in 1928, the Palladium has been tour stops for music festivals to comedians. Over 80 years old, the staff here knows how special this historic venue is to the city of Worcester and to the patrons. Thus, at the start of 2014, the Palladium management team announced one of their biggest projects to date called the “Palladium Restoration Project.”

“We’re always going after the new, we’re always evolving,” said Production Manager Jose M. Chavez Jr. “the restoration is helping the venue and its future to grow with the industry.”

The restoration project was officially announced in January of 2014 with lofty goals of keeping the historic charm while bringing in the technology of the 21st century. Architecture such as the marquee and upper level seating will all be repaired. Technology including sound production and lighting will be repaired and updated. In true restoration style, the goal of the Palladium staff isn’t to make a new building, but to advance the one they already have.

Scott Baldwin Lee, production manager for the Palladium, has always known that the people who come here are keys to making this company and venue stay current. When asked about what the restoration meant to him he said that “there’s nothing else like it (the Palladium) around here, the history is incredible.”

Wanting to bring bigger and bolder elements to the Palladium, Jill Miller, marketing director for the Palladium, is taking the lead in the restoration project. Miller has been an asset to the Palladium team since arriving in October of 2012. “Some challenges we face are toe-ing the line between what the building is and the 2014 technological advances…the people who come here consider this their second home.”

Staying true to their words, the Palladium staff has incorporated the patrons into raising funds for the restoration. With an initial goal of $25,000 the Palladium ultimately hopes that their bigger picture of reaching $1M will also be reached using promotions. A major fundraising campaign was launched through the crowdfunding website indiegogo. This gives the opportunity for donators to win prizes from the venue. Depending on the amount you donate prizes can include a limited edition Palladium restoration t-shirt, a chance to sign the stage and jump the line passes.

Along with indiegogo, other fundraising initiatives include a donation box at shows to boost crowd involvement and also via Paypal. Area businesses are getting involved as well, and there are current talks about speaking with the city to get historical building grants. All money raised goes directly to the restoration of the Palladium.

“It’s a fabulous thing to see people (patrons and entertainers) grow here and with the improvement of the building makes the customers happy,” said Assistant Manager Joy Rusakovich.

Gina Migliozzi, co-owner of the Palladium also added “the whole (music) industry has changed so quickly…the restoration will bring us up to speed…we’re still independent; that mom and pop establishment.”