Dover’s Strand Theatre, Operating Since 1919, Asking For Help

Many believe municipalities aren't made solely from the borders identified by land surveyors, but rather that it's the people that make the city; that the residents build up the community, not just the borders or businesses. And many consider their community to be next-level when an iconic part of it is threatened with the reality of closing up shop, only to be met by residents banding together in an attempt to put a stop to it.

That's what's happening right now with The Strand Theatre in Dover. According to a GoFundMe page titled "Save The Strand 2020", the iconic Strand Theatre on Third Street in Dover is at risk of having to close down. The Strand has been a staple of Dover for more than 100 years, from vaudeville performances in the early days, to showing the latest '007' movies throughout the years and presently offering family-friendly events and offering private rentals.

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Regardless of the state of the world right now caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, The Strand is still offering various performing arts and entertainment, through both in-person and video stream. But, like many non-profits, the struggle from a year of below-normal attendance is taking its toll, and the possibility that doors may have to close permanently is setting in.

The Strand isn't going out without a fight, though, as noted by the GoFundMe page. On top of that, with certain donation increments come certain perks for being a solid human being. For donations of $50 or more, two tickets will be provided for an upcoming performance at The Strand that will remain valid through December 2021.

For those that step up huge and donate $100 or more, well, resident artist from The Art Center on Washington Street in Dover, Deborah J. Janelle, will provide a signed and numbered fine art print of The Strand. They are pretty breathtaking.

As of this writing, $2,575 of The Strand's $100,000 goal has been raised. If you'd like to help save a piece of Dover Cultural History, you can find more information below. The Strand is holding a telethon fundraiser this weekend that begins Friday at 6 p.m.