By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
The Fayette Opera House is seeking new board members as two longtime leaders prepare to step down at the end of May.
After more than a decade of service, Steve and Tina Snider will be retiring from the Opera House board. Steve has served for 14 years and has overseen maintenance responsibilities including the building’s fire suppression system, lighting, and general repairs.
Tina has served for 12 years and has supported event operations and overall board efforts during her tenure.
Board members at the opera house take on a wide range of responsibilities. Duties include scheduling and working events, maintaining the building, operating lights and sound, keeping the facility clean, attending board meetings, and assisting with refreshments during meet and greet gatherings.
As a nonprofit organization, the opera house also depends on board members to help solicit donations for ongoing upkeep, as ticket sales and regular contributions typically cover only basic operating expenses.
Under the current board’s leadership, annual programming expanded from approximately five events per year to as many as 27 before scaling back slightly as members have stepped down.
Recruiting new volunteers has proven challenging, particularly among younger residents with full schedules. Outreach efforts have included contacting local organizations to explore partnerships that could help sustain operations and keep the arts active in the community.
Tina explained that serving on the board is both rewarding and essential to preserving the historic venue. However, without additional volunteers stepping forward, there is concern the opera house could face closure.
Those interested in joining the board or learning more can contact the Fayette Opera House at (419) 237-3111, email operahousefayette@gmail.com, or visit the building at 105 East Main Street in Fayette.
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