Walmart donates $50,000 to Dunbar Theatre Restoration Project

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - Walmart presented those working to restore the Dunbar Theatre with a $50,000 check on Wednesday. It comes on the same day as a groundbreaking for a new community center.

The Power CDC is currently working with architect Tony Rangel of LK Architecture to redevelop the Dunbar Theatre into a community-based visual and performing arts center, which will provide surrounding neighborhoods with a facility to host meetings, receptions, youth activities and civic events.

The donation will be used for community center operations, along with equipment and furnishings including computers, desks, tables, chairs, podium, video projector and a portable screen.

State and local elected officials, including Governor Laura Kelly, Mayor Brandon Whipple, Vice Mayor Brandon Johnson, and Senator Oletha Faust Goudeau were all present for the check presentation and groundbreaking.

Located in the historic McAdams neighborhood, the Dunbar Theatre was built in 1941 and served as the only movie theater available to the African American community in Wichita until 1963. A recent revival of interest in the redevelopment of the area has brought new hope and the revitalization of the Dunbar Theatre is a key component in the process of bringing new life into the renowned neighborhood.

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