For immediate release: Tuesday, July 23, 2025

O.P.E.R.A., Inc. has raised $49,000 to date during its 2025 "Gaining Momentum" Fund Drive to underwrite restoration work at the Ellendale Opera House.

O.P.E.R.A. – the non-profit organization that owns and operates the opera house – has begun restoration of the Annex storefront next to the renovated Lobby & Gallery, and has hired a structural engineering firm to determine repairs necessary to return the 700-seat second floor auditorium to community use.

As an incentive during this year's fund drive, all contributions (up to $30,000) will be matched dollar-for-dollar by anonymous O.P.E.R.A. supporters. Donations must be made by the end of August to qualify for the special match.

With the matching dollars, the fund drive total is at nearly 40 percent of the $125,000 campaign goal.

Donors can direct their support for special naming/sponsorship opportunities, such as the restored Annex, upstairs auditorium, stage rehabilitation or Main Street window restoration.

Donors at all sponsorship levels will be recognized by having their names – or the name of

someone they wish to honor or memorialize – listed on a permanent plaque mounted in

the opera house lobby.

For naming/sponsorship opportunities, contact Justin at 701-535-0347.

Other fund drive options/incentives include:

• “Acres for O.P.E.R.A." to enable farm owners to donate a portion of their crop to the non-profit organization and qualify for tax credits.

• Contributors of more than $300 between now and December 31 will receive a newly designed O.P.E.R.A. coffee mug.

You can mail your contribution to O.P.E.R.A. at P.O. Box 334, Ellendale, ND 58436, or donate online at: www.ellendaleoperahouse.com.

O.P.E.R.A. – Organization of People in Ellendale for Restoration of the Arts – was formed in 1992 to save the Main Street landmark from the wrecking ball. Because O.P.E.R.A. is a charitable non-profit organization, all donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Visit our Facebook page for restoration photos on additional building updates: 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/122667311149139/

The Ellendale Opera House and its services are available to all persons without discrimination as to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or physical or mental disability. O.P.E.R.A., Inc. is an equal opportunity provider.