For immediate release: Tuesday,, March 31, 2026

This year's Ellendale Opera House fund drive – "Stepping Up" – includes two new dollar-for-dollar match opportunities for contributors.

• All new donors – people who haven't contributed during the past five years – will have their contributions matched dollar-for-dollar by anonymous supporters.

• And, contributions from individuals who donated to the non-profit organization last year, and who donate more this year, will have the increased amount matched dollar-for-dollar. For example, if a donor contributed $300 last year and donates $400 this year, the opera house would receive an additional $100 match amount. 

If you haven't contributed in the past to O.P.E.R.A. (the non-profit organization that owns and operates the opera house), now is a great time to join the effort to restore the historic landmark and return it to full community use.

Last year's match program resulted in an additional $30,000 for O.P.E.R.A. This year anonymous supporters are pledging up to a maximum of $40,000 for the two match programs.

Recently, O.P.E.R.A. began renovation of the Annex and former Coleman store spaces as well as restoration of the storefront façades on Main Street. The project is expected to be completed this summer at a cost of more than $400,000.

This year's "Stepping Up" campaign seeks to raise $130,000. As in the past, donors can direct their support for special naming/sponsorship opportunities, such as the restored Annex, upstairs auditorium, stage rehabilitation or Main Street window restoration.

All donors 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 & Gallery.

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

Other fund drive options/incentives include: “Acres for O.P.E.R.A." that makes it possible for farm operators to donate a portion of their crop to qualify for tax credits; a custom opera house coffee mug for contributions of more than $300; and the gifting of appreciated stock (securities) to qualify for charitable tax deductions.

To contribute, mail your donation to O.P.E.R.A. at P.O. Box 334, Ellendale, ND 58436, or donate online by clicking on the "Donate" button in top menu bar.

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.