The beloved bandshell in Victory Park is getting a much-needed facelift and upgrades. Due to the Christie and Tony de Nicola Family Gift to the Albion Community Foundation, the William and Karen Dobbins Family Foundation, and Caster Cares, the Victory Park bandshell is becoming more of a venue then just a structure, impacting everyone who uses the community space.
Built in 1941, the bandshell is an unofficial historic landmark. It is home to the annual Swingin’ at the Shell summer concert series, local church services and events, and is a largely recognized community space. As an iconic part of our community, it is important to continue its upkeep. Caroline Hurteau, Board Member for Swingin’ at the Shell, emphasized that “if we don’t maintain and fix little things now, it will continue to decline.”
However, more than just the little things are getting fixed as this is an approximately $110,000 renovation including work on upgrading the electrical systems and repair the roof. What will be most apparent about this project will be the care taken to power wash and repair the entire structure, along with a fresh coat of paint. Channeling 1941, the bandshell is going to be all white with the iconic gold sculptures. This how the structure was painted when it was initially built.
Not just the structure itself is gaining improvements. In efforts to make the location an accessible venue, there is going to be concrete paths throughout the lawn for easier access to seating closer to the bandshell. There will also be paths leading to the restrooms to make them wheelchair, walker, and stroller accessible.
It is not scheduled this year to renovate the restrooms, although they are recognized as a problem. Hurteau explained that it costs a significant amount of money to complete the restrooms, and there is a known history of vandalism happening quickly after improvements. So, until actions are taken and proven to successfully prevent vandalism, the restrooms will not be improved. Porta potties will be available during the 2023 Swingin’ at the Shell events.
Since 2004, the bandshell has hosted the free summer concert series, Swingin’ at the Shell. Hurteau stated that each concert can have an audience from about 500 to 700 people, people ranging from senior citizens to families with young children. This year there are eight concerts planned in the series, so this renovation is going to impact a large amount of people.
The project is projected to be completed by mid-July for the first Swingin’ at the Shell concert on Sunday, July 23rd at 6PM with Phillip Michael Scales kicking off the summer series.
