The final large project of the Pella Opera House’s Silver Celebration campaign is now underway.

Scaffolding is in place in the front of the Opera House and work is being done to repair and replace broken bricks and mortar on the exterior of the building.

“We’re expecting this project to take around four weeks,” said Cyndi Atkins, executive director of the Pella Opera House. “The work on the front section should be completed by June 1. We are very appreciative of the gifts and pledges made to support the projects of the Silver Celebration. From the HVAC upgrades, stage technical improvements and the renovation of the Great Hall, this campaign has made a significant difference in our ability to provide a great venue for shows and rentals.”

TnT Tuckpointing and Building Restoration of Stockton, Iowa, is the contractor for the work and specializes in restoration of brick in historic buildings. The Pella Opera House was completed in 1900 by Herman Rietveld and architect, Stanley De Groyer. Rietveld’s own Pella Drain and Tile Company originally manufactured the bricks. For this project, very similar bricks are being used to replace broken ones.

The Opera House will remain open throughout this project. Doors can be accessed from below the scaffolding.