ELKHORN CITY, Ky. (LEX 18) — Following a devastating fire that destroyed a community theatre in Pike County, the community is rallying around the organization in hopes that they can rise from the ashes.
Patrons and participants stood in shock Saturday night in Elkhorn City as fire ravaged the Artists Collaborative Theatre in Elkhorn City. Stunned actors and fans of the theatre troupe could be seen watching with tears streaming down their faces in disbelief.
For four hours, firefighters worked to contain the blaze, which resparked again Sunday morning. The walls of the building collapsed. All that was left, was one singed certificate that firefighters gave back to owner Stephanie Richards.
“I mean, it was a total loss [Saturday] night. But at that point, you thought you could have gotten in and seen a piece of paper or, you know, picked up a script or something,” said Richards. “There's nothing left.”
Although several fundraisers have been started online, those who want to help are encouraged to donate directly to the troupe's Facebook page.
"We'll update more later but for now we are beyond thankful every person is safe and we are so moved by the outpouring of love we've felt from across the region. This is not the end, but a new beginning," reads a post to the page.
So far, the page has raised about $2,155. Donations can also be mailed to ACT, Inc. PO BOX 964 Elkhorn City, Ky. 41522
The group plans to rebuild and the burned certificate will hang on the new walls of the new building. The cause of the fire has not yet been released.
