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Rochester, MN (KROC AM News) -  A downtown Rochester landmark is the latest to temporarily close due to COVID-19 restrictions.

The operator of the city-owned Chateau Cultural Center says it has decided to “Pause for the Cause” indefinitely.

The former Chateau Theater site was open to the public for just over four months when the state’s pandemic shutdown order was issued.

Exhibits Development Group of St Paul signed a 5-year contract with the city to operate the historic building last year. It opened to the public last November for the first time since 2014 after the city spent more than $1-million on renovations. The Chateau re-opened to the public in June but was restricted to 25-percent capacity, which wasn’t enough to pay the bills.

According to Exhibits Development Group CEO Amy Noble Seitz:

“As with many museums, cultural centers, restaurants-bars, retail and
consumer facing businesses, 25% capacity is simply not sustainable. While we wait for the world to recover and the State lifts the 25% capacity, our members & visitors return to gathering indoors again and visitors return to the heart of the city, Chateau is going to “Pause for the Cause.”

Amy Noble Seitz makes announcement of first Chateau Theatre exhibit/Kim David, Townsquare Media
Amy Noble Seitz makes announcement of first Chateau Theatre exhibit/Kim David, Townsquare Media
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Seitz says “the pause” will allow her staff to:

  • Work with the City and stakeholders to continue improving the facilities.
  • As Peace Plaza and Heart of City project is completed and the health safety capacity due to COVID-19 increasesto program concerts, community events, theatre events and welcome the nearly 400 persons per day back to the Chateau to celebrate arts+culture+community, we will once again celebrate together.
  • Continue to work with Chateau Committee and Members on future programming, marketing-communications, and facility improvements.

Seitz says the Chateau will be available for rentals and private tours.

 

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