The Hillside Theater at Taliesin North, in Wisconsin, has finally reopened after five years of restoration, carried out by a team that followed the same collaborative spirit promoted by Frank Lloyd Wright in his open-air workshop estates. Built in 1932 as a multipurpose room, the Hillside Theater has evolved into a beloved theater where Wright used to organize movie screenings for 50 cents, including a coffee by the fireplace. The restoration focused on eliminating water infiltration, rehabilitating the basement, and addressing all elements needing maintenance, such as the concrete flooring and the beautiful handmade curtain. The original stage flooring has also been reinstalled.

The restoration aimed to preserve the architectural features and legacy of Taliesin’s craftsmen, embodying the culture of experimentation that Wright always encouraged. Historic elements like the masonry foyer and basement stone pillars, showcasing the efforts and attempts of stonework by apprentices, have been preserved. Beyond structural consolidation, the restoration sought to enhance the visitor experience through improved climate control and attention to accessibility. Additionally, the theater is now equipped to host virtual performances. This restoration could pave the way for new renovation projects on larger estate structures, emphasizing the importance of daily care and preservation to address potential issues promptly.

Outside the entrance, Wright’s boot and cane imprints in the mortar stand as a paternal reminder. He was unafraid of mistakes or change, as they more than anything else embody life, which is probably why he became a great master. “We’re interested in filling these spaces with life, as opposed to imagining them. To really experience them is to be in them,” stated Hewson, Director of Preservation at Taliesin, Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation