“It’s a beautiful theater and it’s a great opportunity,” he said.
According to media reports in Kansas, Miller was selected from a field of 50 applicants for the job during a nationwide search. A Chicago native, the move is a homecoming of sorts for Miller as his first job out of college was in Hutchinson as a producer at KHCC Radio Kansas.
Miller said he and his wife were part of a core group of “crazies who came in with a vision that got it right” that included Jeff Johnson, Julia Brodsky, Ken Bowman and Walt McRee in April 2012. They were joined by Bob Melloh a few months later. He said there were other people such as Jay and Linda Moorman, Mike Robinette and Sam Ashworth who gave them guidance about renovating the 128-year-old building and about the city and its history.
“It was so hard when I turned off the lights last week,” Miller said.
Miller said the opening show was a big accomplishment because it built a sense of loyalty and people saw their vision for the theater.
“It still has a long way to go,” Miller said. “I’m confident the building is in good hands and we have an engaged board who understands the vision. We regret leaving without seeing it completed.”
He said it was “time for new leadership and hopes to be engaged from a distance.”
“We’re not walking away for this. No way,” Miller said. “The two of us lived this project for seven years. It’s a part of our lives.”
Miller’s tenure was highlighted by several significant accomplishments that include:
- Acquiring non-profit status
- Securing an in-kind donation of 985 seats from Cincinnati Music Hall
- Removal of the drop ceiling, exposing the 2nd balcony in theater, reopening of the theater, funding through the State of Ohio Capital Improvement Grant for HVAC
- New electrical and HVAC building improvements.
Miller said he has been pleased with the revitalization efforts in downtown Middletown and believes the Sorg building has added value to the downtown district and the region.
“We made a lot of great friends in Middletown and remain humbled by the generosity of those who donated time, goods, talents, funds and to those who enjoyed the shows,” Miller said. “The show must go on and it will at the Sorg.”
“I didn’t see this coming,” said board member Chris Riva said. “It was a bit of a surprise to me… We celebrate their new opportunity and we’ll miss them.”
Riva, who praised their dedication, passion and motivation, said Miller has played a critical role in the development and the success of the opera house and said the organization will miss him and his leadership.
“We want to thank Chuck for his seven years of dedicated service, which involves many significant accomplishments including renovating and reopening Middletown’s historic theater,” Riva said.
“The Sorg Opera House would not be where it is today without Chuck and Denise’s commitment and passion. We celebrate their efforts and vow to carry on the mission of fully restoring this wonderful theater.”
Riva said the SORG Board will search over the next few months to find a new board president and secretary. He said during this transition, the board’s priority will be to find the best individual to lead, while still maintaining a stable and effective organization.
About the Author
