Levitt at the Falls reaches fundraising goal for venue, program expansion
May 16, 2025
Thanks to a $1 million gift from philanthropist Denny Sanford, Levitt at the Falls has reached its fundraising goal to expand its venue and programs.
The donation helped complete the total $5.8 million campaign and will allow Leivtt at the Falls to add about 6,000 square feet of interior space, breaking ground this September.
The expansion includes the T. Denny Sanford Hospitality Center, featuring three artist dressing rooms with restrooms, an expanded green room with a kitchen, ground-level storage and a media studio for video production.
“T. Denny Sanford’s remarkable generosity has propelled our vision for the expanded Levitt Shell into reality,” said Nancy Halverson, president and CEO of Levitt at the Falls.
“His commitment to our community is deeply appreciated, and this gift will allow us to significantly enhance the experience for artists and audiences alike.”
Other key contributions to the project include a $2.25 million seed gift from Dick and Kathy Sweetman, which will name the Sweetman Atrium on the west side of the venue.
Inside the Sweetman Atrium, the 4,000-square-foot Dakota State University Community Room will host indoor music performances, community events, donor celebrations and summer youth camps in partnership with DSU. A gift from John and Jeanelle Lust will provide a second, smaller outdoor stage, providing greater flexibility with the addition. The Atrium will house six new staff offices, a production area and programming equipment storage.
“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support from our community,” Halverson added. “These enhancements will enable Levitt at the Falls to expand our capacity to serve our community and continue to grow as a vibrant cultural hub.”
The proposed gift is pending approval by the Sioux Falls Parks Board and the Sioux Falls City Council for the associated naming rights. The completed facility is expected to be operational by fall 2026. In the meantime, the Levitt season starts May 23 with 50 free concerts this summer.
