State Theatre hires general manager
Dec. 11, 2019
The State Theatre has hired a general manager to help prepare for its expected opening next year.
Steven Dahlmeier, former program director for Downtown Sioux Falls Inc., began working with State Theatre executive director Allison Weiland this week.
“This is a big position because we’re starting a new business. To have someone with Steven’s resume and his experience with business, nonprofits, the downtown community, even planning and film, is ideal. He checks all the boxes,” Weiland said. “It’s another huge step towards the opening of the State Theatre.”
The theater originally opened in 1926 on Phillips Avenue but has been closed since 1990 except for a few special events. The Sioux Falls State Theatre Co. bought it in 2005 and has upgraded the infrastructure, facade, lobby and other areas. Now, the first floor is undergoing extensive renovation work thanks to a $3.5 million gift from Denny Sanford and a $1.5 million contribution from the city of Sioux Falls.
The downtown landmark is expected to reopen in mid-2020 as a luxury movie house, Weiland said.
Dahlmeier had been at Downtown Sioux Falls Inc., an advocacy organization, for four years. He also has worked as a staff assistant to U.S. Sen. Tim Johnson, food pantry manager for Feeding South Dakota and development director for the Sioux Falls Jazz & Blues Society.
Dahlmeier’s responsibilities at DTSF included assisting with some film events held at the State Theatre.
Weiland said one more full-time position likely will be added before the reopening, with part-time staff and volunteers helping operate it after that.
