The Millwald

Built in 1928, The Millwald is a classically inspired brick theater in downtown Wytheville featuring a tripartite façade with ornate brick, terra cotta, and cast stone detailing, along with an iconic neon marquee. Renovations in the 1980s divided the original auditorium into three smaller theaters and left the lower level largely unfinished.

This rehabilitation restores the historic single-auditorium configuration, expands the stage over the former orchestra pit, and converts the flanking storefronts into box office and concession areas. A new marquee was replicated from the historic example. A new stair and passenger elevator connect the theater to a renovated lower level, which includes dressing rooms, administrative offices, and a speakeasy.

The project was funded through a combination of local, state, and federal grants, private donations, and Historic Tax Credits.

Location: Wytheville, Virginia
Date: 2022
Size: 14,500 SF

Photos by Nick Waite Photo.