Re-opening the Lyric Theatre last month took a substantial amount of community work and volunteers.

But keeping the theater operational will take just as much work, according to Rugby Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Shelley Block.

“The biggest thing is knowing that this is our community theater, making sure we attend the movies on the weekend and volunteering to help in concessions,” she said.

Block said the theater, which is owned by the Rugby Job Development Authority and operated by a community board, is looking for people to volunteer for shifts at the theater.

Block said she realizes people in town are busy, but helping at the theater is fun and isn’t a huge time commitment.

The theater needs nine volunteers per weekend, three each night with two working concessions and one taking tickets.

“We know a lot goes on in this town and people are busy and most volunteering somewhere else,” she said. “So help us find new volunteers. Is there someone who just needs to be asked or hasn’t heard? It is very fun and easy: we ask that they are there by 6:30 to start popcorn and get acquainted with the concessions area. Movies begin at 7:30 and then time to restock candy and pop. Cleaning is done after the movie, but not much to do as people take pride in their theater and help pick up.”

Block said volunteering can be a great family experience. In some communities that operate a theater, businesses commit to have employees work a night or a weekend.

“We will be sending letters to the businesses, but right now there are a few who have just come to the plate, so to speak, who want their employees to take part in volunteering and helping their community theater,” Block said. “We have had families volunteering. It tickles your heart to see them teach the kids how important our theater is, but also taking ownership in the Lyric.”

Anyone who would like to volunteer can call Holly at 776-5013.