Iowa eyesore becomes Iowa icon! Steve Peters on saving The Ingersoll
Release Date: 01/28/2026
The Iowa Podcast
The drive down Ingersoll avenue is a juxtaposition of new and trendy, but also rundown and gross. But this month, with the launch of The Ingersoll that brand is finally behind us. Steve Peters, co-owner of The Ingersoll, and CEO of VenuWorks describes the process of saving the building and bringing back to life the iconic marquee. 💡 Find this show on your favorite player: 🗞️ Be first to get new interviews: 🐖 Get a free $30 gift card from Jethro's BBQ: Peters says every inch of the building needed to be gutted and redone to save it. But Iowans have responded...
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info_outlineThe drive down Ingersoll avenue is a juxtaposition of new and trendy, but also rundown and gross. But this month, with the launch of The Ingersoll that brand is finally behind us. Steve Peters, co-owner of The Ingersoll, and CEO of VenuWorks describes the process of saving the building and bringing back to life the iconic marquee.
💡 Find this show on your favorite player: https://iowapodcast.com/the-iconic-ingersoll/
🗞️ Be first to get new interviews: https://iowapodcast.com/subscribe/
🐖 Get a free $30 gift card from Jethro's BBQ: https://iowapodcast.com/jethrosbbq
Peters says every inch of the building needed to be gutted and redone to save it. But Iowans have responded favorably, selling the venue out every night in January. And the good news doesn't stop there. Despite it being open for only a few weeks, 50% of the acts are from across the country. Musicians, actors, and touring groups are already getting in line to come perform for Iowans.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:13 The Ingersoll Theater: From Eyesore to Crown Jewel
01:14 Challenges and Delays in Renovation
03:04 The Grand Opening and Community Response
03:48 Historical Significance and Restoration Efforts
06:50 Modern Upgrades and Technological Enhancements
14:01 Community Support and Unexpected Challenges
14:53 Unexpected Challenges in Building Restoration
15:25 Community Support and Initial Steps
16:02 Long-term Viability and Programming Plans
16:31 Theater Offerings and Local Talent
18:58 Personal Connection to the Arts
19:36 Private vs. Public Funding in Theater Restoration
20:28 Ensuring Professional Management and Maintenance
23:03 Interest from Outside Acts and Community Involvement
27:29 Diverse Entertainment Spectrum
29:14 Conclusion and Ticket Information