REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
First Features at Four Star Theatre
Friends of Four Star are requesting proposals from individuals, groups, or businesses who would like to use the Four Star Theatre.
Here’s how you can get involved with the Four Star Theatre:
- Hold a one-time event, workshop, or meeting
- Apply for a Short-Term Residency (present a workshop series or season of programming, etc)
The Four Star Theatre is a not-for-profit multi-use cultural arts venue in the Burton Heights neighborhood along the South Division Corridor in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This RFP is for use after the completion of our “Phase I” renovation, which allows for limited occupancy in the lobby and auditorium. The last renovation in the venue was in the 1990’s when the venue was converted into a nightclub. Improvements for phase I include life safety systems (fire suppression and alarm), new lighting, and activation of the existing bathrooms and mechanical equipment. The highest capacity will be 250. There will be a house music system and a separate sound system for live music and broadcast events. A laser projector will be available for use on the existing screen. There is an 85” display in the bar area and a 55” display in the foyer which can be synced with the projection system. Front-facing stage lights will be available for use. Applicants can supplement house systems with their own equipment. The auditorium size is approximately 6000 SF and the lobby is 1500 SF. Refer to exhibit A for equipment details. You can also check out the virtual tour on our website (improvements have been made since the virtual tour was documented). The upper and lower levels will not be occupiable.
THE OPPORTUNITY
We’re providing two forms to help organize the conversation but the bottom line is: we want to hear from you! Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions and ideas, or if you feel there is something that doesn’t fit the form. Contact Marcus Ringnalda – marcus@fourstargr.com
The Friends of Four Star are pursuing grant funding that would allow for completely free or subsidized use of the venue for our top applicants, funds may even be available to cover the costs of your event (catering, concessions ticketing, setup/takedown, transportation, etc.). Applicants could still charge for their event if applicable. Submission of this form is not a binding commitment.
The mission of Friends of Four Star is to preserve and restore the historic 4 Star Theatre and convert it to a world-class multi-use community arts venue which serves the diverse community of Grand Rapids and provides a regional draw for high quality entertainment and community building activities. Our Phase II capital campaign is underway and the renovation will include enhancements to achieve an occupancy of up to 1,000.
Anyone Can Submit
Any individual, group, organization, or business may submit proposals. Applicants that demonstrate alignment with the Friends of Four Star Mission will be prioritized. Individuals, groups, and businesses with roots in the south side of Grand Rapids, and/or engaged in arts, heritage, or community-building programming are encouraged to submit proposals.
Review Criteria
Quality (programmatic excellence)
Feasibility (financial ability, past experience, organizational readiness)
Impact (alignment with Friends of Four Star mission, communities served)
How to Submit
Step 1 – Please thoroughly read this Request for Proposals and the Four Star Theatre Rate Sheet—these rates are negotiable.
Step 2 – There are two proposal forms provided in this Request for Proposals, depending on your proposed use. Use any or all of the three forms to craft your proposal(s).
Form 1: events (one event, class, meeting, conference, etc.)
Form 2: regular, short-term use (rent office or studio space, present your season, hold multiple classes, etc.)
Timeline
RFPs will receive initial review as they are received by Friends of Four Star board and a group of community members.
Applicants submitting Form 1 and requesting dates prior to September 2022 will be notified by June 30,2022 if their request is approved or denied. Applicants requesting dates after September will be notified by July 30, 2022.
Applicants submitting Form 2 will be notified by June 30 if their proposal will move forward in consideration, and if further materials or interviews will be required. Finalists may be asked to submit additional materials, undergo interview(s), or participate in meetings with other finalists to determine what proposals will work best together going forward.
Description of Attachments
There are multiple attachments included at the end of this document.
Furniture available for use includes:
120 modern stackable chairs
50 folding chairs
6 high top tables
24 bar height stools
3 classroom desks
6 additional tables of various sizes
Table linens will be available for an additional charge.
Four Star Theatre Rate Sheet – Lists rates and and services available.
1944 Division Ave S, Grand Rapids MI 49316
Questions or more information, contact:
Marcus Ringnalda, marcus@fourstargr.com
Check out our website at www.fourstargr.com
Proposal Form 1: EVENT RENTAL
Use this form if you’d like to use the hall for a specific event, class, meeting, conference, etc. Proposals are accepted for events happening after June 30, 2022. While Four Star Theatre relies partially upon rental revenue in order to finance operation of the facility, rates may be negotiated depending upon the proposed amount of use, timing of use, demonstrated need, and alignment with our mission. Feel free to submit up to three event rental proposals for this time frame. If you are interested in holding more than three events, or if your event spans more than three consecutive weeks, please use Form 2.
Proposal Form 2: REGULAR, SHORT-TERM USE
Use this form if you’d like to use the hall regularly to utilize the venue. While The Four Star Theatre relies partially upon rental revenue in order to finance operation of the facility, rates may be negotiated depending upon the proposed amount of use, timing of use, demonstrated need, and alignment with our mission.
Four Star Theatre Rate Sheet
Rates below include reasonable custodial staffing, heating, ventilation and basic overhead lighting. Base rent does not include variable charges, such as labor or equipment.
Weekly and monthly rates are negotiable.
Auditorium & Lobby 125-capacity until September, occupancy will be increased to 250 at that time; 6,000 sq ft; open dance floor, historic proscenium or modern floor stage configurations; portable/flexible seating
- Performance or event (full weekday/night): $1000
- Performance or event (full weekend day – Saturday or Sunday/night): $1800
- Public or private class up to 90 minutes: $80 or $2 per attendee, whichever is greater.
- Rehearsal (per hour): $80
- Meeting (non-ticketed) (per hour): $100
- Private party/event/quincineara/wedding/conference : $1800 full day / $1000 half day
Labor Rates
- Labor for either rehearsal or performance is charged out at the following rates:
- House Technician (required for all stage time): $40.00/hr
- All other labor and operators: $30.00/hr
- House Manager (required for performances): $50.00/hr
Time and one half is charged after 8 hours.
Equipment Charges
- Public address sound: no charge
- Basic grid lighting: no charge
- Digital Projector: $20 per day
- Dance Floor: $100 per event
- Laser Projector/licensed film (5 hours / up to 2 screenings): $600.00; Additional screenings in one day $300.00 each