About

The mission of the Friends of the Coronado is to champion the historic Coronado Theatre, a time-honored symbol of civic pride, as a performing arts center and community asset for all to use and share.

The Friends of the Coronado Foundation is a not-for-profit organization formed in 1997 to launch a fund-raising campaign to expand, restore and renovate Rockford's "Wonder Theatre." The Friends of the Coronado organization would go on to guide every detail of the planning, community involvement and fundraising for the $18.5 million theater project, which was awarded the highest honor by the United States Department of the Interior. 

• The Friends of the Coronado provides the expertise and necessary direction to enable the Coronado Theatre to successfully preserve the historic design integrity of the architecture, furnishings and interior finishes. 
• Preservation projects are planned and implemented with impeccable accuracy and excellence.

• Reach for the Stars Project 
• Coronado Classroom Project

• Coronado Theatre Education Center – Photos, newspaper clippings, an firsthand accounts of the Coronado's history are on display for the public's viewing in the Coronado Classroom Education Center of the Coronado Theatre. It's truly an exceptional display of living history (Provided by the Friends of the Coronado and The Land of Lincoln Theatre Organ Society)
• Public Historic Tours of the Coronado Theatre - Provided by the Friends of the Coronado and The Land of Lincoln Theatre Organ Society
• Special Events -Register to receive information on upcoming events 

Today, the Friends of the Coronado and the Coronado Theatre serve our region, strengthening our economy and exemplifying civic pride and excellence.  The Friends of the Coronado is committed to uplifting our community by preserving the Coronado Theatre, a registered National Historic Landmark, with impeccable historic integrity. 

We are committed to youth education programs to empower and equip young people with knowledge of historic preservation, civic engagement, and local and world historic events as they relate to the Coronado's rich history. Equally important, our youth performing arts program Reach for the Stars exposes thousands of school age children annually to world-class performing arts experiences at no cost to the students or the schools, eliminating financial barriers. 

We are committed to ensuring all people have access to the Coronado, so this architectural and cultural landmark and the many performances that grace its stage continue to enrich and inspire our community.

Preservation

Each preservation project requires tremendous research and care. The Friends of the Coronado are working behind the scenes to research with a wide network of preservation and theater experts to plan and implement replacement, and restoration projects with the highest historic preservation standards and success.

Community and Children’s Outreach

The Friends’ donors and sponsors provide 100% accessible programs to bring children and community members to have a special day at the Coronado through the Reach For Stars, Coronado Classroom, and Coronado Education Center projects. Visit our education page to learn more.