The Delavan Theater, constructed in 1929, was one of the nations few ‘atmospheric’ theaters –creating an escape to a Mediterranean courtyard under the night sky. It hosted live vaudevilleand movies, silent then talkies, as one of the best-known locations for entertainment in theSoutheastern Wisconsin lakes area. Over its now 96-year history it was split into a two-plexcinema, then an antiques retail store, then a church. In 2020 it was purchased by its currentowner who saved its demise by repairing two failing timber bow string roof trusses over theaudience chamber. Comprehensive Architectural, Engineering, Theatrical, and Food servicedesign documents were completed in early 2023. The documents were approved by the State ofWisconsin Historic Preservation Office and US National Park Service as in compliance with theUS Department of the Interior’s Standards for Historic Preservation making the project eligiblefor both State and National Historic Tax Credits. The owner formed a 501(c)3, Friends of theWishing Star Theater, for which this Architect is the President. In cooperation with the ownerand his New York Theater costume and set design brother, every detail has been thoughtfullydesigned for an authentic and immersive place where dreams are made, and wishes come true.The project has and continues to seek grants, donations, investors and financial institutions tobring it from built on paper to real world completion.