University News

Dr. Richard (Rick) and Monica Iverson.
[Download Print-Quality Image]

Rick Iverson as Snake in SummerStage 2023's "School of Rock."
[Download Print-Quality Image]

Iversons Continue Legacy of Support for WIU SummerStage

January 27, 2025

Printer friendly version

The Hainline Theatre lights will continue shining on local talent for years to come, thanks to the generosity of retired physician Dr. Richard (Rick) Iverson and his wife Monica.

The couple recently committed $50,000 to provide essential funding for SummerStage, through the College of Fine Arts and Communication, ensuring the program's high-caliber productions and community impact for the next five years.

The Iversons were instrumental in the revival of summer theatre in Macomb, which had been on hiatus for several years. The previous Summer Music Theatre, a traditional summer stock program, was established in 1972 and was retired in the early 2000s.

"When I arrived at WIU, Dr. Iverson sought me out and said if we could ever bring summer theatre back to Macomb, he would assist in funding," COFAC Dean Billy Clow said. "Dr. Iverson shared how important he felt it was for a community such as ours. I was in total agreement."

Thanks in part to an initial lead gift from the Iversons, the newly-reimaged SummerStage program launched in 2018 with a production of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat." The new SummerStage format combines WIU faculty, staff and students with local children and community members, providing an engaging experience for the region and offering hands-on learning opportunities for artists of all ages.

The Iversons have continued to provide leadership gifts to support SummerStage through annual IRA distributions, paving the way for productions of "Oliver," "School of Rock" and "Newsies." In addition to his financial support, Rick has also lent his on-stage talents to SummerStage, appearing in a walk-on role during one of the performances of 2023's "School of Rock."

"The Iversons played a huge role in restoring summer theatre in Macomb. Through their generosity, we have made good on our promise to the community and look forward to offering this opportunity for years to come," Clow said. "Without their advocacy and support, SummerStage may not have had the impact we have had."

Now, after providing the foundation for revitalizing SummerStage, the Iversons are making a major commitment to continue their support of the program. Their annual contribution will produce financial support for the greatest needs of the productions, from licensing rights to set and costume supplies and other essential expenses.

"The arts can entertain, inspire and educate us," Rick Iverson said. "They can elevate us and give hope for the future. Each year, we have observed the smiles and joy as people departed from SummerStage performances and it has fostered a meaningful sense of community. That has made it worthwhile for us to continue our long-term support of SummerStage."

The 2025 contribution will help underwrite the cost of the upcoming production of "Matilda" and will provide support for SummerStage's transition to the Goldfarb Center for Performing Arts in 2026.

"We are deeply appreciative and grateful for the Iversons' commitment to WIU and to SummerStage," COFAC Director of Development Patrick Downing said. "By contributing this annual gift through IRA distributions, the Iversons are making a meaningful and significant impact while also enjoying tax benefits. It truly is a win-win for the Iversons and for the fine arts in our community."

Audition and ticket information for "Matilda" will be available soon at wiu.edu/cofac/summerstage/.

Donors wishing to support SummerStage or any other program within the College of Fine Arts and Communication can contact Downing at pg-downing@wiu.edu

Posted By: Drew Donahoo (AM-Donahoo@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing