MISSION & VISION STATEMENTS

MISSION

To ignite imagination, foster connection, and celebrate the art of storytelling.

VISION

Ely’s Historic State Theater cultivates a vibrant, healthy community by providing accessible and inclusive entertainment, educational experiences, and a welcoming gathering space for Ely and beyond.

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ETHICS FOR EHST

Ely’s Historic State Theater Board of Directors established “Ethics for EHST” inspired by Jim Lehrer’s guidelines for ethical journalism, as follows:

• Our theater is dedicated to artistic and educational community entertainment.
• The audience has a right to know what principles guide our theater practices, and the principles should be stated clearly on the EHST website.
• We assume the viewers are smart, caring, and good people.
• We assume there are always reasonable opposing views that should be respected.
• We will attempt to present only programs we would approve for the viewing of our own loved ones.
• We intend to clearly designate opinions from facts in our public statements.
• We present nothing we don’t view as a value to the community. 
• We will seek balance representing points of view.
• We will not allow anonymous messages on our screens.
• Any profanity, sexuality or violence is meant to be viewed in an artistic or educational context.
• We acknowledge that objectivity may be impossible but fairness never is.

Anti-Discrimination Policy

It is the policy of Ely’s Historic State Theater to prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, place of residence, political affiliation, disability, affectional preference, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sex, or age in all aspects of its personnel policies, programs, practices, and operations. This policy shall also apply to the use of all facilities and to participation in all programs and activities hosted by Ely’s Historic State Theater. 

Statement of Inclusivity

Ely’s Historic State Theater (EHST) is committed to creating equitable and accessible arts spaces. EHST’s board of directors and staff are dedicated to making the theater and the arts accessible to all individuals, regardless of their abilities.

Accessibility Policy

EHST complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act by providing physical accessibility, accessible seating, assistive devices and technologies, clear communication, and an equitable business model. The Theater has a commitment to continually assess and improve its accessibility policies and practices.

Further Information & Resources: https://elystatetheater.org/accessibility

Aging Impact

Ely’s Historic State Theater’s vision is for all people 60+ in Ely and the Arrowhead Region to have equal access to our services, programs and activities. We value caring for all of our community members and providing quality, accessible entertainment for people of all ages and abilities. 

In 2024, Ely’s Historic State Theater was nominated and received an Aging Impact Award from the Arrowhead Area Agency on Aging. Our staff go above and beyond to provide attentive service to our regular patrons, and it doesn’t go unnoticed. Next time you stop by our theater, please be sure to thank our concessions staff and team for their attention to serving the Ely community.