Sunday Conversation: Deputy City Manager Lisa Goodwin on the Future of the Historic Liberty Theatre

The Liberty Theatre—long considered one of Columbus’ most treasured cultural landmarks and the historic soul of Black arts in the region—is steadily advancing through its long-awaited restoration. Since the city officially took ownership of the property in January 2023, major structural work has been completed, a new management structure is in place, and community engagement efforts are underway to shape the next chapter of the iconic venue.

This week, The Courier Eco Latino Sunday Edition sits down with Lisa Goodwin, Deputy City Manager for Current Operations, for an in-depth conversation about where things stand, what has been accomplished, and what comes next for the Liberty Theatre and Cultural Arts Center.

“We want to preserve the past, embrace the future, and make the Liberty the beating heart of the community once again.”
— Lisa Goodwin, Deputy City Manager

Q&A With Deputy City Manager Lisa Goodwin

Q: As Deputy City Manager, what is your current role in the Liberty Theatre restoration?

Goodwin: At this point, I’m responsible for overseeing the Liberty Theatre project. Earlier this year, the city approved a new Sports and Entertainment Authority, which now manages the Civic Center, the Ice Rink, portions of A.J. McClung Stadium, and the South Commons Softball Complex. But the Liberty Theatre was intentionally carved out of that structure. It remains under direct city oversight, which includes my office.

Q: Can you give us an update on the current phase of the restoration?

Goodwin: Absolutely. The first priority was stabilizing the building, starting with a brand-new roof. That was a major investment—over half a million dollars—and that work is now complete. Once the roof was secure, we moved into mold remediation. Because the old roof had deteriorated for so long, water infiltration created mold issues throughout the building, including black mold. Walls had to be removed and entire sections cut out. The good news is that all the mold is gone, and we can now safely walk the building without protective suits. With stabilization and remediation complete, we’re moving forward with installation of a new HVAC system.

Q: When the city took ownership in 2023, the theatre no longer had its original governing board. What does management look like now?

Goodwin: We created the Liberty Theatre and Cultural Arts Advisory Board, and they’ve been outstanding. The board is chaired by former Councilor Mimi Woodson, with Oz Roberts as vice chair. The members are very engaged—they’ve toured other theaters around the region to see what works, what we might emulate, and what amenities could enhance the Liberty’s future.

They also insisted on public input. They didn’t want to decide the theatre’s future in isolation, so we’ve hosted multiple community meetings and listening sessions.

Q: What have you heard from the public during those listening sessions?

Goodwin: The community wants us to honor the past while embracing the future. People want modern technology, strong music and arts education programs, jazz performances, concerts, stage plays—things that reflect the Liberty’s cultural legacy. Many also expressed interest in an all-day presence: perhaps a small café, creative spaces, or an area where people can gather even when no event is taking place. All those ideas are being compiled and shared with the Advisory Board and, eventually, with City Council.

Q: What might the new Liberty Theatre look like? Is there a design in place?

Goodwin: We have a master plan, but no final design yet. We want community input before we finalize anything. There have been discussions about an outdoor amphitheater behind the building, improved parking, and even whether Columbus should have a smaller and larger performance venue—similar to what the RiverCenter offers. All of that is conceptual for now. We won’t move forward until we complete public engagement and secure the necessary funding.

Q: Speaking of funding, what resources are currently available?

Goodwin: Right now, we have another $1 million available to begin interior work once the HVAC is completed. It’s not enough to finish the entire project, but it’s a start. We also secured $4 million for streetscape improvements along 8th Avenue—lighting, pavers, beautification—everything that will help return the Liberty to its rightful place as a cultural anchor in the Liberty District.

There are additional grants available, including those specifically for historic venues such as the Fox Theatre Institute grants and other cultural arts grants. Staff and the Advisory Board are actively pursuing them.

Q: Could the Liberty eventually operate as an all-day Cultural Center offering classes and community programming?

Goodwin: Absolutely. The vision many people share includes ballet, dance, piano lessons, performance arts—just like the Liberty used to provide. We want the building to be full of life throughout the day, not just during events.

The historic kitchen space remains, and we expect the facility will continue to serve as an event center for receptions, weddings, and community gatherings.

Q: How will the theater be managed day-to-day once it reopens?

Goodwin: The Liberty will operate under the city, with management support from the Civic Center. We already have a dedicated staff member in place—someone who will handle bookings and daily operations for the Liberty Theatre and Cultural Arts Center. Even now, calls go directly to a Liberty-specific phone line, answered by that staff member at the Civic Center. The Civic Center’s director will provide overall leadership.

Q: How will the Advisory Board ensure transparency and ongoing community involvement?

Goodwin: They’re doing well already. They’ve held public meetings, gathered input, and are preparing to publish updates on the city’s website. Press releases will also be used to inform the public about milestones and next steps. Their focus is on keeping the community informed and excited about the progress.

Q: Finally, how does the Liberty Theatre tie into the larger vision for the Liberty District?

Goodwin: The Advisory Board is focused solely on the theatre itself, but the city is also working on the broader Liberty District master plan. That includes housing—what we call “rooftops”—along with potential commercial development like a grocery store or retail spaces. The Liberty Theatre will serve as the cultural heart of it all. Revitalizing the district starts with restoring its most iconic landmark.

“The Liberty Theatre is the soul of the community. Once it reopens, it will anchor the entire Liberty District.”
— Lisa Goodwin