FAIRMONT — The Fairmont Opera House is one step closer to re-opening after announcing it has raised enough money to begin long-awaited repairs to the historic building. Executive Director Blake Potthoff made the announcement Saturday before the opening performance of Annie by the Fairmont Area Community Theater, telling the audience that two major donations helped the campaign reach its construction goal of about $3 to $3.5 million. The Opera House has been closed since December 2023. Potthoff said the funding ensures restoration work can begin and that the organization will “go home” to its historic venue. Major contributions came from The Rosen Family Foundation and the Bryan and Mary Beth Sweet Foundation. While construction can now move forward, officials say they still need to raise at least another $1 million to fully fund the project. Donations can be made through the Fairmont Opera House website. You can also contact Potthoff directly to learn more about the repairs and fundraising efforts