Orpheum Sign Lighting

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David Michael Miller

Sign o’ the times: Take a trip into Madison’s past when the Orpheum Theater flips the switch to turn on its gorgeous new replica sign for the first time. The 55-foot-high “blade sign” re-creates the 1920s original, and will be lit up with 2,000 energy-efficient light bulbs.

press release: A long awaited treasure will be returning to State Street the week of July 4, as installation begins for the new blade sign at The Orpheum Theater in downtown Madison.

In construction since September 2015, this project by Sign Art Studio sought to replicate the original sign, which stood as a staple historic landmark on State Street since the 1920s.  When completed, the sign will measure 55 feet in height, 85 feet from the sidewalk to the top, with a total of 2,000 energy efficient light bulbs.

“We felt that such a crucial piece of Madison history deserves to exist again,” said Dan Yoder, owner of Sign Art Studio. “It has been an incredible honor to head such a large project. It would not have been possible without the Paras family giving us a chance and embracing the idea.”

Dan Yoder and his team will begin installing the new sign July 6, with an expected completion date of July 7, weather permitting. The Orpheum Theater and Sign Art Studio ask that all patrons be considerate of the installation site during this time to ensure the safety of both the local community and construction team.

Upon completion, a time lapse video of the blade sign build will be available on The Orpheum Theater’s website (madisonorpheum.com) and Facebook page (facebook.com/madorpheum). The public is welcome to come and watch the lighting of the sign on Thursday, July 21st at 9pm.