NEWBERRY — Friends, family and colleagues of Dr. Jim Wiseman came together Saturday to celebrate the man who has selflessly dedicated many years to the Newberry Opera House.
Affectionately known as “Jim,” Wiseman’s vision to restore the Newberry Opera House, which will celebrate its 20th season in August, was a calling.
Under Wiseman’s direction, the Opera House was polished into a one-of-a-kind venue and performing arts center.
“Dr. Wiseman’s vision extended far beyond the Opera House itself, personally helping to remove the asphalt from the street in front and beside the Opera House to return to the earlier brick pavement,” said Deborah Smith, executive director emeritus of the Newberry Opera House and narrator of a video presentation created by Denise Reid.
Wiseman’s vision also included bringing life and beauty to Memorial Park, where many festivals are held and its beauty brings in people from all walks of life.
Wiseman’s parents managed the Old Newberry Hotel and as a child Wiseman always had his eye on the Newberry Opera House, going to see cowboy movies on Saturdays and as a paperboy waiting for papers to be delivered to the Newberry Opera House. It was almost as if it was his destiny.
“With his father in the hotel business, Jim Wiseman grew up witnessing understanding the value of tourism and welcoming hospitality for their economic impact,” said Smith. “Mrs. Wiseman instilled within Jim the value of the arts, civic involvement and an appreciation for historic preservation. Dr. Wiseman was destined to reach great heights. He refused to let the past be the defining moment for downtown Newberry or its Opera House.”
Among many recognition’s received during the celebration, Mayor Foster Senn presented Wiseman the key to the city and designated Feb. 11 as Dr. Jim Wiseman Day in The City of Newberry.
“Your contributions to Newberry will extend long past your 25 years at the helm of the Opera House. We are most appreciative of your service to Newberry,” said Senn.
Buddy Livingston, chairman of Newberry County Council, presented Wiseman with a Newberry County Resolution designating Feb. 11 as Dr. Jim Wiseman Appreciation Day.
Former House Rep. Walt McLeod was in attendance along with Rep. Rick Martin and Sen. Ronnie Cromer, who each offered words of gratitude and appreciation for Wiseman and presented him with a resolution on behalf of the State of South Carolina.
“I want to thank the Newberry Opera House Foundation, the Guild, especially Denise, who was the spearhead and the audience, because without you the Opera House wouldn’t be where it is today,” said Wiseman.
At a celebration meant for him, Wiseman continued to selflessly give back by giving gifts of appreciation to those who were an important part of his life and career.
“This building belongs to you. Thank you so much for coming. Sally and I are just overwhelmed and I’ll never forget this day. Also, very few people get to see their memorial service. I’ve certainly enjoyed it so far,” said Wiseman.
To Wiseman, this was a special day.
“Well, I got to see my memorial service today. It was just a wonderful honor. My vision for the Opera House today is everything and more to me and I am so honored and grateful for the support and I’m glad to be a Newberrian,” said Wiseman.
