Volunteers make the organization go.

“We couldn’t do what we do without volunteers. Everything we do requires volunteers. It’s enjoyable, a very fun way to get to know people,” said SST Executive Director Lorie Jewell.

She said SST seeks volunteers to help with operations, building maintenance, ushering, ticket scanning, concessions, data entry and event technical assistance.

Volunteers Richard Gurska and Kent Menzel laughed as they chatted while sorting theater stage equipment. Years ago, they performed in shows here.

Staff photo by Fritz Busch Volunteer Sofie Hanson cleans balony seats at the State Street Theater Spruce Up Day Saturday.

“I’m taking batteries out of candles,” said Gurska, a Heartland Express bus driver.

A Milwaukee native, Gurska said moving to New Ulm was a good thing for him.

“Of all the places I’ve lived, New Ulm is my favorite. I love State Street Theater, the City of New Ulm and this part of Minnesota,” he said.

A retired New Ulm High School chemistry teacher, Menzel served on the New Ulm Community Theater board before the State Street Theater was created in the former school auditorium.

“I was in lots of shows here. I enjoy theater and being on stage. I was fortunate enough to be on stage with all my kids, which was fun,” he said.

Staff photo by Fritz Busch Volunteer Sofie Hanson cleans balcony seats at the State Street Theater Spruce Up Day Saturay.

New Ulm High School sophomores Sofie Hanson and Carmen Schotzko were cleaning seats in the theater balcony.

Hanson said she has also been active in high school theater.

“I like the theater community,” she said.

Schotzko had similar thoughts about theater.

“It’s a great group of people. It’s always fun to support theater because I’ve always loved theater myself,” she said. “Cleaning doesn’t seem like it would be fun but it can be. It’s a really good time here with my friends.”

Volunteers were treated to a continental breakfast before they began working Saturday. Pizza was served at noon.

An SST volunteer appreciation dinner is set for Jan. 20. The event is open to current and prospective volunteers. Anyone interested is welcome to preregister on the SST website (statestreetnewulm.org/) under “Get Involved” and “Volunteer,” email info@statestreettheater.org. Or call 507-359-9990.

The next SST performance is a tribute to the music of The Cars, 7-9 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 24. David K will sing Roy Orbison’s multi-octave range and share Orbison’s history 7-9 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 14.