82-year-old who ran Seward theater ‘was the epitome’ of community

SEWARD, Neb. (KLKN) – The Seward community is mourning the loss of a local legemd.

On Saturday, the co-owner of the Rivoli Theatre died surrounded by family.

Julie Wisehart was a pillar in the Seward community, inspiring many generations and pouring her heart into the theatre.

Pat Coldiron, one of Wisehart’s good friends, said she was always there to lend a helping hand, no matter how big of an ask.

“Every time I’d get an idea, Julie was on board, and she was always there to help,” she said. “That’s what’s so important and that’s what makes a community great, is when you have all the parts of the puzzle and everybody partnering and working together. And Julie was the epitome of that.”

After opening the theater in 1979, Wisehart opened its doors to the Flatwater Film Festival, where it continues to this day.

Jonathan Jank, the president and CEO of the Seward County Chamber of Commerce and Development, said that has had a positive impact on the state as a whole.

“Naturally been a tremendous outlet for filmmakers, actors and people associated with the film industry that are connected to Nebraska to showcase their art,” he said. “She’s always been a welcoming spirit to really celebrate arts and culture.”

Wisehart was also a member of the Seward Arts Council, where the “Julie Award,” the organization’s take on an Emmy, is named after her.

Jeanne Wiemer, the president of the arts council, said that is something that will last forever.

Jeanne’s daughter, who worked for Julie when she was younger, gave her a quote on the impact Julie had on her life:

“Today has me reflecting a lot on how influential Julie was in my life. She truly helped me grow into a woman in the working world. We had so many laughs and also worked so hard, too. There was no job too big or too small. They were all important. She helped me gain confidence in making decisions quickly.”

Julie will be honored Monday at the chamber’s annual awards ceremony.

And her friends said her legacy will live on throughout the community.