ABILENE, Kan. (AP) — An historic theater in Abilene that was destroyed by fire will be rebuilt.

Maggie Hoffman, executive director of the Great Plains Theatre, says an architect has been hired to develop plans to replace the theater. The building was destroyed by fire after being hit by lightning in July. It was built in 1883 and housed a professional Equity theater for 20 years.

Hoffman says no date has been set for the new theater to open but it could be three to five years. She says the theater’s supporters want to see what the architect envisions, and then have plenty of time to raise the funds needed for a new building.

The Salina Journal reports  a professional fundraising expert will be hired to help raise money and apply for grants.