Stratford will seal up its long-dormant Shakespeare Theatre as the town searches for someone to reopen it.

The landmark venue hasn't hosted a production in 18 years. To prevent further deterioration, the town will pick a company Wednesday night to essentially seal it up.

Several contractors took a tour a few days ago before bidding to undertake the project and protect what's left inside.

The sealing work could begin next spring, but it's unclear when or if the theater will ever actually reopen.

Beth Daponte says she remembers the venue's heyday well. She says she hopes a new strategy will help raise millions of dollars to bring it back to life.

"My first job was at the theater," she says. "It's an emblem of the town, and eventually it's going to be an excellent emblem."