The same issue that is one of the biggest challenges that historic theater operators face—venue age—is also, interestingly enough, something that serves as an attribute as these palaces are preserved with the utmost tender loving care in their communities.
As Kelly Updike, executive director of the Embassy Theatre in Fort Wayne, Ind., said, “Our building is more than bricks and mortar to our community members.”
Indeed, the same can be said for theaters in any city as their historical and emotional attachment to the local community is difficult to quantify but known to exist.
Following are comments shared by historic theater operators about the benefits of operating these elegant, time-honored treasures.
Dennis Andres, Morris Performing Arts Center, South Bend, Ind.: The ability to give historic and architectural tours of the Morris helps in promoting upcoming shows and concerts and promoting the various spaces for private event rental for weddings, receptions and meetings. From the Grand Lobby with 3,716 square feet, three crystal chandeliers and third-floor domed ceilings to the opulent theater décor, first time visitors are wowed by the exquisite architecture.
John Bell, Tampa (Fla.) Theatre: People don’t just like the Tampa Theatre, they love the Tampa Theatre. Part of the emotional connection comes from its breathtaking architecture, but much of the connection that people feel comes from the story behind the theater. It was an endangered building facing the wrecking ball, and this community rallied to figure out how to save it. My favorite sight is that of patrons giving their friends impromptu tours. They often say, “We restored this piece over here,” or “We put in digital cinema last year.” That speaks volumes about the community’s sense of proprietorship.
Josh Davies, Historic Fox Theatre, Hutchinson, Kan.: The benefits are the experience our audience and performers get that they can’t find anywhere else. Our theater is one-of-a-kind, as most historic art-deco theaters are. You can feel the energy of generations past who have all come together in this magical place to socialize and be entertained.
Bev Ford, Marion Palace Theatre, Marion, Ohio: The biggest benefit of the history of this venue is the memories. This is the place where many met for a date, and some met for a lifetime. It is the scene of first kisses and final farewells, graduations and engagements. It is where talent is born and dreams take flight. The Palace is where thousands of school-aged children meet each year to be educated and entertained. It is where dozens of live shows, from local talent to top-name professionals, perform every month. It is where lives are woven together.
Julie Lamine, Meyer Theatre, Green Bay, Wis.: The Meyer board and I feel very blessed to have this opportunity to take the baton—so to speak—and carry on what the original group had intended when they built this theater in the heart of downtown Green Bay. We do that by donating tickets to our events to other not-for-profits in our area. We are also proud of educating local young people in the performing arts.
Joan Squires, Omaha Performing Arts (Orpheum Theater), Omaha, Neb.: The Omaha community truly feels the Orpheum is part of their personal history. This sense of ownership has helped us sell tickets and raise gifts for major renovations.
Don Telford, San Diego Theatres (Balboa Theatre), San Diego: The community appreciates the uniqueness and the special environment of the venue. Coming to a valued historic theater heightens their event experience. They put up with the crowded lobbies and limited restrooms in favor of the overall experience. And they respect the environment they are in, which results in less wear-and-tear or needed repairs. There is a true appreciation of not being in another sterile venue, but one with history and stunningly beautiful.
Kelly Updike, Embassy Theatre, Fort Wayne, Ind.: There are great rewards, personally and professionally, in operating a historic venue. Through a grassroots effort, $250,000 was raised in the early 1970s to save the theater from demolition. They have ownership because of their own investments, financially and through time and labor. People of all ages take pride in this history and we have a strong volunteer corps of 400. In addition, performers also enjoy the beautiful atmosphere.