HISTORIC THEATER REVIVED

Historic Theater Saved by Community That Cares

"Let me start by saying that I love the Eureka Theater. I went there as a kid and always had a good time. I went there on dates in high school. I've always loved Art Deco and Streamline Moderne styles"...Wendy Petty, Board President

The Eureka Concert & Film Center is a private non-profit (c)3 corporation. All donations are tax deductible and go toward the ongoing restoration of this grand historic 1939 movie theater.

 The Eureka Concert & Film Center is completely staffed by local volunteers dedicated to restoring the Eureka Theater as part of our local heritage for use as a film, concert and performing arts center.

We now offer a website for anyone interested.
 Http://www.theeurekatheater.org Telephone: (707) 442-2970

My interview went as follows:

MOLLOY:  When did you become interested in Art Deco design?

PETTY:  Since the age of 14, I have loved the movies from the 20's, 30's, and 40's. A particular favorite of mine is "The Thin Man".

MOLLOY: What sorts of tasks does your involvement with this renovation project do you tend to?

From photo gallery on website

PETTY:  I co-ordinate the contractors, legal situations, long and short term goals, interior and exterior restoration planning, heating, painting, carpet patching, and finding 5 matching vintage sinks for the ladies bathroom.

MOLLOY: This is done from your shop "Annex '39"?

PETTY: I moved my shop from Old Town in Eureka to this location so I can be next to the theater and be available for mail, packages, meetings,...whatever the theater needs. The shop features Art Deco, Arts & Crafts, & Mid-Century quality antiques and collectibles.

MOLLOY: You said you were an amateur "mixologist"?

From photo gallery on website

PETTY: Yes, my bar mixing skills come in handy whenever we are hosting a fund-raising event. The theater has its own bar and dance floor. I like to create specialty drinks for particular occasions.

MOLLOY:  How did your organization come into being?

PETTY:  A local community member purchased the building about 1999-2000. In 2009 it became a designated historical monument featuring Film, Music, and Live Theatre. This designation qualified us for special funding and tax privileges.

MOLLOY: Why should this theater be saved?

PETTY:  My answer is that the theater matters. It matters to the history of our town and our community. It is important to have places for children and young musicians to develop their talents.
It is important to offer an inexpensive venue for local plays, choirs and dance troupes.  It is important to breathe life into our community. And, we all benefit from its restoration.

MOLLOY:  Great, thank you!

For more information about how to preserve a theater in your area, you might consider going to this site. Http://www.lhat.org   (League of Historic American Theatres)