The Lansdowne Theater, a historic gem in the borough of Lansdowne, is gearing up to reopen its doors for the first time in nearly four decades on August 22. This much-anticipated event will feature a presentation of ‘Chazz Palminteri: A Bronx Tale.’
A fire in 1987 led to the closure of the beloved movie theater, which had been a cornerstone of local entertainment since its opening in 1927. The century-old structure has remained dormant since then, but a new chapter is set to begin as the Historic Lansdowne Theater Corporation takes the lead in the revitalization efforts.
After acquiring the theater in 2007, the nonprofit organization embarked on a significant restoration project aimed at transforming the venue into a concert hall. Over the years, they have faced numerous challenges, including extensive fundraising and addressing substantial structural issues.
Executive Director Matt Schultz shared insights about the journey, emphasizing that the project goes beyond just restoring a building. “It’s about enhancing the community and creating jobs in businesses that are going to locate around the theater,” he stated.
Local eateries are already beginning to thrive in anticipation of the theater’s reopening. Backstage + Tap Grill has recently opened its doors across the street, and developers are exploring plans for new residential options in the area. Schultz anticipates that the reopened theater will attract at least 100,000 visitors each year, thereby boosting local commerce and bringing vibrancy back to Lansdowne.
Originally constructed as a silent movie house, the Lansdowne Theater featured live orchestral performances alongside films. Over the years, it adapted to accommodate the transition to sound films and hosted a variety of cinematic experiences until the unfortunate fire that halted its operations during a screening of ‘Beverly Hills Cop II.’
With the theater shuttered and ownership changing hands multiple times, it wasn’t until the Historic Lansdowne Theater Corporation took charge that the dream of restoration began to materialize. “Our biggest challenge for a very long time was raising the money, raising the sufficient funds to really restore the building because the building had significant issues,” Schultz explained.
The restoration project required substantial investment, amounting to around $20 million. The building required significant updates, including a new roof, modern heating and air conditioning systems, upgraded electrical wiring, a thorough paint job, and new seating. The challenge was to marry modern technology with the theater’s historical integrity, a process that required not only creativity but also a combined effort from many constituents.
Funding poured in from various sources, including federal, state, county, and local government grants. Additionally, over 1,000 individual donors, some as far away as Tokyo, contributed to the cause. Volunteers have also played a crucial role, further demonstrating the community’s connection to this beloved landmark.
“Our vision was supported by everyone involved,” stated Schultz, reflecting on the collective effort. “It was all those people who were able to get the vision to help us get this done, and we deeply appreciate what they’ve done not just for the organization, not just for the building, but for the community as a whole.”
As part of their gratitude, the organization is planning a donor acknowledgment event to thank all those who contributed.
During a recent visit to the theater, Schultz shared his favorite aspect of the restoration: the original tapestry above the balconies. These nearly 100-year-old curtains were meticulously cleaned and restored, highlighting the theater’s commitment to preserving its rich history while stepping forward into a bright future.
Schultz concluded, “These curtains have seen everything that has happened in this building, they have experienced it, and they’re going to continue to experience the Lansdowne Theater and its new life as a concert venue.”
The resurgence of the Lansdowne Theater represents not just a revival of a historic building but a hopeful sign for the local community and economy.
image source from：whyy
