The Historic Lansdowne Theater Corporation, (HLTC), aspires to adaptively reuse the 1,358 seat Lansdowne Theater as a concert and performing arts venue featuring nationally known singer songwriters, adult-alternative and classic rock musicians, and for use by area non-profit performing arts and civic organizations. Through the leadership of State Representative Nicholas Micozzie and State Senator Anthony Williams, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has committed $4 million to the project. With historic tax credits and other financing sources the HLTC has reached nearly 70% of its financing goal. Delaware County Council recently awarded a $125,215 grant in support of the restoration of the outdoor lobby, including the ticket booth, front doors, lighting fixtures, poster cases, stucco and stone baseboard. Work is expected to begin in early 2015. In 2013 Delaware County Council funded the restoration of the marquee.
The re-opened Lansdowne Theater will bring an estimated 100,000 annual theater patrons to the central business district and will be a significant economic catalyst for Lansdowne and surrounding communities. The effort to restore the theater began in earnest after Representative Micozzie helped the Lansdowne Economic Development Corporation and the Greater Lansdowne Civic Association secure a $900,000 grant from the PA Department of Community and Economic Development. The grant was used to establish the HLTC, to purchase and stabilize the building and to renovate the retail and offices spaces.
The restoration and re-opening of the Lansdowne Theater has received enthusiastic support from the Borough Council of Lansdowne, Delaware County Council, State Representative Micozzie, State Senator Anthony Williams, U.S. Senators Bob Casey and Pat Toomey and other local officials. Joining them are local business owners, Lansdowne Business and Professional Association, William Penn School District Board of Directors, the Lansdowne Economic Development Corporation and other community organizations. Community support is critical to keep elected officials engaged in the project.
Help demonstrate community support by attending the Second Annual Halloween Ball at the Lansdowne Theater, on November 1, 2014, 8 – 11pm. Enjoy an evening of dancing and fun in the pre-restored, “eerie” theater. Prizes for best costumes will be awarded. Guests 21 years of age and older may purchase beer and wine from the cash bar. Tickets are $45 per person, two for $80, and may be purchased at LansdowneTheater.org or in person at Vinyl Revival, Regency Café or Avenue Deli.
To learn more about the Lansdowne Theater or to make a tax deductible contribution please visit the website, or look for a “Save The Lansdowne” donation canister on display at over 50 Lansdowne shops and businesses.
-Jeanne Ketchum