ST. PETERSBURG, FL. – The Beach Theatre in Pinellas County had its grand opening on January 15, 1940, and was the first movie theatre in the county to be equipped with sound and air conditioning. It become a beloved landmark on St. Pete Beach.
The building closed in 2012, but a local group is looking to open it once again. Chris Scott purchased the theater and formed The Beach Theatre Community Foundation, Inc., a film arts non-profit organization, in order to “restore, remodel, and maintain the historic theater in a manner consistent with its original design and historical aesthetic.”
Chris and his team are excited to welcome back the community to the movies in a safe and engaging environment. However, an extensive restoration must be undertaken, which will include repairs to the main auditorium, an expansion of the concession and lobby areas, as well as technical upgrades.
This week, on the theatre’s 82nd birthday, they are turning to the community to get started. They have set up a GoFundMe and the current goal will allow the team to rebuild both the iconic Beach Theatre marquee, as well as the stage which will bring live music, special discussions, and other live events to the theater.
Chris says on the GoFundMe, “A lot can happen in eighty years. Through world wars, hurricanes, economic downturns, and public health disasters, our cinema has stood strong. We are confident that, with your help, we can turn the Beach Theatre into a beautiful, sophisticated, and enduring cinematic landmark, recognized not only in our area but far beyond, as a premiere showcase of talent from around the world—and from our own backyard.”
To view the GoFundMe please visit:https://gf.me/v/c/2rvp/support-the-restoration-of-the-beach-theatre
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