I bought an old theater. Not sure what crazy pills I had taken on the day I agreed to it. I thought it would be fun. Have a stage, do plays, show movies, serve food and drink – all will be good.
I went to the League of Historic American Theaters conference (who knew such an organization existed??) in July. I found out that serving food was not on ANYONE’S agenda. “Don’t do it! Send them somewhere else to eat! Focus on what you know!” Well – we know food not theater. I am still determined to do food.
I explore the theater. It keeps getting bigger! More space here, more space there. No projector. No problem – I need new equipment anyway. No dressing rooms – hhhmm, maybe I will start with just movies. No curtain – OK, I can deal with that. So, I invite in a consultant to help me see what I have gotten into. He says I have pretty much a clean slate. You can do anything you want. Not sure that was a whole lot of help, but I like him and he will help to make sure we get everything we need to do what we want to do.
I am still fairly chipper. Nothing too dramatic so far to stop me. Now I find an architect. He is a great guy. His partner has experience with another old theater. He grew up in this town as well so he remembers the Texan from when we were kids. Problem is, he knows about the real obstacles. Structure falling down around us? Asbestos? City rules? Permits? Historic rules? Main Street council?
I need all those answers before I can even start to think about food! OK.. stay tuned… structure and asbestos are next.
jointhedventure 
I’m really glad you bought the theater. I had considered it with some of the same ideas yall have. Just never put it into process. I like the dinner and movie/theater. Kat and I enjoy Studio Movie Grill in Dallas and think it could be duplicated on a smaller scale. I happened to talk to the director or Main Street and he said they had funds for facade refurbishment, so that might be something you might want to explore. Anyway, just wanted to wish you good luck on this project, and look forward to seeing it open!
Howard
Thanks all! Howard, I will look into that. I have a name of someone who is supposed to be the best. I want to get the neon back on! Barbara
Congratulations Barb! What a challenge you have taken on! Best of luck & can’t wait!!!
You bought a theater? How awesome is that! Good luck with it and your blog. I’m signing up for notifications of new posts. 🙂
Hi Barb, I found you. I love food, I love historic old buildings, and I love the theater. So of course I love the idea of what you are doing with the Texan. I’m going to live vicariously through you as you journey through this new adventure, so I expect you to keep us all updated as you conquer each new hurdle. Pictures of the process would be fun to see too. I’m wishing you strength to endure the process. I have a feeling it’s going to be long, but ultimately fulfilling!
Hugs, Kati
EXCELLENT! The Texan has been a wasted GEM for way too long! Bring her back to l
Best of luck-you sure have taken on a giant project
It really is a giant project. It is only manageablefor me by looking at each little step instead of the whole things at once AND by thinking abou tthe fun at the other end.
This is very exciting for downtown Greenville. I will definitely be a patron!
Thanks! Looking forward to serving and entertaining eveyone!
You might want to check out the Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse in Arlington, Virginia. It serves beer and food and has been in business for 25 years.
Thanks, Karen. Sounds like a fun field trip.