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Much has already been accomplished since a 501(c)3 was established to maintain the Keith, said Bob Plymale. Along with the new sign out front, a nearly $1 million roof has been completed, as well as a new fly system for the stage and updates to the restrooms to make them fully accessible.
Infrastructure such as electrical work, and heating and cooling updates are now necessary.
"We're also doing the renovation in the front, including an office and an area that can handle catering better," Plymale said.
"We are applying for foundation monies and grants and tax credits and the whole nine yards," Heaberlin said. "It's a national treasure, and we're trying to do it justice and return it to its natural splendor."
Plymale said the next focus will be the front of the theater, restoring it to back to 1928 as well as adding a ticket office and space to better accommodate catering. The marquee will also be restored to its original state.
Plymale said it may take several years to finish the restorations, but the theater is finally financially able to complete big projects in rational phases.
"It's one of the key areas to bring people to downtown Huntington," Plymale said. "And that's economic development."
The Keith-Albee is the only remaining Thomas Lamb architecture left in the world in its original state. Lamb is one of the most noted designers of theaters and cinemas in the 20th century, including the original Madison Square Garden in New York City.
The Keith is turning 90 this year. There are plans to establish an endowment in order to try and have all renovations done in the next 10 years. That will be great to see!
The Keith is mostly for live theater now. They do occasionally do special showings of movies there and it also hosts the Spring and Fall International Film Festivals.
Ok don't tell them I have two years of theater and video school several internships and later made the leather costumes parts and being retired have nothing to do
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