Plans are being developed to enhance the Laurel Little Theatre, aiming to provide a richer experience for performers and audiences alike. Originally built in 1927, the structure became a theatre in the early 1970s.
According to Board President Christy Liverett, there once were several theatres in Laurel, including the Arabian and the Strand, but the Laurel Little Theatre is the most recently closed. The decision was made to focus efforts on revitalizing this facility.
In 2008, a fundraising initiative named “Raise the Roof Capital Campaign” emerged, targeting the development of a new addition on the building’s south side, where the former Pinehurst Hotel once operated. “The hotel shared a wall with the theatre, and it had a door that hotel patrons could enter through,” Liverett explained.
In addition to the new space, the theatre has recognized the need to refresh several areas of the building, including storage, dressing rooms, and restrooms, given that the plumbing is original to the structure.
To keep the stage active and attract visitors, the theatre is reviving its fundraising efforts. Liverett expressed enthusiasm for the potential activities that could be brought to the venue, such as concerts, ballet performances, and cultural events. She emphasized the vision of the theatre serving a broader audience, extending beyond just the local community.
Currently, the Laurel Little Theatre has reached 25 percent of its fundraising goal for the revitalization project.
This initiative not only aims to preserve a cherished local landmark but also seeks to enrich the cultural landscape of Laurel, providing greater entertainment options for residents and visitors alike.
By supporting this revitalization, the community can look forward to a vibrant platform for diverse performances and engaging cultural experiences for years to come.