Efforts are being made to breathe new life into the Laurel Little Theatre, enhancing the experience for performers and audiences alike. Originally built in 1927, the venue was transformed into a theatre during the early 1970s and holds a significant place in local cultural history.
Board President Christy Liverett detailed the theatre’s past, noting that it was the last of several theaters that once operated in the area, including the Arabian and Strand movie theatres. To support its revitalization, a fundraiser called the “Raise the Roof Capital Campaign” was initiated in 2008, aiming to expand the facility onto a site where the old Pinehurst Hotel used to be. “The hotel shared a wall with the theatre and had a door enabling patrons to access the theatre directly,” Liverett explained.
In addition to accommodating new performances, the theatre requires upgrades in several areas, such as storage, dressing rooms, and bathrooms, which are still equipped with the original plumbing from when the building was first constructed.
Liverett emphasized the potential the theatre has for cultural enrichment in the community, stating, “We could bring in concerts, ballet, drum circles, and a variety of cultural acts and performances, allowing this venue to be enjoyed by many beyond just those in Laurel.”
Currently, the Laurel Little Theatre has achieved 25 percent of its financial goal for the project, and donations are encouraged to help advance this exciting initiative.
In summary, the revitalization of the Laurel Little Theatre is not only about preserving a historic building but also about expanding its role as a vibrant cultural hub for the community. With ongoing support, the theatre can enhance its facilities and attract a wider range of performances, fostering a greater appreciation for the arts among residents and visitors alike. This project represents hope for the local arts scene, promising new experiences for all who enter.