The historic Clay Theater, which has been closed since January 2020, is set for revitalization under the direction of Ted Gerike, the founder of Los Angeles’ Now Instant Image Hall, who has been appointed as creative director. His vision for the theater includes filmmaker talks and classic film screenings, aiming to turn the 112-year-old venue into a vibrant cultural hub once again.
Renovation plans for the Clay Theater are set to be presented to the city this year. When completed, the theater will accommodate 200 guests and host over 500 screenings annually, a significant increase from its past operations. Despite facing challenges, including six years of losses prior to its closure, there is a sense of hopeful optimism as the community looks forward to the return of this iconic establishment.
Mehta’s ambitious revitalization project for the Upper Fillmore neighborhood involves a significant capital investment of $100 million, which includes the purchase of approximately eight buildings. However, this endeavor has not been without controversy. In the past year, local small business owners expressed concerns about potential displacement due to the changes, leading to a community rally in support of them. While some tenants have left, including a Starbucks and a sushi restaurant, the Middle Eastern eatery La Mediterranee has successfully extended its lease, demonstrating some resilience amid the changes.
The process of restoring the Clay Theater is expected to be extensive, with renovations requiring considerable time, as noted by Cody Allen, executive director of the Upper Fillmore Revitalization Project. With a focus on both cultural engagement and neighborhood improvement, the revival of the Clay Theater could mark a new chapter for the community, transforming past hardships into a future filled with artistic opportunities.