The historic Marion Palace Theatre will participate in Ohio Open Doors on Monday, September 12, 2016. The theatre will be open to the public that day from 10am to 3pm. Guided tours, which include a live organ concert on the theatre’s Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, will begin at 10am and 2pm.
This event is free.
Brought to you by the Ohio History Connection, Ohio Open Doors is a statewide effort where building and landmark sponsors open their doors to the public for special tours and programs. The public is invited to join in honoring the history, design and stories of the Marion Palace Theatre as they celebrate the 50th anniversary of the National Historic Preservation Act.
“The Marion Palace Theatre located in downtown Marion, Ohio was a phenomenon in its early years and remains a wonder yet today,” said Bev Ford, Palace Theatre executive director. “As lights are lowered and stars “come out” amidst clouds lazily rolling across the ceiling painted as a midnight blue sky, audiences are transported to another place and time.”
Constructed by theatre architect John Eberson in 1928, the historic entertainment venue is one of nearly 200 atmospheric theatres Eberson built in the 1920s. Today, only 16 of these treasures (including the Marion Palace) remain operational in the U.S.
“Ohio Open Doors showcases the stories of important landmarks right in our backyard,” says Burt Logan, Executive Director and CEO of the Ohio History Connection. “The 50th anniversary of the National Historic Preservation Act is the perfect time to highlight the history and the uniqueness of Ohio’s most treasured places.”
Established in 1966, the National Historic Preservation Act has been instrumental in preserving the historic fabric of our cities and neighborhoods. Logan said it has transformed the face of communities from coast to coast, establishing the legal framework and incentives to preserve historic buildings, landscapes and archaeology. The act drives economic revitalization by attracting investment, supporting small business, stabilizing neighborhoods and creating jobs, said Logan.
For more information, visit ohiohistory.org, www.marionpalace.org or call the Palace Theatre at (740) 383-2101.
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