Ellen Perrault
The City of San Bernardino historic California Theater temporarily closed on June 2 as the facility undergoes an $6.8 million renovation. The 1,700-seat theater, which is home to the San Bernardino Symphony, concerts, and national touring performances of Broadway productions, is expected to reopen in early October.
“The California Theater is well known as a major landmark for visitors coming to Downtown San Bernardino.” said Deputy Director of Public Works, Azzam Jabsheh in a press release. “The upgrades being planned are a great investment for the City.”
The theater, built in 1928, is on the National Register of Historic Places and earlier this year was named “Best Performing Arts Venue” by Inland Empire Magazine.
The planned improvements will not only enhance the theater-going experience for attendees, it will also provide the necessary and warranted upgrades to the 97-year-old building.
Improvements will include upgrades to the theatrical sound system, lighting, curtain, and controls. The heating and air conditioning will also be replaced. In addition, new carpet will be installed, the interior and exterior of the facility will be painted. In addition to ensuring ADA compliance, architectural finishes and repairs will be completed, the auditorium floor will be refinished and upgrades will be made to the theater’s front facade.