Group Looking To Save Historic Robbinsdale Theater From Demolition
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A local group is working to try and keep an historic theater from being torn down.
The owners of the historic Terrace Theatre in Robbinsdale are indicating the building is for sale.
When it opened in 1951, the Terrace was one of the most luxurious theaters in the nation, with a fireplace, crystal chandeliers and even soundproof crying rooms where you could bring a baby and still watch the movie.
It closed more than a decade ago, and fans fear it could be demolished.
On France Avenue North, the shell of the Terrace Theatre still towers. David Leonhardt is the chair and founder of the group "Save the Historic Terrace Theatre."
"From all around the area, you could see the Terrace lit up," Leonhardt said.
Leonhardt's passion is partly personal, as he and wife met when they both worked there.
"My wife was a cashier," he said. "I started as an usher, and was a projectionist, and was as assistant manager before I left."
The group has not been able to access the inside of the building and don't know what condition the interior is in. The estimated cost of refurbishing is $3-$5 million, but possibly even more.
The group is trying to get the theater on a government register of historic places, which could help to qualify for grants. They're also considering an online fundraising campaign.
Robbinsdale's Mayor Regan Murphy says using taxpayer money is not an option.
"The city of Robbinsdale is small, and our budget isn't big," Mayor Murphy said.
Like so many here, the Mayor says he still would like to see the Terrace saved.
"This is where me and my buddies mastered the art of the yawn and the arm around the little ladies," he said. "This is where we hung out. There are a lot of good memories here."
WCCO was unable to reach anyone at the Brixmor Group -- the New York-based property firm that owns the Terrace.
