It is the end of an era the Historic State Theatre of Boyertown.
A landmark in Boyertown since 1912, the theater closed its doors for the last time on Saturday, March 7, following the theater’s “Songs of Ireland” concert.
According to a statement posted on the State Theatre’s website, the property, at 61 N. Reading Ave. is currently for sale.
Owner Kevin Rhude purchased the property in October 2008. As the movie industry has converted to digital, theaters like the State have been forced to upgrade their equipment or close. Rhude had attempted to raise the $100,000 he said it would take to complete the conversion.
“In an effort to sustain the theatre, many live performances such as a battle of the bands, weekly concerts, and comedians were offered,” the statement continued.
In December, Rhude announced the theater would stop showing movies, and would instead focus on live entertainment. The last movie shown was the holiday classic “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
“I looked forward to greeting each of you every evening when you came to watch the movies and shows, and enjoyed when you shared your memories of our community’s historic landmark with me. I appreciated the opportunity to partner with other area business owners to promote local events and activities in our great Boyertown community,” the statement continued.
A call to Rhude has not been returned.
Patricia Loder, borough manager, told the Boyertown Times’ sister paper The Mercury she was unaware of the theater’s closing.
The theater first opened in 1912 as the Lyric, according to historical information on the website. In 1934, it was renamed the State. Several subsequent owners carried out renovations to the theatre. After purchasing the location in 2008, Rhude, renamed the theater the “State Theatre of Boyertown.” In addition to movies, Rhude added live performances including concerts, plays, dance performances, musical productions and community events.
