The historic Capitol Theater at 117-123 Mill Street was opened in 1936 and for many years the 1,000 seat venue offered first-run movies, live music, and nationally-known acts. For the last 30 years, the theater has been in disuse and the building, while well-preserved, has only been partially occupied during that time.

 

To add vibrancy to our downtown, the DBA has begun the process of re-imagining 21st century uses for the largest building in downtown Danville. To aid its efforts, the DBA was awarded a $10,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and a $8,000 grant from the Appell Preservation Fund to complete an initial study into the feasibility of acquiring, renovating, and operating a community arts and culture center. Arts leaders and arts development experts are engaging the community to determine their wishes and desires.

The DBA’s Economic Restructuring Committee is providing project oversight to ensure any new arts and culture center in Danville complements our existing assets, contributes to the vibrancy of our downtown, and does not unduly strain our infrastructure.

 

The initial study and planning phase should be completed by late 2016.