Oregon’s rural communities have not received the attention and resources of larger metro areas and have struggled in shifting economic times to keep their Main Streets vibrant. Historic theaters at the heart of these communities provide a unique gathering place that anchors downtown, offering entertainment, renewed nightlife, and participation in cultural events. Restore Oregon’s work with historic theater owners and operators over the last five years has shown that revival of these community cornerstones is often the catalyst for a much larger renaissance. By placing rural historic theaters on the 2020 List of Endangered Places, Restore Oregon is able to renew its focus on bringing the economic and social benefits of theater rehabilitation to small towns across Oregon.
