Vogue Theater

The Vogue Theater was built by James Lane and opened as the Lane Theater. I don't know what year the name was changed to the Vogue Theater. Cinematour lists a Cle Elum Theater at this same address.

Was recently purchased by someone in Cle Elum who wants to restore it - we'll see, it's in rough shape. There is no usable equipment left inside, even the seats are wood with no upholstery. Major crack in a roof beam or truss due to heavy snows in 1996-1977. Restrooms are gone, they were converted to small storefronts that are rented out. There is a 800 sq ft apartment upstairs behind the projection room. Originally had 112 seats in the balcony, and about 500 on the main floor. Has a legitimate stage and orchestra pit, but very small, and no dressing room - maybe a dressing closet. Was noted for having an "oval" layout in the auditorium. Will post a photo or two when that feature is back up and running. The latest buyer seems to have more drive to get it done that the last few, but it will be a big challenge.

This is a photo of the Vogue Theater building.

The Vogue Theatre at 210 Pennsylvania Avenue in Cle Elum, Washington is on its way to a new life.
History:
*1909 - The Rose Theatre is built by James Lane; admission is ten cents to enjoy vaudeville performances and silent movies.
*1918 - The Rose Theatre comes to a fiery end after a blaze erupts in debris near the building, causing the famous fire that destroyed most of Cle Elum.
*1923 - The Lane Theatre is built on the same location. Constructed of brick, with a seating capacity of 780, it is heralded as the last word in comfort, convenience, and safety.
*1929 - Talking pictures, or "Vibraphone" and "Movie Tone," are installed at a cost of $10,000. Cle Elum's first 100% talking picture debut is "Wolf of Wall Street."
*1938 - The Lane is purchased and remodeled by Harry Ulsh, becoming the first theater in the Northwest to feature fluorescent and neon lighting. The theater's name is changed to "Vogue," reflecting its ultra-modern features.
*1947 - Fred Estelman purchases the Vogue and installs the latest in sound equipment.
*1954 - "Cinemascope" is installed, adding depth and width to the films.
*Late 60s to mid-70s - Coal mines close, population declines, economy plummets. The Vogue closes and essentially sits empty for the better part of thirty years.

Current Events:
*2007 - Larry and Rosemary Putnam purchase the Vogue and begin the process of putting together a new 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to renovating the grand old theatre.
*2008 - Board of directors in place, non-profit status obtained, the Vogue Theatre Associates (VTA) are now getting the paperwork in order to transfer ownership of the building from the Putnams to the VTA. Ward Design Group of Seattle is working on the renovation designs with art deco elements and state-of-the-art equipment.

The Future:
The Vogue Theatre will serve the Upper Kittitas Valley and the Central Washington region and provide myriad opportunities for community members, both young and old, to enjoy and to learn from theatre and the performing arts.

Here is the Vogue in 1980.

1984 Photo