So for those who state that it is not a 100% restoration, keep in mind the theatre had been vacant for years, and it was in extreme disrepair. Had not Jehovah’s Witnesses stepped in to restore it, it would have no doubt been demolished. I know individuals who volunteered their time to help restore this magnificent theatre, and I remember hearing horror stories of the conditions, including water damage and rats! In addition, they had to remove many, many coats (over ten) of paint on the original brass doors. The painstaking work they had to undergo is incredible. Among the many stories I have heard is that the original chandeliers, many which were damaged and broken, had to be restored, so the volunteers literally had to study old books on the lighting, bulbs, etc. for these historic pieces, so they could restore and replicate them.
It looks like an Italian Villa when you walk in the auditiorium; the lobby itself is incredible. The clouds and stars that appear as the lights are turned off are breathtaking. I loved the brass doors and original Ticket Booth as I peered inside to look!
The volunteers had certain guidelines per the New Jersey Historical Society; namely, that things had to be restored to their original appearance, generally speaking. I do know they found some historical treasures during their renovation, such as finding the lovely tapestry that appears on the wall on the bottom floor as you enter the restrooms, behind a wall when it was knocked down! I am sure there are many more interesting experiences.
I also remember the tiny, ornate, illuminated lights on each seat at the end of each row, which was designed originally for those entering the theatre late, in the dark, so they can find their seats. I had photos of these seats, as well as the rest of the theatre, that I had taken many years ago, but unfortunately they are gone :(
It is remarkable what Jehovah’s Witnesses have done to restore such an historical masterpiece. It is no wonder they received recognition and applause from the New Jersey Historical Society for their magnificent contribution to this historic theatre.
I encourage all of you to take the tour; you will be amazed and delighted!
As someone who has attended services at this theatre for many years, I can tell you that it is a sight to behold.
A nice link to a couple of small photos of the outside of the theatre is this:
View link
So for those who state that it is not a 100% restoration, keep in mind the theatre had been vacant for years, and it was in extreme disrepair. Had not Jehovah’s Witnesses stepped in to restore it, it would have no doubt been demolished. I know individuals who volunteered their time to help restore this magnificent theatre, and I remember hearing horror stories of the conditions, including water damage and rats! In addition, they had to remove many, many coats (over ten) of paint on the original brass doors. The painstaking work they had to undergo is incredible. Among the many stories I have heard is that the original chandeliers, many which were damaged and broken, had to be restored, so the volunteers literally had to study old books on the lighting, bulbs, etc. for these historic pieces, so they could restore and replicate them.
It looks like an Italian Villa when you walk in the auditiorium; the lobby itself is incredible. The clouds and stars that appear as the lights are turned off are breathtaking. I loved the brass doors and original Ticket Booth as I peered inside to look!
The volunteers had certain guidelines per the New Jersey Historical Society; namely, that things had to be restored to their original appearance, generally speaking. I do know they found some historical treasures during their renovation, such as finding the lovely tapestry that appears on the wall on the bottom floor as you enter the restrooms, behind a wall when it was knocked down! I am sure there are many more interesting experiences.
I also remember the tiny, ornate, illuminated lights on each seat at the end of each row, which was designed originally for those entering the theatre late, in the dark, so they can find their seats. I had photos of these seats, as well as the rest of the theatre, that I had taken many years ago, but unfortunately they are gone :(
It is remarkable what Jehovah’s Witnesses have done to restore such an historical masterpiece. It is no wonder they received recognition and applause from the New Jersey Historical Society for their magnificent contribution to this historic theatre.
I encourage all of you to take the tour; you will be amazed and delighted!