Hollywood Theatre Hits Goal of Seat Campaign: Installation Starts January 6!

On November 4, 2011 the Hollywood Theatre rolled out an aggressive “ergonomic stimulus” package called “Creature Comforts” with the goal of raising $30,000 to install 600 seats donated from Regal Cinemas.  Just two months later, the theatre has raised $31,858 and installation of the donated seats starts this Friday, January 6, 2012. A Happy New Year indeed for the backsides of Hollywood Theatre patrons!

The theatre reached their goal even quicker than they imagined, with the community pouring forth with support. Most of the funds raised came from $50 and $100 donations from individuals, and included a sizeable gift from The Faerie Godmother Fund (founded by Vikki Mee), in honor of the Portland Oregon Women’s Film Festival (POW Fest) and Women in Film–Portland (wif-pdx) as well as all women in film and media.

The Hollywood Theatre is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to entertain, inspire, educate and connect the community through the art of film while preserving a historic Portland landmark. The non-profit also owns the building that houses the iconic theatre.  This ergonomic stimulus package is one part of a much larger effort to improve and renovate the Hollywood Theatre as a major venue in the Portland Area.  “Our members and patrons have told us that they place a high priority on the theatre itself as not only a historic landmark, but as a vibrant cultural venue for the neighborhood and the city,” says Whyte.  “Our patrons are telling us that caring for the building itself should be one of our highest priorities.”

“We wish to sincerely thank everyone who donated to this campaign. The quick and generous support has given us more confidence in our mission and in understanding the importance of this building to the Portland community,” continues Whyte. “We have already started other improvements to the building, working to make it more comfortable and more beautiful for our patrons to enjoy. We will be working on several projects over the coming years to continue to renew this wonderful theatre, as we also continue to enhance and expand our programming and our service to the community.”