Have you noticed something is missing from the Ambler Theater?
The beginning of the end
Well, not for long. As of Wednesday April 1st Ambler Theater will have a new marquee, or canopy as it is accurately called. After 80 years the theater’s original canopy had taken a beating, I’m talking Fight Club kind of beating. I’m sure in recent years you’ve passed by the theater, perhaps slowed to see what’s playing, or just to take in the beautiful renovation and- gasp!- the marquee has taken another hit! Repair after repair has been done, but its time to say goodbye finally came last month.
The damage became rampant once the theater reopened in 2003. When originally built in 1928 the canopy covered only the sidewalk. About 50 years later the borough designed a cut-out in the sidewalk in front of the theater to allow the addition of a turning lane. The spaces in the cut-out, now under the canopy, were to be used for parking. In 2003 at the newly reopened theaters request the borough agreed to remove the parking spaces so the space could be used as a drop-off spot for patrons. With these spaces now open daily, large delivery trucks saw this as prime real estate for their “drop-offs”. Unfortunately many of the drivers didn’t bother to check the overhead clearance, hence 6 major damages and countless minors since 2003.
I feel so naked
To avoid future damage the new canopy has been designed shorter than the original. This is the only change in design from the original. The new canopy is historically accurate and was done to match the original from 1928. It is made of aluminum and will last for generations to come. In addition to the canopy; the original terra-cotta poster cases will be uncovered, the facade’s terra-cotta tiles restored, and new terra-cotta entrance doors will be installed, all to match the 1928 originals.
The theater received a grant from the Pennsylvania Historic and Museum Commission to help accomplish the work. The theater is a non-profit community based orginization supported by individuals like you and me. If you are not already a member of Ambler Theater, or you have never enjoyed this quaint historic landmark visit the theater at www.amblertheater.org for more information. See you at the movies!
What a beaut!