Historic Palace Theatre receives major gift from Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation for renovation efforts

The Historic Palace Theatre has received a $300,000 grant from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation in support of its “Act II – A Grand Restoration” renovation project. This gift will support the Palace’s larger $2.8 million “Act II” project, which is already underway, with renovations to the outer lobby, and restoration and repairs to interior plaster completed last October.

Plans for additional work scheduled to begin this summer includes: new and additional seating; additional interior plaster repair; a new stage rigging system; an upgraded concession and bar area; an expanded orchestra pit; and a new merchandise display area. The goal of this project is to provide patrons and performers the modern comforts they require, attract more events and visitors to Lockport's downtown, establish new revenue sources, and preserve the historic theater for future generations to enjoy.

“At the Historic Palace Theatre, we are dedicated to serving the community in every way that we can. The Palace is the place in Lockport where young parents take their children to see quality productions like ‘The Little Mermaid’ at a family-friendly price, and where grandparents watch their grandchildren's dance recitals. It is where children go to theater school to gain confidence and learn the fundamentals of a working theater, while often gaining a lifelong appreciation of the arts in the process,” said Christopher Parada, executive director of the Historic Palace Theatre. “This generous gift from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation brings us one step closer to achieving our goal of re-establishing the Palace as a high-quality venue in WNY’s thriving theater and performance community, while continuing to be a positive influence on local families and the community.”

The Historic Palace Theatre is located in the heart of downtown Lockport. Built in 1925 by Charles Dickenson, the proscenium arch-style space is noted as a gem of the city. The theater is owned and operated by a nonprofit organization, Historic Palace Inc. For more information, call the Palace Theatre at 716-438-1130 or visit www.lockportpalacetheatre.org.