High Hopes for Park Theater in Avon
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- Written by Josh Williams
AVON — First dates, first holding hands, first kisses, and first screams at a scary movie are just a sliver of the cherished memories at the Park Theater in Avon that is for sale. A movement to bring the theater back as a community center is still possible if a price can be agreed upon.
Paul Brown is bringing his impeccable credentials of revitalizing old movie theaters to Avon and has been spearheading the effort for over a year. The issue is finding a price point that makes it's revitalization feasible. The seller, Clark Rittersbach stated that all the seats could be put back into the theater and the film projector is ready to go.
"I've been talking to the owner and village officials, if we can find a reasonable price we might be able to move on," said Brown.
According to real estate records the theater was sold for $72,500 five years ago.
"I hope the right people buy it and it can become a movie theater again," said Rittersbach, who currently has the theater seats pulled out and antique cars inside.
Brown, who lives in Livonia, helped lead the revitalization of the Smith Opera House in Geneva.
"Right now there is just a movie screen." said Brown. "There is plenty of space for a stage and a curtain for live performances."
Brown stated that he has talked to community leaders but at this point they are reluctant to get involved with the current asking price and is hoping that Rittersbach will come down on the amount. Until then his campaign for a community theater is on hold.
