History of the Palace Theatre in Marion, Ohio
- The Palace Theatre was designed in 1928 by American architect John Eberson. Eberson was famous for designing dozens of theaters throughout the U.S. and abroad. It was constructed during the so-called "Roaring Twenties," a period of American history when live venues were springing up everywhere to meet the increased demand for entertainment. The Palace Theatre was a typical facility for its time and featured live shows and silent films.
- The outside of the theater has a traditional marquee and vertical lighted sign. The inside was designed in a Moorish architectural style. The style is characterized with a variety of arches, intricate tile and expansive courtyards. The ceiling is recessed beyond the lancet arches that top the interior walls, which makes the dark blue ceiling look like a night sky. Visitors are given the impression they are sitting within a large outdoor courtyard.
- At the time of its construction the theater had built in air-conditioning. It was an expensive unit that operated until 1998. An enormous Page organ was also installed for opening night and it lasted until the early 70s. The theater also featured a smoke machine that created clouds in the ceiling's night sky, a massive internal ramp that allowed cars to drive onstage, and lifelike stuffed birds that were hidden amongst the walls and stage.
- Lack of funding and a laundry list of repairs almost killed the theater in the 1970s, but contributions from several private donors fueled a renovation campaign in 1976. A new Wurlitzer pipe organ was brought in the replace the Page, which was sold to help defray the costs of mounting bills. The renovation was a success and soon the theater began to book new shows.
- The Palace Theatre in 2010 is not only a showcase for live arts, but a community learning center. When the theater was built it had several additional rooms and office spaces adjoined in the hope of attracting a retail market. These rooms are used by the community for a variety of special events and learning programs. The building is also host to children's camps and other activities that promote arts and entertainment.
